1987 Isuzu I mark problems

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

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.

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Common 1987 Isuzu I mark problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1987 Isuzu I-Mark, common problems with this car include:

Difficulty Finding Parts: Finding parts for the Isuzu I-Mark can be challenging due to its somewhat uncommon nature. While not impossible, this can lead to delays in repairs and maintenance, impacting the overall ownership experience. Owners may need to explore various sources to locate the necessary parts for their vehicles.

Unreliable Ground Clearance: The Isuzu I-Mark has been noted to have limited ground clearance, which can be a concern for some owners. This issue may lead to difficulties when driving over uneven terrain or speed bumps, potentially causing damage to the vehicle's undercarriage if not navigated carefully.

Handling Issues: Despite positive feedback on handling, some owners have reported handling issues with the Isuzu I-Mark, which could affect the driving experience. Addressing any handling concerns promptly is crucial to ensure safe and enjoyable driving.

Limited Availability of Turbocharged Models: Turbocharged models of the Isuzu I-Mark, like the RS Turbo, are rare and may present challenges in terms of maintenance and tuning options. Owners of these models may face difficulties in finding specialized parts or expertise for tuning, impacting the performance potential of the vehicle.

Interior Quality: Compared to competitors like the VW GTI or Honda Civic Si, the interior of the Isuzu I-Mark may feel less refined and of lower quality. This aspect can influence the overall comfort and satisfaction of the driver and passengers, highlighting a potential area for improvement in future models.

These reported problems provide insights into the ownership experience of the 1987 Isuzu I-Mark, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance, careful driving in challenging conditions, and addressing any issues promptly to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

How much HP does a Isuzu I Mark have?

The RS weighed just 2,167 lbs., and the new 1,588-cc engine belted out 125 hp at 6,800 rpm. You had to thrash this pocket rocket to go fast, but it was a fun dance partner. It's relative rarity when new and that need to use it hard means survivors are very rare now.

How long do Isuzu engines last?

The rating means that 90% of Isuzu 4HK1-TC engines are expected to last 375,000 miles before they require a major repair or rebuild. Previously, the 4HK1-TC engine carried a B10 rating of 310,000 miles.

Do Isuzu make good engines?

The company is renowned for its high-quality engines that are used in a wide range of applications, including trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine vessels. Isuzu engines are known for their durability, efficiency and reliability, making them a popular choice for many different industries.

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.

1987 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:

Electrical system problems
Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Isuzu I mark vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1987 Isuzu I mark complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Isuzu I mark.

1999-12-07

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-08-01
VIN: JABRT5194H4
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: THIS IS THE SECOND ECU TO GO BAD. CAUSES ENGINE TO REV, DIE, SPUTTER,ETC. MAKES DRIVING VERY DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS WHEN HAPPENS!

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1995-12-26

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: JABRT5174H4
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: ALL THE SEAT BELTS IN THE CAR FAILED TO LATCH. THE OWNER HAS WRITTEN A LETTER TO CONGRESSMAN ALSO SPOKE TO DEALER NOTHING HAPPENED. TT

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1987 Isuzu I mark recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1987 Isuzu I mark.

1988-03-28

Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: THE POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION VALVE MAY PROVIDE INADEQUATE AIR FLOW UNDER LOW ENGINE LOAD CONDITIONS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW WATER/OIL MIXTURE TO BUILD UPIN THE HOSE FROM THE OIL SEPARATOR TO THE AIR INLET DUCT. AFTER THE ENGINE ISSTOPPED, THIS WATER/OIL MIXTURE CAN, UNDER COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS, FREEZE ANDCOMPLETELY BLOCK THE OIL SEPARATOR AIR DUCT HOSE. THIS BLOCKAGE WILL RESULT ININCREASED PRESSURE WITHIN THE CRANKCASE. THIS CAN CAUSE OIL LEAKS. IF ASUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF OIL CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM AN ENGINECOMPARTMENT FIRE COULD RESULT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: THE PCV VALVE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW VALVE.

1988-03-28

Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Summary: PERFORATION OF THE FUEL TANK OR ATTACHED FUEL FEED PIPE DUE TO CORROSION OF THE TANK OR FUEL FEED PIPE MATERIALS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK FROM THE FUELTANK AND ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. SUCH A FIRE COULDSPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: REPLACE GAS TANK WITH NEW CORROSION RESISTANT TANK.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1987 Isuzu I mark problems:

81 Isuzu I-Mark Diesel temperature sender for gauge - IsuzuPup.com

https://www.isuzupup.com/viewtopic.php?t=21389

Sep 8, 2014 ... I know this because the connector coming loose is a common problem on my 1981 imarks... whenever the temp gauge falls to it's resting position, ...

COAL: 1986 Isuzu I-Mark - That's No Lie! - Curbside Classic

https://www.curbsideclassic.com/cars-of-a-lifetime/coal-1986-isuzu-i-mark-thats-no-lie/

May 26, 2013 ... I took a test drive, liked it, couldn't find any faults except for the mysterious disappearance of the grille logo, and closed the deal. While ...

87 1.9L voltage regulator issues - IsuzuPup.com

https://www.isuzupup.com/viewtopic.php?t=17444

Nov 1, 2012 ... 1981 2dr Auto LS I-Mark diesel (need windshield); 198? 4dr Auto gas I-Mark (parts); 91(sold) and 94 Isuzu 2.3 p/u(daily driver); '87 1.9L LS Pup ...