1983 Isuzu I mark problems

get an estimate
isuzu logo

The Isuzu Gemini is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu from 1974 until 2000. The same basic product was built and/or sold under several other names, sometimes by other General Motors brands, in various markets around the world. While the first generation was of a rear-wheel drive design, later versions were all front-wheel-drive, and the last two generations were no more than badge-engineered Honda Domani until the name was retired in 2000.

First generation (1974)

The first Gemini was the Bellett Gemini, first seen in November 1974. It was based on the third-generation Opel Kadett C on the General Motors T-car platform and came in four-door sedan and two-door coupe body styles. The chassis code was PF50, although the later 1.8-liter versions were called PF60 and the diesels PFD60.

In June 1977 the Gemini received its first, light, facelift. The bigger 1817 cc G180 series engine became available, fitted with rectangular headlights rather than the round units used on the 1600. This model offered 110 PS (81 kW), although this output dropped to 105 PS (77 kW) if an automatic transmission was fitted. In November of the same year the 1600 was updated, now with square headlights and an engine with the I·CAS oxidation catalyst ("Isuzu Clean Air System") which could manage the 1978 emissions standards. One year later the Gemini 1800's engine was also upgraded to meet the 1978 emissions standards. Power remained unchanged, and the automatic now offered the same power as cars with manual transmission. The ignition system was now of a transistor less type, and the trunk lid was now opened remotely (not added to the Gemini 1600 until the end of December). The Gemini Black and 1800 Minx were also added, the Minx with a two-tone paintjob and the Black with black paintwork and more sporty yet comfortable equipment including alloy wheels.

In June 1979, the Gemini received a new slant nose with rectangular headlights and a redesigned rear end. The changes were actually more comprehensive than that, also including a redesigned (longer) engine bay and a wider radiator opening for two new engines added in November (the twin cam G180W and the new 4FB1 diesel) which both required wider radiators for more air for cooling.

In Japan, sports models were available originally with the "ZZ" name. Later, ZZ/L (1980), ZZ/R (1981), ZZ/T, and ZZ/E models were added. These were equipped with an Isuzu G180W 8-valve DOHC 1.8-liter engine, most commonly fuel-injected, producing 130 PS (96 kW) at 6400 rpm. These models also came with a shortened remote throw manual shift lever and optional factory LSD differential. There was also a mildly sporting model of the OHC 1800, called the LS/G.

In October 1982 a version of the diesel with Bosch VE electronic fuel injection was also added; this provided 8% more power than the regular version (66 versus 61 PS) and was fitted to the LT-E and LJ-E models. For those who wanted more, a 73 PS (54 kW) turbo diesel appeared a month later. Also featuring electronic fuel injection, this model also received a standard rear anti-roll bar. Counterintuitively, the two more powerful diesels were never available with the coupé bodywork.

The Gemini was complemented in 1981 by the Giugiaro-designed coupé Isuzu Piazza, based on the Gemini's platform, which was introduced in the United States in 1983 as the Isuzu Impulse and in Australia in 1986 as the Holden Piazza. After the front-wheel-drive second generation Gemini appeared in early 1985, the old rear-wheel drive version nonetheless continued to be built. The coupé model was discontinued, and a slimmed down sedan range (including the ZZ and diesel models) continued to be available. This diminished range was produced until February 1987, when the rear-wheel drive Gemini was laid to rest after 768,537 had been built.

1983 Isuzu I mark

Social links

Common 1983 Isuzu I mark problems

The Isuzu I-Mark, also known as the Chevrolet Chevette in some markets, was a subcompact car produced between 1976 and 1987. Despite its popularity, the car had several common problems that were frequently reported by owners.

One of the most common issues with the Isuzu I-Mark was related to the engine, specifically the 1.4-liter engine that was dropped in 1983. This engine was known to have problems with fuel delivery, which resulted in poor performance and fuel economy. The 1.6-liter engine that replaced it was also prone to problems, including issues with the carburetor and ignition system. The "HO" (high output) version of the 1.6-liter engine, which was introduced in 1978, was particularly problematic, with many owners reporting issues with the head gasket and valve train.

Another common issue with the Isuzu I-Mark was related to the transmission. The car was available with a variety of transmissions, including a 4-speed manual, a 5-speed manual, and a 3-speed automatic. Many owners reported issues with the automatic transmission, including slipping, hesitation, and poor shifting. These problems were often caused by issues with the transmission fluid, which could become contaminated or degraded over time.

The Isuzu I-Mark was also known for having issues with the electrical system. Many owners reported problems with the ignition system, including issues with the distributor, spark plugs, and ignition coil. These problems could result in poor performance, rough idling, and difficulty starting the car.

In addition to these common problems, the Isuzu I-Mark was also known for having issues with the fuel system. Many owners reported problems with the fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. These problems could result in poor performance, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the car.

Finally, the Isuzu I-Mark was known for having issues with the suspension and steering system. Many owners reported problems with the steering, including issues with the power steering pump and steering gear. These problems could result in difficulty steering the car, especially at low speeds. The car was also known for having issues with the suspension, including problems with the shocks, struts, and springs. These problems could result in a rough ride and poor handling.

In summary, the Isuzu I-Mark was a popular car, but it was known for having several common problems. These problems included issues with the engine, transmission, electrical system, fuel system, and suspension and steering system. While some of these problems could be addressed with simple maintenance and repairs, others were more serious and could require significant repairs or replacement of parts.

1983 Isuzu I mark engine

1983 Isuzu I mark car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Isuzu I mark vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Isuzu I mark complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Isuzu I mark.

1995-06-14

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1986-01-01
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILED, ALSO BELT PLASTIC PIECE WHICH HOLDS BELT CRACKED. *SKD

1983 Isuzu I mark recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1983 Isuzu I mark.

1983-04-29
  • Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
  • Components: STEERING:COLUMN
  • Summary: THE TILT STEERING WHEEL LOCK MECHANISM THAT HOLDS THE STEERING WHEEL IN PLACE MAY BREAK. FAILURE OF THE LOCKING MECHANISM WOULD ALLOW THE STEERING WHEEL TO TILT, UNRESTRAINED. THE WHEEL MAY TRAVEL TO THE HIGH OR LOW POSITION.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE STEERING TILT LOCKING PIN WITH A NEW PIN AT NO CHARGE.
Leave your review of 1983 Isuzu I mark

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Isuzu I mark problems:

87 1.9L voltage regulator issues - IsuzuPup.com
87 1.9L voltage regulator issues - IsuzuPup.com
https://www.isuzupup.com/viewtopic.php?t=17444

Nov 1, 2012 ... My 87 1.9L is having some electrical problems, it seems. ... ISUZU I-MARK (1981 - 1989) ISUZU IMPULSE (1983 - 1992) ... COMMON BUT CAN HAPPEN, ALL ...

Curbside Classic: 1982 Isuzu I-Mark Diesel | The Truth About Cars
Curbside Classic: 1982 Isuzu I-Mark Diesel | The Truth About Cars
https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2010/09/curbside-classic-1982-isuzu-i-mark-diesel/

Sep 28, 2010 ... common on our streets, and now are mostly gone. When is the last time you ran across a gen1 I-Mark? There's probably a thousand Hemi Cudas ...

Going to look at an '81 - IsuzuPup.com
Going to look at an '81 - IsuzuPup.com
https://www.isuzupup.com/viewtopic.php?t=9390

Feb 3, 2010 ... Any suggestions on what are common problems to look for? ... 2.2 Isuzu diesel engine and trans. ... Wow, thats good to know, same diesel engine in ...

Curbside Outtake: 1982 Isuzu I-Mark Diesel - Another I-Mark Still ...
Curbside Outtake: 1982 Isuzu I-Mark Diesel - Another I-Mark Still ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-outtake/curbside-outtake-1982-isuzu-i-mark-diesel-another-i-mark-still-clattering-along-after-38-years/

Jun 29, 2020 ... The Isuzu Mark, here called the ... The worst of the diesel problems was always the bean counters. ... common rail diesels become viable for ...

1983 S10 2WD 1.9 4CLY Auto MPG? | S-10 Forum
1983 S10 2WD 1.9 4CLY Auto MPG? | S-10 Forum
https://www.s10forum.com/threads/1983-s10-2wd-1-9-4cly-auto-mpg.470614/

May 28, 2011 ... 1983 S10 2WD 1.9 4CLY Auto MPG? ... I also have a Buick Opel (Isuzu I mark or Gemini) it also has the same engine. ... We ran into some problems.

Other years of Isuzu I mark

isuzu i mark 1985 photo
I mark 1985
Isuzu

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu i mark 1986 photo
I mark 1986
Isuzu

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu i mark 1987 photo
I mark 1987
Isuzu

2

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu i mark 1989 photo
I mark 1989
Isuzu

10

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu i mark 1983 photo
I mark 1983
Isuzu

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1983 Isuzu I mark?

Add car complaint
1983 Isuzu I mark photo