1996 Isuzu Rodeo problems

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1996 Isuzu Rodeo

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Common 1996 Isuzu Rodeo problems

The Isuzu Rodeo, manufactured between 1990 and 2004, is known for its reliability and low maintenance costs. However, some models have their share of problems, with engine failure being the most commonly reported issue, affecting nearly every Isuzu Rodeo model year. Overheating is another consequence of insufficient engine lubrication, which can disable essential safety features such as airbags, power steering, and power brakes. Despite the high frequency of engine failure, Isuzu has not issued any recalls for this issue, leaving potential repair costs to the vehicle owner.

Suspension corrosion is another common problem with the Isuzu Rodeo, particularly in the 2000 model year. The rear suspension is prone to separating from the frame, with an average cost to fix of $2,000 and an average mileage of 128,000 mi.

Airbag issues have also been reported in the Isuzu Rodeo, with the 1994 model year having the most complaints regarding engine failure and airbag problems. The average cost to fix these airbag issues is $4,500, with an average mileage of 85,000 mi. This problem can lead to the airbags not deploying in the event of a collision, putting the vehicle's occupants at risk.

In summary, the Isuzu Rodeo has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including engine failure, suspension corrosion, and airbag issues. While the vehicle is generally reliable and has low maintenance costs, these specific issues can lead to significant repair costs if not addressed promptly.

1996 Isuzu Rodeo engine

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.

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.

1996 Isuzu Rodeo car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Wheels problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Structure problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Isuzu Rodeo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1996 Isuzu Rodeo

The NHTSA has received 99 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Isuzu Rodeo. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Isuzu Rodeo vehicles.

2019-06-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-15
  • VIN: 4S2CK58V3T4
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL INESPERADAMENTE SE ACTIVO LA BOLSA DE AIRE DEL CHOFER QUEMANDO LOS BRAZOS Y LA BARRIGA DE MI ESPOSA , ELLA SINTIO UN OLOR FUERTE A CABLE QUEMADO PENSO QUE VENIA DEL EXTERIOR Y SACO SU CARA HACIA FUERA , Y CASI EN EL INSTANTA EXPLOTO LA SBOLSA YO SALI CORRIENDO Y LA VI LLENA DE UN POLVO BLANCO Y SUS BRAZOS QUEMADOS ,DAMOS GRACIAS A DIOS QUE TENIA LA CARA POR LA VENTANA , DE LO CONTRARIO LE HUVIESE QUEMADO EL REOSTRO ,EL VEHICULO ESTABA PARADO DESPUES DE DAR RIVERSA
2014-05-27

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-05-26
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V5T4
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE FRAME OF THIS VEHICLE IS RUSTED EXCESSIVELY AND IS DEEMED BY QUALIFIED MECHANICS AS NOT ROADWORTHY. ALL OTHER PARTS OF THE VEHICLE WORK PROPERLY AND THE VEHICLE STILL LOOKS GREAT. *TR
2012-06-06

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-06-05
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V5T4
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: EFFECTIVE PART: THE 2 MAIN FRAMES ARE RUST OUT AND COULD BREAK AT ANYTIME. WE BELIEVE ONE OF THE REASONS WHY THE FRAMES ARE DETERIORATING IS FROM SALT DURING THE WINTER. DO TO THE COMPANY BAD FRAMING. *TR
2011-08-02

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-02
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE FRAME OF MY 1996 ISUZU RODEO IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. WHEN SEARCHING ONLINE, I FOUND THAT THIS IS A VERY LARGE ISSUE THAT ISUZU IS HAVING. THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER TESTIMONIALS STATING THAT THEIR ISUZU RODEO'S FRAME IS RUSTED AWAY, AND THEY HAVE LESS THEN 100,000 MILES ON IT. MY RODEO HAS 110,000 MILES, BUT HAS PROBABLY BEEN RUSTED OUT SOME TIME AGO. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO REASON THAT A FRAME TO ANY MANUFACTURED VEHICLE SHOULD BE RUSTED OUT AROUND 100,000 MILES. MANY, MANY OTHER COMPONENTS TO THE CAR SHOULD BE GOING BAD WELL BEFORE THE FRAME ROTS OUT. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF OTHER CARS IN THE WORLD THAT ARE LITERALLY DECADES OLDER, AND DO NOT SHOW NEARLY AS MUCH FRAME RUST. ISUZU USED VERY LOW QUALITY, NON-RESISTANT METAL TO MAKE THE FRAME, AND IT HAS ALREADY INJURED/KILLED MANY PEOPLE. ISUZU RECOGNIZED THERE PROBLEM, AND MADE A RECALL ON THE RODEO'S FOR YEARS 1998-2002. THE SAME MATERIAL WAS USED IN ALL RODEO'S SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE 1998, HOWEVER, THEY LIMITED THERE RECALL TO ONLY 5 YEARS TO CUT DOWN EXPOSURE AND COSTS OF REPAIR. THAT IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS! THERE ARE 1996 AND 1997 RODEO'S ROTTING OUT AROUND 80,000 MILES. WHAT? WHY? THAT IS ABSOLUTELY CRIMINAL! THIS RECALL SHOULD INCLUDE ALL RODEO'S THAT EXPERIENCE THIS SAME PROBLEM, WHICH IS PRETTY MUCH ALL OF THEM. NOT JUST YEARS 1998-2002. MY FRAME HAS LARGE HOLES IN IT, AND CAN BE BROKEN BY HAND. THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING FOR EASILY ANOTHER DECADE. CAN SOMETHING PLEASE BE DONE ABOUT THIS, BEFORE MORE PEOPLE GET HURT. *KB
2011-08-02

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-02
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE FRAME OF MY 1996 ISUZU RODEO IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. WHEN SEARCHING ONLINE, I FOUND THAT THIS IS A VERY LARGE ISSUE THAT ISUZU IS HAVING. THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER TESTIMONIALS STATING THAT THEIR ISUZU RODEO'S FRAME IS RUSTED AWAY, AND THEY HAVE LESS THEN 100,000 MILES ON IT. MY RODEO HAS 110,000 MILES, BUT HAS PROBABLY BEEN RUSTED OUT SOME TIME AGO. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO REASON THAT A FRAME TO ANY MANUFACTURED VEHICLE SHOULD BE RUSTED OUT AROUND 100,000 MILES. MANY, MANY OTHER COMPONENTS TO THE CAR SHOULD BE GOING BAD WELL BEFORE THE FRAME ROTS OUT. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF OTHER CARS IN THE WORLD THAT ARE LITERALLY DECADES OLDER, AND DO NOT SHOW NEARLY AS MUCH FRAME RUST. ISUZU USED VERY LOW QUALITY, NON-RESISTANT METAL TO MAKE THE FRAME, AND IT HAS ALREADY INJURED/KILLED MANY PEOPLE. ISUZU RECOGNIZED THERE PROBLEM, AND MADE A RECALL ON THE RODEO'S FOR YEARS 1998-2002. THE SAME MATERIAL WAS USED IN ALL RODEO'S SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE 1998, HOWEVER, THEY LIMITED THERE RECALL TO ONLY 5 YEARS TO CUT DOWN EXPOSURE AND COSTS OF REPAIR. THAT IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS! THERE ARE 1996 AND 1997 RODEO'S ROTTING OUT AROUND 80,000 MILES. WHAT? WHY? THAT IS ABSOLUTELY CRIMINAL! THIS RECALL SHOULD INCLUDE ALL RODEO'S THAT EXPERIENCE THIS SAME PROBLEM, WHICH IS PRETTY MUCH ALL OF THEM. NOT JUST YEARS 1998-2002. MY FRAME HAS LARGE HOLES IN IT, AND CAN BE BROKEN BY HAND. THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING FOR EASILY ANOTHER DECADE. CAN SOMETHING PLEASE BE DONE ABOUT THIS, BEFORE MORE PEOPLE GET HURT. *KB
2011-06-20

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-06-09
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V6T4
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EXCESSIVE RUST WAS BUILDING UP UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V436000 (SUSPENSION:REAR) BUT THE YEAR OF THE VEHICLE DID NOT COMPLY WITH THE RECALL. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD EXTEND THE RECALL TO LATER MODEL VEHICLES AS THE FAILURE WAS CONCURRENT WITH THE FAILURE. 150,000. UPDATED 9/16/11 *CN THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE GAS TANK LEAKED DUE TO THE RUSTING OF THE VEHICLE. THE GAS TANK SUPPORTS RUSTED OUT AND THE FRAME WAS CRUMBLING FROM THE RUST. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE VEHICLE WAS BEYOND REPAIR. UPDATED 11/02/11
2011-03-01

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-02-25
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: HI, I OWN AN ISUZU RODEO S V6 (YEAR 1996) AND AFTER HAVING SOME PROBLEMS WITH THE FUEL PUMP MY MECHANIC ALERTED ME ABOUT AN ADVANCED RUSTING DETERIORATION ON THE STRUCTURAL FRAME OF THE CAR. NOT ONLY THE BODY OF THE CAR IS RUSTED BUT THE FUEL LINE PIPES AS WELL. THE BREAK FLUID PIPE BROKE TWO YEARS AGO DUE TO RUSTING BUT FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR BY REDUCING GEARS. THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GREAT CONDITION (MECHANICALLY, ELECTRICALLY, ETC) AND IT IS A SHAME THAT IN VITAL PARTS OF THE CAR ISUZU USED CHEAP/NON-RESISTANT MATERIAL. *TR
2011-02-02

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S2CK58E4T4
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: I PRESSED ON THE GAS PEDAL AND THE THROTTLE CABLE DIDN'T RETURN TO IDLE WHEN I LET OFF THE PEDAL. THE BRAKES WOULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE NOR WOULD PRESSING ON GAS PEDAL. TURNING OFF THE IGNITION IS THE ONLY WAY TO STOP ACCELERATION. I DROVE OUT OF CONTROL THROUGH TWO PEOPLES YARDS BEFORE COMING TO THIS CONCLUSION. *TR
2010-10-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-10-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 ISUZU RODEO. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD-ON COLLISION TRAVELING 35 MPH. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 149,000.
2010-10-05

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-09-18
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V5T4
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 ISUZU RODEO. THE FRAME WAS CORRODED AND COVERED WITH RUST. AFTER A ROUTINE MAINTENANCE CHECK THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WAS CORRODED AND COVERED WITH RUST. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED HIM THAT THERE WAS A RECALL BUT HIS YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER CONFIRMED THAT HIS YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 189,000.
2010-05-12

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-01-01
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE FRAME OF MY 1996 ISZUZ RODEO IS RUSTED AWAY. *TR
2010-02-22

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-02-22
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V6T4
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FRAME IS ROTTED ON 1996 ISUZU RODEO COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH , ONLY 98,000 MILES. *TR
2007-07-23

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-13
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V9T4
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: COMPLETELY RUSTED STEERING COLUMN FAILED (TWO PIECES). STEERING WHEEL COMPLETE MECHANICAL DISCONNECTION FROM VEHICLE STEERING MECHANISM CAUSED A LIFE THREATENING CONDITION. *JB
2006-06-07

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-06-07
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MY EGR VALVE ON MY 96 ISUZU RODEO KEEPS GOING OUT. I HAVE WENT TO MY LOCAL DEALER AND HE SAID THAT IN THE LAST YEAR HE HAS SOLD OVER 100 EGR VALVES FOR THIS VEHICLE AND THAT THEY HAVE NOT RECALLED THEM. I NEED TO KNOW WHY THEY HAVE NOT RECALLED THIS DO TO IT BEING AN ONGOING PROBLEM CAUSING EXTREMELY BAD GAS USE. *JB
2005-12-30

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-12-30
  • VIN: 4S2CK58V7T4
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY THE RPMS REVVED AS HIGH AS THE GAUGE WOULD ALLOW. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND THE BRAKES WOULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE. WAS FINALLY ABLE TO GET THE VEHICLE TO SLOW DOWN BY DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL VERY HARD. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE HOME, CHECKED THE ENGINE ,AND DISCOVERED THE RUBBER BOOT IN THE THROTTLE BODY WAS MELTED. THE BOOT WAS REMOVED BY THE CONTACT AND THIS REMEDIED THE PROBLEM. *AK UPDATED 3/9/2006 - *NM
2004-11-08

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-11-06
  • VIN: 4S2CK58V6T4
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: FOR THE 2ND TIME THE LUGS & STUDS ON THE ISUZU RODEO HAVE EITHER BROKEN/CRACKED OR STRIPPED WHEN A TIRE ROATION IS BEING PREFORMED. BOTH TIMES SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANUELLY TRIED TO REMOVE THE LUGS . AND AFTERWARDS TRIED TO TIGHTEN THE LUGS. AS A RESULT I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE REAR AXLE - SINCE THE STUDS ARE BUILT FROM THE INNER SIDE OUTWARD. NOW WITH SEVERAL LUGS STRIPPED AGAIN, I FEAR I WILL HAVE TO REPLACE THE AXLE AGAIN. *AK
2004-05-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-02
  • VIN: 4S2CK58V5T4
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: MY 1996 ISUZU RODEO LS SUFFERED APPROXIMATELY 30 DRIPS PER MINUTE LEAK ON TOP OF MY V6 ENGINE, POSING A POTENTIAL EXPLOSION HAZARD. THE LEAK WAS NOT FOUND FOR OVER TWO MONTHS BECAUSE THE ODOR WAS ONLY PRESENT WHILE THE TRUCK WAS RUNNING. FUEL WAS BURNING OFF THE ENGINE AND POSSIBLY IGNITED TWICE WHEN MY WIFE NOTICED SMOKE AND A STRONG UNIDENTIFYABLE ODOR. IT WAS NOT UNTIL MAY 2 THAT I STARTED THE TRUCK ON MY DRIVEWAY, THEN POPPED THE HOOD THEN I SAW THE FUEL LEAKING ONTO THE ENGINE. THE TRUCK HAD BEEN PLACED IN THE SHOP TO REPAIR OIL LEAKS JUST THE PREVIOUS WEEK, SO THE REPAIR WAS THOUGHT TO BE COMPLETE. THE FUEL LEAK WAS ATTRIBUTED TO A FAILED FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR WHOSE HOUSING RUPTURED CAUSING THE FUEL LEAK. THE PART IS AVAILABLE. ROSENTHAL ISUZU ORDERED A NEW FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR AND REPLACED THE DEFECTIVE ONE.
2004-04-12

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-12
  • VIN: 4S2CM58W0X4
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR. CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED THAT THE FRONTAL PASSENGER SIDE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED, BUT THE TIRE WAS STILL INFLATED. CONSUMER CALLED ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE. THEN, CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC INFORMED CONSUMER THAT TIRE WAS NOT ON RECALL. BRIDGESTONE, FIRESTONE, DUELER 684, P245/70R16, DOT UDR381. *AK
2003-12-16

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-16
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I HAVE HAD TO PUT THREE CLUTCHES IN MY 96 ISUZU RODEO IN ONLY FOUR YEARS. MECHANICS ALL REPORT THAT ORIGINAL CLUTCH DESIGN IS BAD.*AK
2003-10-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-09-26
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY TRANSMISSION LIGHT COMES ON AND STAY ON AND THEN IT DON'T DO IT FOR A WHILE AND I HAVE TAKEN IT TO REPAIR A NUMBER OF TIMES AND IT DO NOT DO IT BUT WHEN IT IS ON AND YOU ARE DRIVING IT DRIVE REAL GOOD BUT WHEN YOU STOP IT DOES NOT WANT TO PULL OF LIKE IT IS IN A STRAIN AND WHEN I PUT IT DOWN IN LOW GEAR AND PULL OFF IT DRIVES GOOD AND I SHIFT UNTIL I GET IT BACK IN DRIVE AND IT IS FIND UNTIL YOU STOP A GAIN. AND THERE WAS ONE OCCASION I STOP AND IT REAR UP TO TAKE OFF BY ITSELF AND WHEN I PUT IT IN PARK IT STILL DID THE SAME THING I HAD TO CUT IT OFF TO GET CONTROL OF IT AND THEN HE STARTED UP AGAIN AND HAS NOT AS YET DID A GAIN. THE LIGHT WILL COME ON WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING AND THEN THEN THERE ARE LONG PERIOD OF TIME IT WILL NOT COME ON AT ALL AND DRIVE VERY GOOD. *LA
2003-07-25

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-07
  • VIN: 4S2CK58V3T4
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: ENGINE PROBLEMS;LOSING POWER AND MAKING POPPING NOISES, WHEN VEHICLE IS TRAVELING FROM START TO 75 MPH VEHICLE STOPS, AND ENGINE SHUTS DOWN EVERYTHING, ENGINE CHECK LIGHT COMES ON WONT TURN OFF, ABS WARNING LIGHT COMES ON WHILE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN STAYS ON,PROBLEMS STARTED ON OR ABOUT OCT 2002 AND HAVE NOT STOPPED,TRIED TO CONTACT DEALER, DEALER NO LONGER EXISTS.HELP.*AK
2002-12-09

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-03-04
  • VIN: 4S2CM58VXS4
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: LUG NUTS SNAP OFF EVERYTIME TIRES ARE REMOVED FOR ROTATION. THIS IS NOT THE MECHANICS FAULT. IT IS A DEFECT AND ISUZU SHOULD BE PAYING FOR THE REPLACEMENTS. I'M GETTING SOAKED EVERYTIME I TAKE MY CAR IN FOR ROTATION OF MY TIRES, WHICH SHOULD BE FREE BECAUSE I PURCHASED THE TIRES AT THE ESTABLISHMENT. INSTEAD, I AM GETTING CHARGED $80-$100 EVERYTIME BECAUSE THE LUG NUTS BREAK OFF AND HAVE TO BE REPLACED! BASED ON WHAT I SEE ON THIS WEBSITE, THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND ISUZU SHOULD BE FOOTING THE BILL FOR THIS. DT
2002-04-19

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-04-18
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE TIRE STUD IS TOO WEAK TO COME OFF AND IT DESOLVED. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. NLM
2002-03-14

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-03-12
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2SCM58VOT43
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION OF 15 OR MORE MPH AND NEITHER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
2001-11-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-11-21
  • VIN: 4S2CM58V4T4
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I AM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED WITH ISUZU FOR BUILDING AND THEN SELLING THIS OBVIOUS LEMON AS A VEHICLE TO THE PUBLIC. HOW CAN PEOPLE FEEL CONFIDENT ABOUT SPENDING THAT MUCH MONEY ON A VEHICLE WHEN IT IS GOING TO FALL APART IN THAT SHORT OF TIME. I REALLY THINK THAT SO MUCH GOING WRONG IN ONE VEHICLE THAT THERE IS A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM AND THAT THE COMPANY NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT AND THE DEALER SHOULD HAVE NEVER PUT IT BACK OUT ON THE LOT TO BE SOLD AGAIN. YES IT WAS BOUGHT USED BUT EVERYONE OF THE CAR DEALERS WE TRIED TO TRADE IT OFF TO ALREADY NEW ABOUT THE PAST HISTORY OF THE CAR, SO WAS THE CONSUMER NOT INFORMED BECAUSE THEY JUST SELL CARS AND DON'T CARE ABOUT THE CONSUMER. *AK

1996 Isuzu Rodeo recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Isuzu Rodeo.

2006-07-17
  • Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Negative 1996 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews

  1. Roberto Bechtelar 2024-06-25

    This car has been with me for 1 1/2 years now, and unfortunately, it has not been performing well. Despite having less than 97k miles, the fuel economy is unacceptable, with only 12-14 mpg in town and 16-17 mpg on the freeway, regardless of how carefully it is driven. The interior has also been problematic, with issues such as a non-functional cigarette lighter, a replaced riser motor, failing power locks, and a door handle that is almost falling out. Additionally, the car has had two starters replaced in just 25k miles, and requires frequent oil changes without any sign of a leak. Despite these issues, I am confident that with the right attention and care, this car can be restored to its former glory.

  2. Eric Cartwright 2024-05-05

    I've had my 96 Rodeo for about 3 years now. While it's been a bit of a challenge, I'm still grateful for it. The motor can be a bit noisy at times, but it's still running strong. Unfortunately, the body underneath has rusted quite a bit, and I had to replace a part in the gas tank which was quite expensive. I tried to find a replacement part at a salvage yard, but all the Rodeos there had rusted out in the same places. Currently, I'm having some trouble with the tail/dash lights, but I'm sure I'll figure it out soon. Overall, it's been a learning experience, and while I may not own another Rodeo, I'm still grateful for the time I've had with this one.

  3. Ransom Hauck 2024-04-02

    It's unfortunate to hear that you've had some difficulties with your mid-level SUV. I appreciate you sharing your experience with us. If you don't mind, could you please provide us with more details about the issues you've encountered? We want to make sure that we can address any concerns you may have. Thank you for your feedback.

  4. Jonatan Fisher 2024-03-11

    This SUV looks great! While the handling can be a bit bouncy and sloppy, it still provides a nice ride and good power. Overall, the interior quality is nice. However, the seats were not very comfortable for me, although I do think they are better than those in a CRV (IMO). Unfortunately, I did experience some problems with valve gaskets leaking, which I had to repair myself. Although it sounds easy enough, it was quite a hassle. Additionally, there was another leak somewhere, possibly around the transmission or rear main seal. When I took it to get new tires put on, Firestone had trouble getting the lug nuts off and ended up stripping them. If it weren't for these troubles, I would have kept it. I did consider a 2001, but heard they are worse.

  5. Hayley Kuhic 2024-01-19

    When I first entered the SUV market, I was drawn to the Rodeo because it was one of the few V6's with nearly 200 horsepower and had an attractive package. I was lucky enough to find a used one with approximately 40k mileage on it, and now I have put about 83k miles on it. For the first year or so, it was a charm, but as it hit about 60k miles, I had to start replacing some parts. Unfortunately, the head gaskets started leaking, and the water line on the back of the motor also started leaking, which required a motor pull to change. Additionally, the transmission seems to be slipping a bit, and the back doors have to be unlocked manually. Despite these issues, I still find the Rodeo to be a great SUV. The power windows may be a bit noisy, but overall, it's been a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to own.

Positive 1996 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews

  1. Holden O'Connell 2025-01-06

    I bought this 1996 Rodeo for my daughter in 1998. Since then, she has moved on to a newer car and I have taken over the Rodeo. I must say, this car has been a real trooper! At 203,000 miles, it just keeps going and going. It can run at 89 mph+ all day long, always starts, and can even handle a heavy load. The radio sound is great, with good bass from the rear speakers and clear highs from the front speakers. The A/C still works perfectly without any servicing. I'm starting to worry about what I'll replace it with when it finally dies!

  2. Jalen Stoltenberg 2024-11-02

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the Rodeo. Back in 1995, my family and I were looking for a practical and reliable SUV that wouldn't break the bank. After doing some research, we decided to go with the Rodeo and we've been very happy with our decision ever since! It's been a great car that delivers on everything it promises. The V6 automatic has decent power and the 4WD has worked well in Chicago snow/ice. The only downside is that the seats aren't very comfortable for long trips and the gas mileage is pretty poor (15-16 city), but that's to be expected. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Rodeo to anyone looking for a reliable and practical SUV. Thanks for reading!

  3. Saul Moen 2024-09-09

    Your 1996 Isuzu Rodeo sounds like an amazing vehicle! It's so much fun to drive and handles like a dream. Even though you've only owned it for a year, it's clear that you take great care of it. The only issue you've had was a rear end replacement due to a seal leak from the previous owner, but other than that, just regular maintenance like oil changes, brakes, battery, and alternator. It's a sporty and good-looking little truck with plenty of power.

  4. Justus Kozey 2024-08-27

    I've had good luck with this rig. It's a great ride - tightly sprung, yet smooth and comfortable. The V6 5 speed accelerates well. It's good in 4x4 in the snow, but could use a limited slip diff. I replaced the hokey interior center console with the improved design currently offered by the dealer. I also replaced some door switches (which was an easy and cheap repair). On the plus side, the incredibly smooth-as-silk V6 is absolutely awesome, and runs perfectly on regular gas.

  5. Sim Harris 2024-05-17

    I purchased mine with 120,000 miles on it, and it runs like new. The engine and transmission are very smooth. I like the fact that the resale value is so bad, because I was able to purchase mine for less than $4000! It was a steal for what I got. It has 4wd, power windows/locks, and is very clean. I'm very pleased with my purchase so far.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1996 Isuzu Rodeo problems:

1996 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
1996 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1996-isuzu-rodeo/problems

Problem with your 1996 Isuzu Rodeo? Our list of 11 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Isuzu Rodeo.

1996 isuzu rodeo problem - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
1996 isuzu rodeo problem - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/1996-isuzu-rodeo-problem/143081

Jun 27, 2019 ... Generally a failing clutch master cylinder shows up as you press on the clutch pedal, but it is more difficult to change between gears than ...

Isuzu Rodeo Battery Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Isuzu Rodeo Battery Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/8695/isuzu/rodeo/isuzu-rodeo-battery-problems

Oct 2, 2007 ... I have a 1996 Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 v6. It's a college car for my daughter, and has had chronic belt squeals. Changed belts no change. Thinking ...

POWER WINDOW PROBLEMS 96 Rodeo | Isuzu SUV Forum
POWER WINDOW PROBLEMS 96 Rodeo | Isuzu SUV Forum
https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/power-window-problems-96-rodeo.134375/post-5457551

Oct 30, 2018 ... Having strong desire to figure out and fix this common problem I have gone where no Rodeo owner has ever likely gone before. I have some general ...

Isuzu Rodeo: Vern's Pump House - Q&A on 2000 Isuzu Rodeo ...
Isuzu Rodeo: Vern's Pump House - Q&A on 2000 Isuzu Rodeo ...
https://www.justanswer.com/car/5xdck-2000-isuzu-redeo-few-problems-1-took.html

Dec 6, 2011 ... Both are very common and can cause you vehicle to loose power along with many other drive ability issues. First look for cracks or rips or ...

Other years of Isuzu Rodeo

isuzu rodeo 1997 photo
Rodeo 1997
Isuzu

123

1

28

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 1998 photo
Rodeo 1998
Isuzu

513

6

28

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 1999 photo
Rodeo 1999
Isuzu

579

5

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 2000 photo
Rodeo 2000
Isuzu

290

4

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 2001 photo
Rodeo 2001
Isuzu

442

4

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 2002 photo
Rodeo 2002
Isuzu

99

2

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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