2000 Isuzu Amigo problems
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 2000 Isuzu Amigo problems
The Isuzu Amigo 2000 has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and airbag systems.
- Suspension Corrosion: Isuzu has recalled about 11,000 Amigo and Rodeo Sport trucks due to a corrosion problem with the rear suspension. The salt used on roads in certain states can cause the forward mounting point bracket for the rear suspension to rust and break, which could cause handling problems and possibly a crash.
- Airbag Problems: The Japanese automaker has issued a recall for certain 2000 Isuzu Rodeo models due to faulty airbag modules. The passenger-side airbag modules on certain sports utility vehicles were manufactured and shipped without check valve pins, which could lead to insufficient inflation in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury or death to occupants seated on the passenger side.
- Transmission Problems: The automatic transmission in the Isuzu Amigo 2000 has been known to slip, making it difficult to shift gears and causing the vehicle to rev up high before moving. This issue can be addressed by replacing the transmission filter and fluid, as well as the shift solenoids.
- Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance (P0336): This issue is common in the Isuzu Amigo 2000, causing the engine to crank but not start, or to sputter and die immediately. This problem can be caused by a broken wire between the valve cover and EGR valve, or by the cams being 180° off. The issue can be diagnosed by checking the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, and wiring harnesses for continuity and proper connections.
In summary, the Isuzu Amigo 2000 has several common problems that can affect its engine, transmission, airbags, and suspension. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to ensure the vehicle's safety and longevity.
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.
What is the problem with the 3.2 V6 Rodeo?
The Rodeo's 3.2-liter V6 engine is known to consume large amounts of motor oil. A lack of oil lubrication can lead to permanent engine damage. One CarComplaints user has reported hearing knocking sounds while the engine was running.
Why was Isuzu discontinued?
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.
How long do Isuzu Motors last?
Also powering Isuzu's N Series trucks, the Euro 4 emissions-compliant version in the MU-X produces 130kW at 3600rpm and 380Nm at 1800-2800rpm and comes with a B10 rating of 500,000km, which means 90 per cent of engines are expected to reach 500,000km before requiring a rebuild.
2000 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2000 Isuzu Amigo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2000 Isuzu Amigo complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2000 Isuzu Amigo.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-17
- VIN: 4S2CM57W2Y4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 ISUZU AMIGO. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH NO PRIOR WARNINGS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY REPLACED THE ENGINE AND UNITS OF THE POWER TRAIN. THREE YEARS LATER, WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE DEALER STATED THAT HER VEHICLE WASN'T INCLUDED IN RECALL NUMBER 01I002000, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. THE DEALER ALSO STATED THAT THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST TO REPLACE THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. A FORMAL COMPLAINT WAS ALSO FILED WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-05
- VIN: 4S2CK57W7Y4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL SENSOR FAILED. ONE WIRE WORE OUT ON THE FUEL SENSOR. THE FUEL PUMP HAD TO BE REPLACED COSTING $660. THE ISUZU AMIGO WAS ONLY 31/2 YEARS OLD AT THE TIME. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ALL 4 ROTORS AND BRAKE PADS WERE WARPED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED AT ONLY 12000 MILES.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-12
- VIN: 4S2CM57W9Y4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE USING OIL, TOOK TO DEALER, HAD TO PAY 240.00 FOR "ENGINE CLEANING" TO TRY TO FIX PROBLEM WITH RINGS STICKING. ISUZU KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM. AFTER PAYING FOR SERVICE ENGINE WAS STILL USING 1 QUART OF OIL IN 500 MILES. DEALER REPLACED RINGS IN ENGINE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS INTERMITTENTLY FLASHED EVER SINCE SERVICE WAS DONE, DOESN'T STAY ON THOUGH. HAVE TO RETURN TO DEALER AGAIN. *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-17
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE JUMPED OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-10
- VIN: 4S2CM57WOY4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ACCESSIVE ENGINE KNOCK AT HIGH RPM. ISUZU SAID IT'S NORMAL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-11
- VIN: 4S2CK57W9Y4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE KNOCKS (PINGS) UNDER LOAD 2300-3000 RPM'S. DEALER REPROGRAMED COMPUTER, BUT THE KNOCK WAS STILL PRESENT. THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE BAD GAS, AND SUGGESTED I TRY USING 89 OCTANE INSTEAD OF 87. THE 1989 OCTANE SLOVE THE PROBLEM FOR ABOUT 2500 MILES, BUT NOW THE KNOCKING IS BACK. I WOULD GUESS THAT THE 1989 OCTANE WAS ONLY MASKING THE PROBLEM AS IT CONTINUED TO GET WORSE.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: ADD
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE PUTTING SUNROOF BACK ON VEHICLE IT EXPLODED, CONSUMER RECEIVED CUTS TO FACE/ NECK AND LEGS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4S2CK57D1Y4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S2CK57D1Y4
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: MY WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE INVOLVED IN A CRASH WITH OUR 2000 ISUZU AMIGO. MY WIFE IMPACTED A VEHICLE WHICH HAD CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH. NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED NOR DID THE SEAT BELT TIGHTEN UP TO RESTRAIN MY WIFE, WHICH RESULTED IN HER IMPACTING THE STEERING WHEEL. AT THE SAME TIME, THE DRIVERS SEAT MOVED FORWARD AND DID NOT REMAIN STATIONARY.
2000 Isuzu Amigo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2000 Isuzu Amigo.
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MANUFACTURING SERVICES OF AMERICA
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: ISUZU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2000 AMIGO AND MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 RODEO SPORT VEHICLES, THAT WERE ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR ARE CURRENTLY REGISTERED, IN THE STATES OF MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT, MASSACHUSETTS, RHODE ISLAND, CONNECTICUT, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, PENNSYLVANIA, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, WEST VIRGINIA, OHIO, INDIANA, MICHIGAN, ILLINOIS, WISCONSIN, MINNESOTA, IOWA, MISSOURI, AND KENTUCKY. THESE VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE CORROSION IN THE VICINITY OF THE FORWARD MOUNTING POINT BRACKET FOR THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK.
- Consequence: EXCESSIVE CORROSION MAY RESULT IN THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET BECOMING DETACHED FROM THE FRAME, WHICH CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET AREA. FOR VEHICLES IN WHICH LITTLE OR NO CORROSION IS FOUND, THE AREA WILL BE TREATED WITH AN ANTI-CORROSIVE COMPOUND. FOR VEHICLES IN WHICH CORROSION HAS DAMAGED THE REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET AND AFFECTED ITS CONNECTION TO THE VEHICLE FRAME, A REINFORCEMENT BRACKET WILL BE INSTALLED. IN THE RARE EVENT THE CORROSION IS SO SEVERE THAT THE REINFORCEMENT BRACKET REMEDY WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE, ISUZU WILL OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE VEHICLE FOR AN AMOUNT BASED ON THE KELLEY BLUE BOOK PRIVATE PARTY PRICE. ALL INSPECTIONS AND REMEDIES WILL BE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE FOR VEHICLES THAT ARE 10 YEARS OLD OR LESS. FOR VEHICLES OLDER THAN 10 YEARS, ISUZU WILL OFFER A FREE REMEDY, BUT ONLY IF THE VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN ISUZU SERVICE FACILITY DEALER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF WHEN OWNER NOTIFICATIONS WERE ISSUED. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING JULY 2012. ISUZU OWNERS MAY CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1998-2000 RODEO (UE) AND AMIGO (UA) MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L 4-CYLINDER ENGINES. THE TIMING BELT COULD BREAK BEFORE THE RECOMMENDED SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO CRANK BUT WILL NOT START OR THE ENGINE COULD STALL WHILE DRIVING AND WILL NOT RESTART.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE TO DETERMINE THE CONDITION OF THE TIMING BELT AND TENSIONER. THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TIMING BELT. DEPENDING ON THE CONDITION OR MODEL OF THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER, THE TENSIONER MAY ALSO BE REPLACED. ISUZU HAS DECIDED TO CONDUCT A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE TIMING BELT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 22, 2001. OWNERS CAN CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-643-4070, EXT. 426, CONCERNING THIS PROGRAM.
Negative 2000 Isuzu Amigo car reviews
Positive 2000 Isuzu Amigo car reviews
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164,000 miles on mine and still going strong! I'm so happy with my Isuzu. I've only had one problem in 6 years (catalytic converters needed replacing) and this was at the 160,000 mile mark - you can't beat it. This was my first Isuzu and I've never owned nor heard of someone else owning a car that is this reliable.
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This vehicle has been bulletproof up to 55,000 miles. There have been no major mechanical problems and both the interior and exterior body hardware are holding up well. The plastic windows are showing some wear. The only work done, other than Isuzu recalls and service bulletins, was a new battery, front brake pads at 50K miles, and new tires at 55K. During the warranty period, the windshield washer pump and radio were replaced. I had a terrible experience with the dealer I purchased the vehicle from, Pitre Isuzu in Scottsdale, but have been completely satisfied with Chapman Isuzu in Tempe since then. The ride quality is what you should expect from a short wheelbase utility vehicle. The performance from the 4-cylinder engine is adequate until the air conditioning is turned on, then it becomes pretty tepid.
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The car has proven to be a great performer and an exciting drive. Although it has been involved in two accidents, one minor and one more significant, the necessary replacements have only added to its impressive performance. Additionally, it is highly fuel-efficient and ideal for long-distance travel.
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I've had my truck for 5.5 years now and I still absolutely love it! It's been a reliable companion with no issues to date (75K), and it still has the original brake pads. Plus, the factory hard top is a breeze to remove and replace with the soft-top during the summer.
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You've had the car for about a year now, and it sounds like it's been a blast to drive! It's great to hear that it performs well both on and off the road, and that it has plenty of power. Plus, it looks great too!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2000 Isuzu Amigo problems:
98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 13, 2018 ... 98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? · 1. Rust in general, but especially at the rear suspension lower link where it meets the frame. · 2.
Isuzu Amigo Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
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 ...
Known Rodeo problems. | Isuzu SUV Forum
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 ...
Isuzu Rodeo: Vern's Pump House - Q&A on 2000 Isuzu Rodeo ...
Dec 6, 2011 ... Both are very common and can cause you vehicle to loose power along with many other drive ability issues. First look for cracks or rips or ...
2000 4runner sr5 vs isuzu rodeo - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
Feb 21, 2008 ... I was told that was a common problem with that body style Rodeo but the new transmission was supposed to be much better. I got rid of the 93 ...
Other years of Isuzu Amigo
Are you having problems with your 2000 Isuzu Amigo?
Torrance Bradtke 2025-01-06
I really enjoyed my amigo, even though I had to replace the starter once, and the alternator three times (unfortunately, they kept giving me bad rebuilt parts). Even when a bad piston ruined the engine at 136,000 miles, I still loved driving it. Out of the 14 cars and 2 motorcycles I've owned, it was definitely the most fun. Despite the fact that the 4 cyl sucks gas like a hummer, it's incredibly secure and you never feel like you're losing control. Plus, with the gray bumpers and the spare tire on the back, I avoided any visible bumps from other cars and such. I'm currently on the lookout for another amigo to buy, because I miss my old one. Unfortunately, replacing the engine costs more than buying another vehicle.
Brice Schuster 2024-10-18
Wow, you've put 90,000 miles on your car! It sounds like you've had to do a lot of work on it, including rebuilding the transmission twice, replacing the clutch four times, the catalytic converter, and even the entire engine. You've also had to deal with small interior parts falling off, like the seat levers, sunshade brackets, the accelerator pedal, and other little pieces that you find under the seat but can't figure out where they go. That must have been frustrating, but it's great that you've been able to keep your car running for so long!
Chance Conn 2024-10-16
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some information about my car with you. I bought it on November 13th, 1998, and it has been a reliable companion ever since. As of today, September 23rd, 2008, the total mileage is over 115K. Recently, someone asked to buy it, but I refused because it has been such a great car. I wanted to let you know that the Yokohama tires have reduced the small vibration that I used to feel with the Good Year tires. In 2004, I had the clutch rebuilt for $1000, and it has been running smoothly ever since. In the spring of 2007, the geardrive was oddly out of oil and got noisy, but Ford-WPB fixed it for $1500. Then, the engine overheated at idle, but Ford was able to fix it by changing the oxygen sensor for $600. They also ran diagnostics tests for loss of power and A/C not cooling, which were very helpful. I declined the $1500 A/C work, but Tires-Plus was able to reconnect the radiator return hose in the overflow for a $20 check test. They also recharged the A/C, which is now working perfectly! The soft top needs to be refreshed since it has not been in an overnight garage since 2003. Thank you for taking the time to read about my car!
Darwin Larson 2024-09-09
The Amigo is a really enjoyable car to drive, despite its simplicity and tightness. Although the 4 cylinder lacks some power, it can still take off when necessary. I have the most basic model, but I appreciate how it's readily made for the V6 and 4WD. However, the hard suspension designed for this type of car is a little too hard for a smooth ride. I don't like how the engine taps loudly when it's cold, but it sounds fine after heating up. Unfortunately, the soft top hardens due to typical New England weathering, making it very difficult to use. The 2WD model is not ideal for snowy conditions and slides very easily (although I must admit, it can be fun to slide around). Overall, it's a fun car to start with, but it may not be the best choice for school.
Kacey Welch 2024-07-10
I really want to like this vehicle, but unfortunately, my dealer has not been able to resolve some nagging warranty issues that have been plaguing my Isuzu since we took delivery of it in 2002. Specifically, the transfer case won't stay in 4wd, and I have had trouble keeping a set of front tires on it. Additionally, some of the plastic interior parts have fallen off, and the water pump and timing belt tensioner needed to be replaced around the same time. On top of all that, Isuzu changed the name to Rodeo Sport, which significantly decreased its trade-in value. Despite all these issues, I do appreciate the body style, and I am planning to upgrade it with a vortec 350/auto trans this winter.