1989 Isuzu Amigo problems

General information about Isuzu-Amigo
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Isuzu MU is a mid-size SUV which was produced by Japan-based manufacturer Isuzu from 1989 to 2004.

The three-door MU was introduced in 1989, followed in 1990 by the five-door version called Isuzu MU Wizard. Production of these first generation models ceased in 1998 to be replaced by a second generation. This time, the five-door version dropped the "MU" prefix, to become the Isuzu Wizard. The acronym "MU" is short for "Mysterious Utility". Isuzu manufactured several variations to the MU and its derivates for sale in other countries.

The short-wheelbase (three-door) version was sold as the Isuzu MU and Honda Jazz in Japan, with the names Isuzu Amigo and later Isuzu Rodeo Sport used in the United States. Throughout continental Europe, the three-door was called Opel Frontera Sport, with the Vauxhall Frontera Sport title used in the United Kingdom, and Holden Frontera Sport in Australia.

The long-wheelbase (five-door) version was available as the Isuzu Wizard in Japan, and in North America as Isuzu Rodeo and the Honda Passport. Opel, Vauxhall, and Holden each also sold rebadged versions of the five-door as the Opel Frontera, Vauxhall Frontera, and Holden Frontera. It was also sold as the Chevrolet Frontera in Egypt, the Isuzu Cameo and Isuzu Vega in Thailand, the Isuzu Frontier in South Africa, and as the Chevrolet Rodeo in Ecuador, Colombia and Bolivia.

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Common 1989 Isuzu Amigo problems

The Isuzu Amigo, produced between 1989 and 2000, is known for its compact size and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on owner complaints:

Check Engine Light and Erratic Fuel Gauge Operation:
One of the most common problems reported by Isuzu Amigo owners is the check engine light coming on, often accompanied by erratic fuel gauge operation. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, wiring issues, or problems with the fuel system. In some cases, the check engine light may be triggered by a relatively minor issue, such as a loose gas cap. However, it can also indicate more serious problems, such as engine misfires or issues with the catalytic converter.
Engine Performance Issues:
Isuzu Amigo owners have also reported a range of engine performance issues, including difficulty starting, stalling, and poor acceleration. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the fuel system, ignition system, or engine components. In some cases, these issues may be related to the vehicle's age and mileage, as well as maintenance history.
Transmission Problems:
Transmission problems are also common in the Isuzu Amigo, particularly in models equipped with automatic transmissions. Owners have reported issues such as slipping, hesitation, and difficulty shifting. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged transmission components, low transmission fluid levels, or issues with the vehicle's computer system.
Suspension and Steering Issues:
Suspension and steering issues are also common in the Isuzu Amigo. Owners have reported problems such as excessive play in the steering, difficulty steering at low speeds, and issues with the vehicle's suspension components. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged suspension components, issues with the vehicle's alignment, or problems with the power steering system.
Electrical Issues:
Isuzu Amigo owners have also reported a range of electrical issues, including problems with the vehicle's lighting system, power windows, and other electrical components. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the vehicle's wiring, blown fuses, or problems with the vehicle's computer system.
Brake Problems:
Brake problems are also common in the Isuzu Amigo, particularly in models with higher mileage. Owners have reported issues such as brake fade, squeaking or grinding noises, and difficulty stopping. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged brake components, low brake fluid levels, or issues with the vehicle's brake system.
Interior and Exterior Issues:
Isuzu Amigo owners have also reported a range of interior and exterior issues, including problems with the vehicle's upholstery, trim, and body panels. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and issues with the vehicle's paint or coating.
Cooling System Issues:
Cooling system issues are also common in the Isuzu Amigo, particularly in models with higher mileage. Owners have reported issues such as overheating, leaks, and problems with the vehicle's radiator or cooling fans. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged cooling system components, low coolant levels, or issues with the vehicle's thermostat or water pump.
Exhaust System Issues:
Exhaust system issues are also common in the Isuzu Amigo, particularly in models with higher mileage. Owners have reported issues such as excessive noise, leaks, and problems with the vehicle's catalytic converter or muffler. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and issues with the vehicle's exhaust components.
Fuel System Issues:
Fuel system issues are also common in the Isuzu Amigo, particularly in models with higher mileage. Owners have reported issues such as fuel leaks, problems with the vehicle's fuel pump or injectors, and issues with the vehicle's fuel filter or lines. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and issues with the vehicle's fuel system components.

Overall, the Isuzu Amigo is a versatile and capable vehicle that has been popular with owners for its compact size and off-road capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its share of common problems. Owners should be aware of these issues and take steps to maintain their vehicles properly to avoid costly repairs and downtime.

When did they stop making Isuzu Amigo?

1994

The Isuzu Amigo was made between 1989 and 1994, and again between 1998 and 2000. From 2001 to 2003 it was sold as the Isuzu Rodeo Sport.

Why did they stop making Isuzu?

On 30 January 2008, Isuzu announced its complete withdrawal from the US market, effective 31 January 2009. It would continue to provide support and parts. The decision was due to lack of sales. Some of the lack of sales was blamed on consumer experiences with low quality engines and service.

Why did Isuzu stop making cars?

On January 31, 2009, Isuzu finalized its complete withdrawal from the US market. The decision was due to lack of sales. It would continue to provide support and parts. Some diesel engines are still being manufactured in the US.

Is Isuzu better than Toyota?

The dmax has a bigger engine though Toyota Hilux has more torque. Interestingly ,both vehicles have great towing capacities which are braked. The Isuzu dmax has better fuel economy compared to the Hilux ,the dmax also has a better service interval than the Hilux.So both vehicles will serve any purpose required of them.

1989 Isuzu Amigo car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Isuzu Amigo problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Isuzu Amigo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Isuzu Amigo complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Isuzu Amigo.

1995-04-13

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-11-04
Number Of Injuries: 2
Crash: 1
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: JEEP SLIDE ON ICE AND WENT DOWN AN EMBANKMENT THE ROLL BAR WAS DEFECTIVE. TT

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1989 Isuzu Amigo recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Isuzu Amigo.

1993-07-22

Manufacturer: REESE PRODUCTS, INC
Components: TRAILER HITCHES
Summary: THE WELD ON THE RECEIVER UNIT OF THE TRAILER HITCH CAN BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE FAILURE OCCURS, THE TRAILER CAN SEPARATE FROM THETOWING VEHICLE, AND COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: REPLACE THE TRAILER HITCH.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Isuzu Amigo problems:

Known Rodeo problems. | Isuzu SUV Forum

https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/known-rodeo-problems.78408/

Aug 10, 2014 ... The biggest issue was that the early aluminum heads were prone to cracking but most have been replaced by now. Stay away from the 1-3 casting ...

1989 Isuzu Amigo Reviews - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/isuzu/amigo/1989/

Sep 12, 2011 ... Fun SUV, way better than a Jeep! Faults: At 120,000, the differential seized up. It was spend 4 grand or get another car. Sad, sad ...

Isuzu Amigo Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/isuzu/amigo

Top Isuzu Amigo Problems · Check Engine Light and Erratic Fuel Gauge Operation · Failed O-rings Can Cause Accumulator Cover to Leak on Automatic Transmissions · AC ...

Isuzu Pickup Common Problelm | Isuzu SUV Forum

https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/isuzu-pickup-common-problelm.8947/

Sep 30, 2006 ... Since or hopefully Isuzu learned from the previous year and fixed all the problem. Also what do you think if I drop a 3.2l from a 99 Rodeo?