1988 Isuzu Pickup truck problems

isuzu logo

The Isuzu Faster is a pickup truck that was manufactured and marketed by Isuzu between 1972 and 2002 over three generations. The Faster was succeeded worldwide by Isuzu D-Max, except in Japan and North America.

First generation (1972–1980)

Isuzu of Japan introduced the KB20 / 25 series Faster pickup in 1972. The regular wheelbase models were designated "20", while "25" referred to the longer version. Derived from the Isuzu Florian, the Faster shared many components, including doors and the front-end assemblage. It served as a replacement for the Isuzu Wasp, a pickup version of the Bellett which preceded the Florian. Both single and twin headlamp front fascia designs were produced.

Due to the exterior dimensions, and engines offered were found to be in compliance with Japanese regulations, the platform was classed in the favorable "compact" designation, and competed with other Japanese made products sold in Japan at the time.

In most export markets, Isuzu rebranded the Faster as the "Isuzu KB". However, the Faster was often distributed through General Motors (GM) retail channels and sold under the Chevrolet brand as the "Chevrolet LUV"—LUV being an acronym for light utility vehicle. Bedford, the European commercial vehicle subsidiary of GM also offered the vehicle under the "Bedford KB" name.

The Isuzu Faster used a traditional pickup truck chassis with a ladder frame and a leaf spring live axle rear suspension. At the front, the A-arm suspension used an independent configuration. The 2,600 mm (102.4 in) wheelbase was similar to its competitors, as was the 1,855 mm (73.0 in) cargo bay. Unlike for the preceding Wasp, there was also a long wheelbase version (KB25) which had 2,995 mm (117.9 in) between the axles, which made for a 2,290 mm (90.2 in) bed.

In 1978, a four-wheel drive version became available, with the KB40 chassis code but sold under the "Faster Rodeo" label in Japan. There was also a double cab (on the longer chassis) version. Sales ended in 1980 when the second generation was introduced. The engine used in most markets was a carbureted 1.6-liter (1,584 cc) gasoline SOHC inline-four of 94 PS (69 kW), which was complemented by a 2.0-liter (1,951 cc) diesel four (KBD) which produced 62 PS (46 kW). Top speeds were 145 km/h (90 mph) and 115 km/h (71 mph) for the gasoline and diesel versions respectively. In Japan, an overhead valve engine (G161) was fitted originally; this produces 84 PS (62 kW) for a 135 km/h (84 mph) top speed.

General Motors-Holden imported the Faster into Australia from November 1972 under the name "Chevrolet LUV", renaming it "Isuzu KB" in 1977 before it was replaced in December 1980 by the second generation model (badged "Holden Rodeo"). Holden launched the LUV in Australia with the 1.6-liter inline-four gasoline engine delivering approximately 50 kW (67 hp) of power and 110 N⋅m (81 lb⋅ft) of torque. Gaining an early reputation for reliability and durability, these original rear-wheel drive models featured a four-speed manual transmission, short-wheelbase construction, and circa 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) payload capacity.

An update in 1978 expanded the LUV range—now comprising the short-wheelbase KB20 model, the new long-wheelbase KB25 and the four-wheel drive KB40 short-wheelbase. These KB25 and KB40 variants were offered in both cab chassis and utility (pickup) body styles and could be specified with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine or the newly available 1.95-liter inline-four diesel. The diesel produced 45 kW (60 hp) and 113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft).

Responsibility of sales in North America was delegated to General Motors. Thus, the Isuzu was retailed via Chevrolet dealerships as the "Chevrolet LUV". The only engine was a 1.8-liter (1,817 cc) SOHC inline-four which produced 75 hp (56 kW).

Sales in the United States began in March 1972 as a response to the Datsun and Toyota pickup trucks, as well as Ford's Mazda-built Courier. To circumvent the 25 percent tariff on light trucks (known as the chicken tax), LUVs were imported in cab chassis configuration, which included the entire light truck, less the cargo box or truck bed and were only subject to a 4 percent tariff. Subsequently, a truck bed would be attached to the chassis and the vehicle could be sold as a light truck.

The LUV's exterior was updated slightly for the 1974 model year, but the first major update came in the 1976 model year, when a three-speed automatic transmission option and front disc brakes were added. Power was up to 80 hp (60 kW) for 1977, and sales continued to rise. An exterior refresh and the addition of a 2,285 mm (90 in) cargo bay option, with longer 2,995 mm (118 in) wheelbase, brought sales up to 71,145 in 1978. The addition of four-wheel drive for 1979 brought the LUV to the attention of Motor Trend magazine, and earned it their second "Truck of the Year" award. The LUV was the first four-wheel-drive minitruck available and set a new trend. Sales peaked at 100,192.

1988 Isuzu Pickup truck

Social links

Common 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck problems

Common Problems with the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988

The Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 has been known for its reliability and durability, but like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems.

One problem that has been reported by owners is engine oil leaks from the front crankshaft seal. This issue can lead to significant oil loss, which can cause the engine to run low on oil, leading to engine damage.

Another common problem reported by owners is a coolant leak from the heater core. This issue can lead to the engine overheating, which can cause significant damage to the engine. It is essential to address this issue promptly to avoid further damage to the vehicle.

Additionally, some owners have reported a squeak type noise from the steering column when turning. This issue can be caused by various factors, including worn-out steering components or loose connections.

In some cases, the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 has been known to have problems with broken motor mounts, broken power steering, and cracked exhaust manifolds. These issues can lead to significant problems with the vehicle's drivability and can be costly to repair.

It is also worth noting that the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 has been known to have problems with its fuel system, particularly with the injector pump and fuel lines. These issues can lead to reduced performance and fuel efficiency, as well as increased emissions.

In terms of safety, the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 has had its share of recalls and safety issues. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued recalls for various safety issues, including problems with the vehicle's brakes, fuel system, and electrical components. It is essential to stay up-to-date with recalls and safety issues for the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability.

In summary, the Isuzu Pickup Truck 1988 has some common problems that owners should be aware of, including engine oil leaks, coolant leaks, and steering column noises. Additionally, the vehicle has had safety issues and recalls that owners should stay informed about to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

1988 Isuzu Pickup truck engine

1988 Isuzu Pickup truck car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Tires problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1988 Isuzu Pickup truck complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck.

2000-10-18

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-08-15
  • VIN: JAACR11E2J7
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TIRES 1/3 WORN. WIRE FROM STEEL BELT PENETRATED TREAD AND IS PROTRUDING OUT ABOUT AN INCH. ALSO ALL 4 TIRES TREAD IS CRACKING AROUND THE TREAD STUDS. (DOT NUMBER: VN60AXC TIRESIZE: 3110.50R15)
1996-01-11

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-11
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE REAR BRAKE PAD LITERALLY FELL OUT THE REAR DISC BRAKES. TT
1995-01-06

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1989-10-10
  • VIN: JAACL11E657
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL INJECTOR LEAKING CAUSING A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. TT

1988 Isuzu Pickup truck recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck.

2006-03-23
  • Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Leave your review of 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck

Other years of Isuzu Pickup truck

isuzu pickup truck 1989 photo
Pickup truck 1989
Isuzu

9

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu pickup truck 1990 photo
Pickup truck 1990
Isuzu

10

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu pickup truck 1991 photo
Pickup truck 1991
Isuzu

7

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu pickup truck 1992 photo
Pickup truck 1992
Isuzu

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu pickup truck 1993 photo
Pickup truck 1993
Isuzu

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu pickup truck 1994 photo
Pickup truck 1994
Isuzu

0

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1988 Isuzu Pickup truck?

Add car complaint
1988 Isuzu Pickup truck photo