2002 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 2002 Isuzu Amigo problems
The Isuzu Amigo 2002 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- 4WD engagement problems: Some owners have reported that their 4WD does not engage when they shift it, or it makes a loud clicking or knocking noise and jumps around when it does engage. This can be a serious issue, as it can affect the vehicle's ability to handle off-road or slippery conditions.
- Poor city gas mileage: Some owners have reported that their Amigo gets significantly worse gas mileage in the city than on the highway, with some reporting as low as 5-10 miles per gallon in city driving. This can be a significant issue for owners who do a lot of city driving.
- Engine failure: The most commonly reported problem with the Isuzu Rodeo, which is closely related to the Amigo, is engine failure. This can be caused by a lack of motor oil lubrication, which can lead to permanent engine damage. One CarComplaints user reported hearing knocking sounds while the engine was running, and when their SUV was brought in for repairs, the mechanic discovered a hole in the engine caused by an unlubricated piston. A lack of motor oil can also lead to overheating, which can disable important safety features such as air bags, power steering, and power braking.
- Air bag problems: The Japanese automaker has issued a recall for certain 2000 Isuzu Rodeo models due to faulty air bag modules. The passenger-side air bag modules on certain sports utility vehicles were manufactured and shipped without check valve pins, which can cause the air bag to not inflate sufficiently in the event of a crash, increasing the rate of injury or death to occupants seated on the passenger side.
- Rear suspension corrosion: Isuzu recalled about 11,000 of its Amigo and Rodeo Sport trucks from the 1998-2000 model years and 2001-2002 model years due to a corrosion problem with the rear suspension. The salt can cause the forward mounting point bracket for the rear suspension to rust and break, which can cause handling problems and possibly a crash.
These are some of the most commonly reported problems with the Isuzu Amigo 2002 based on complaints from owners. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to have any potential problems inspected and addressed by a qualified mechanic before purchasing the vehicle.
How long does a 2002 Isuzu Rodeo last?
What is Isuzu Rodeo lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Isuzu Rodeo is 187,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
What is the problem with the Isuzu 3.2 V6 engine?
Occasional problems on this vehicle are failure of the Intake Manifold Gaskets and the Engine Short Block. Failure of the Intake Manifold Gaskets may cause a rough idle or the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Lack of maintenance can cause the pistons rings to stick resulting in excessive engine oil usage.
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.
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.
2002 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:
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Isuzu Amigo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Isuzu Amigo complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Isuzu Amigo.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE TRUCK IMPACTED A TREE WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH AND AS A RESULT THE TRUCK'S FRONT BUMPER WRAPPED AROUND THE TREE. NEITHER THE DRIVER'S SIDE NOR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED UPON IMPACT. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES, BUT NO BROKEN BONES. THE CAUSE OF THE AIR BAG FAILURE IS YET TO BE DETERMINED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NLM
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 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.
2002 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Isuzu Rodeo? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Isuzu Rodeo.
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. Worth picking up? : r/Isuzu
Sep 24, 2021 ... I'd say reliability is relative. My 2001 Rodeo LS 4wd has been alright. I had the 4l30E rebuilt in 2012 (~100,000 miles), and have only had to ...
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 ...
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