2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport problems

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2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport

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Common 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport problems

The Isuzu Rodeo Sport 2003, like any vehicle, has its share of common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most commonly reported issues is engine failure, which affects nearly every Isuzu Rodeo model year.

Another common problem is the rear suspension separating from the frame, which was reported for the 2001 model year with an average cost to fix of $2,000 and an average mileage of 128,000 miles.

When considering purchasing a used Isuzu Rodeo Sport 2003, it’s important to ask the seller about the vehicle’s engine history to avoid costly repairs down the line.

2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport engine

How many miles can a 2003 Isuzu Rodeo last?

The estimated lifespan of a Isuzu Rodeo is 187,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit.

Is the Isuzu Rodeo a reliable car?

The Isuzu Rodeo is a generally well-received sports utility vehicle that got a reliability rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from Cars.com. Drivers praise the Isuzu Rodeo for its low maintenance costs, fuel economy, and suitability for outdoor adventures.

Why was Isuzu Rodeo discontinued?

The Isuzu Rodeo was discontinued for a variety of reasons. The primary reason was to reduce the number of SUVs in the company's line up.

Are Isuzu SUVs reliable?

Isuzu: The Power of Reliability

Isuzu might be a lesser-known name in some regions, but it has built a solid reputation for manufacturing tough and reliable SUVs and pickups. Isuzu's expertise lies in producing powerful diesel engines that deliver impressive performance and fuel efficiency.

2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport.

2010-08-21

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-20
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: OWN A 2003 ISUZU RODEO. CAR LOOKS IN GREAT SHAPE ON THE OUTSIDE BUT THE OTHER DAY, THE STABILIZER CAME OFF WHILE DRIVING. BARELY AVOIDED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. MECHANIC SAID HE NEVER SAW ANYTHING THAT BAD BEFORE, SEVERE RUST ON THE FRAME. CAN'T BE FIXED. THIS SEEMS TO BE A LARGE SCALE PROBLEM AND UNFORTUNATELY, I DIDN'T FIND OUT UNTIL AFTER IT HAPPENED, WHEN I WAS CURIOUS IF IT WAS A VEHICLE PROBLEM. THE CAR ALMOST FLIPPED WHEN THE PART CAME OFF BUT CAME TO STOP IN A DITCH. COULD HAVE BEEN VERY BAD. OTHERS MAY NOT BE AS LUCKY. *TR

2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport.

2013-10-31
  • Manufacturer: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
  • Summary: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America, Inc (Isuzu) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Rodeo and Axiom, and 2003 Rodeo Sport vehicles that were originally sold in, or are currently registered in, 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, Kentucky and Missouri. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion near the forward mounting point bracket for the left or right rear suspension lower link.
  • Consequence: The corrosion may allow the bracket to detach from the frame, impacting vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Isuzu will notify owners, and 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 event the corrosion is so severe that the reinforcement bracket remedy would not be sufficient, 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, after that time owners will be charged for the repairs. The recall is expected to begin in mid-December 2013. Isuzu owners may contact Isuzu at 1-800-255-6727.
2005-10-07
  • Manufacturer: ISUZU MANUFACTURING SERVICES OF AMERICA
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES THAT HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO FUEL CONTAMINATED WITH SILICON MAY DEVELOP SMALL PIN HOLES IN THE FUEL PUMP FEED PORT. SILICON HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THE FUEL SYSTEMS OF AFFECTED VEHICLES AND IN CERTAIN FUEL AVAILABLE IN THE REGION OF TYLER, TEXAS. THIS RECALL WILL BE LAUNCHED FOR VEHICLES REGISTERED IN TEXAS AND THE FOUR SURROUNDING STATES: OKLAHOMA, ARKANSAS, NEW MEXICO AND LOUISIANA.
  • Consequence: A FUEL LEAK COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE FIRE.
  • Remedy: FOR VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE STATES IDENTIFIED ABOVE, DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A NEW COVER OVER THE EXISTING FEED PORT ON THE FUEL PUMP OR, IF THE EXISTING FEED PORT HAS ALREADY BEEN DAMAGED, DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW FUEL PUMP THAT IS EQUIPPED WITH THE NEW COVER. THE NEW COVER WILL BE MADE OF A DIFFERENT MATERIAL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 25, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.

Negative 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport car reviews

  1. Antonio Kilback 2025-04-09

    The 2002 Rodeo Sport is not a wise investment due to its poor performance in bad weather conditions, even with the winter button engaged. Additionally, the braking system, despite having ABS brakes, is not up to par. It is important to exercise caution when driving this vehicle, as it may accelerate unexpectedly if the gas pedal is released without applying pressure to the accelerator.

  2. Keshawn Dach 2025-03-04

    Unfortunately, it seems that neither the Isuzu corporation nor the dealership were willing to accommodate the customer after they gave them the check. The customer had to have their transmission replaced after only 50,000 miles, even after they took it in because the transmission was slipping. The dealership held the customer's car hostage for 2 weeks without offering a rental, compensation, or showing any concern. Additionally, the car had the wrong spare tire cover, and when the customer asked for the correct one, Isuzu and the dealership refused. The car also has a leak, and after 60,000 miles, the AC/heat fan stopped working (out of warranty, unfortunately). Most of the interior plastic molding pieces broke or came off, and after 50,000 miles, the CD player stopped working (again, just out of warranty).

  3. Kraig Runolfsson 2024-09-18

    This is a great SUV! I've had it for just over a month and it's everything I expected and more. It handles traffic and off-road driving with ease, and has plenty of power for towing small trailers and campers. My son loves the rear moonroof, and the cargo space is just enough to fit all of my hunting equipment. The only minor issues I've noticed are that it's not the most fuel-efficient vehicle, and the shift lever can be a bit of a nuisance for my right leg.

  4. Gunner Turner 2024-03-22

    The rodeo sport is really nice! It's especially great to have 4WD in winter conditions and mud. The car looks amazing and the stereo system is awesome. My dog absolutely loves to ride in it because he can look out of all the windows. Plus, the cargo area is big enough to haul his kennel. However, on long road trips, it could be a little more comfortable. It would be great to have some lumbar support.

Positive 2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport car reviews

  1. Keith Kuhlman 2025-05-23

    It sounds like you're looking for a vehicle that can handle both tough terrain and heavy loads. This truck is definitely up to the task, with a powerful V6 engine and impressive towing capabilities. While it may not be the most luxurious SUV out there, it's a great choice for those who prioritize function over form. Plus, with its solid off-road capabilities, you can take it just about anywhere. Thanks for considering this option!

  2. Kian Block 2025-05-22

    This car is so much fun to drive, and you can rely on its 4x4 capabilities to keep you safe in even the most extreme conditions. It's also really easy to park thanks to its compact size, and it has some great features that make it stand out. Plus, the warranty is pretty generous too!

  3. Darron Bednar 2025-05-18

    It's great fun to drive! The car is compact yet roomy, and while I do wish it had better gas mileage, that's to be expected with a V6. The seats are very comfortable and there are lots of cup holders. This car is a great value and there are tons of options available! My husband has a 1989 Isuzu Amigo with 175,000 miles and he loves it. I'm very happy with my purchase and I got a fantastic deal! Isuzu is a great company to work with.

  4. Enrique Hill 2025-05-14

    I have been driving this car for three years now and I absolutely love it. Living in Florida, we experience a lot of summer rain storms, so having a truck-based SUV like this one comes in really handy. The acceleration is unparalleled, and the horsepower is amazing. The removable sunroofs are definitely the best feature. If you're looking for an SUV, I would highly recommend the Isuzu Rodeo Sport over a more feminine car-based SUV like the CR-V. I have driven my in-laws' CR-V several dozen times, and it simply does not compare. In three years of ownership, I have only had to do routine maintenance.

  5. Jeffery Murphy 2025-05-08

    For someone who enjoys both off-road and regular driving, this SUV has performed exactly as promised. It's not too flashy, but it reliably gets you where you need to go. In a few years, people will surely miss this straightforward and dependable 4x4.

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Other years of Isuzu Rodeo sport

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Rodeo sport 1998
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2003 Isuzu Rodeo sport photo