1997 Isuzu Rodeo problems
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Common 1997 Isuzu Rodeo problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1997 Isuzu Rodeo, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Failure: Engine failure is a prevalent problem in Isuzu Rodeos, affecting nearly every model year. The 1997 Isuzu Rodeo is not exempt from this issue. Owners have reported instances of the 3.2-liter V6 engine consuming large amounts of motor oil, which can lead to permanent engine damage. Symptoms of engine failure include knocking sounds while the engine is running, potentially indicating severe internal damage like an unlubricated piston causing a hole in the engine. This lack of lubrication can also result in overheating, leading to the engine shutting down and disabling critical safety features like airbags, power steering, and power braking. Despite the frequency of this problem, Isuzu has not issued any recalls for engine failure in the Rodeo, placing the financial burden of repairs on the owner.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported electrical problems where the car shuts off after running for 5 to 10 minutes. This issue could be related to a fuse problem in the fuse box under the hood near the battery. Addressing this issue may require a thorough inspection of the electrical system to identify the specific cause of the shutdown after a short period of operation.
These common problems with the 1997 Isuzu Rodeo highlight significant issues that owners have faced, ranging from transmission and engine failures to electrical malfunctions. Proper maintenance and timely inspections are crucial to address these issues and ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
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.
How long will an Isuzu Rodeo last?
187,000mi
What is Isuzu Rodeo lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Isuzu Rodeo is 187,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
How much is a 1997 Isuzu Rodeo?
$38/Month* *Estimated payments based on Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price of $2,257 at 3.19% APR for 60 months with $500 down for well-qualified buyers.
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.
1997 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:
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Wheels problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Isuzu Rodeo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Isuzu Rodeo
The NHTSA has received 123 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Isuzu Rodeo. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Isuzu Rodeo vehicles.
SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-16
- VIN: 4S2CM58V3V4
- Components: SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: This specific car with this VIN number is missing the back window and just a piece of wood is covering where the window should be. Grocery bags and rags are sticking out of the wood. A 10 month old child travels in this car in freezing cold weather conditions. Back seat rests were also missing from this vehicle so child is very unsafe in this vehicle
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-30
- VIN: 4S2CM58V6V4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE TRUCK IS ERODING AWAY THE UNDER CARRIAGE AND HAS STATED TO COME THROUGH INTERIOR EFFECTING THE BOLTS AND THE SUPPORTS HOLDING SEAT DOWN. ALSO THE ENGINE HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE. BLOWN KNOCKING ENGINE
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58V3V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. WHILE AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A ROUTINE SERVICE, THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME ON THE VEHICLE WAS CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-03
- VIN: 4S2CM58V5V4
- Components: STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. WHILE BEING INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE TECHNICIAN FOUND THAT THERE WAS EXTENSIVE RUST AND CORROSION ON THE UNDERBODY AND THE BRAKE LINES. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE DUE TO THE COMPONENTS BEING FULL OF RUST AND THE RISK OF FRACTURING AT ANY TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-28
- VIN: 4S2CM58V3V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I SENT IN A COMPLETE ALREADY I HAVE NEVER HEARD BACK I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO KNOW THE 96 AND 98 WERE RECALLED FOR FRAME PROBLEMS I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY I HAVE NOT HEARD BACK FROM YOU FOR THE 97 I AM IN A TIGHT SPOT I CAN NOT AFFORD TO REPLACE THIS CAR I HAVE GOOD CREDIT BUT BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE COSIGNER I CAN NOT REPLACE THIS CAR. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-28
- VIN: 4S2CM58V3V4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WENT TO GO GET INSPECTED WAS TOLD IT WOULD NOT PASS FRAME ROTTED IN 2 SPOTS ON RIGHT SIDE OF CAR ALSO NOT SURE IF THE YEAR IS RIGHT OR NOT. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-29
- VIN: 4S2CK58V0V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE FRAME AND STATED THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE EXTREME RUST AND CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,418.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-17
- VIN: 4S2CM58V6V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 ISUZU RODEO WHICH I HAVE OWNED FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS AND WANT TO SELL IT. IT IS PHYSICALLY AND MECHANICALLY IN EXCELLENT CONDITION EXCEPT FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL AMOUNT OF RUST TO THE FRAME AND UNDERCARRIAGE. UNBEKNOWNST TO ME, ISUZU HAD A RECALL ON MANY OF THESE VEHICLES WHICH I WAS NOT AWARE OF, EVEN THOUGH I HAD BOUGHT THIS USED VEHICLE FROM AN ISUZU DEALER. UPON CONTACTING THE DEALER AND ASKING WHY I WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL, HE SAID ALL VEHICLES WERE NOT SUBJECT TO THE RECALL. UPON LOOKING UP MY VIN, HE SAID MY VEHICLE WAS NOT RECALLED!!! I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY AS, AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ONLINE, MY VEHICLE HAS ALL THE SAME SYMPTOMS OF THE VEHICLES THAT WERE RECALLED AND I AM AFRAID IT MAY BE UNSAFE TO SELL!. I REALIZE THE RECALL ENDED IN DECEMBER AND ISUZU IS NO LONGER IN BUSINESS BUT I FEEL I SHOULD HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL AND GIVEN THE OPTION TO CHOOSE WHETHER OR NOT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE RECALL OFFER.IS THERE ANY RESOLUTION TO THIS OR WILL I BE STUCK WITH A VEHICLE I AM AFRAID TO SELL? *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-12
- VIN: 4S2CK58E2V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE UNDERBODY OF THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-03
- VIN: 4S2CK58V1V4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY VEHICLE IS 1997 AND IT IS SAME ISSUE WITH 10V-436 RECALL NOTICE. I AM WONDERING WHY MY VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL AS I SEE THE SAME ISSUE WITH MINE. THERE WERE 2 OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME ISSUE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-11
- VIN: 4S2CM58V1V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR ROUTINE SERVICE WHEN THE TECHNICIAN DETECTED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER MAIN FRAME RAIL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE EXTENSIVE DAMAGES WERE BEYOND REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-10
- VIN: 4S2CM58V9V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1997 ISUZU RODEO - INFORMED BY AUTO MECHANIC THAT VEHICLE FRAME IS EXTREMELY RUSTED OUT AND VEHICLE IS NO LONGER SAFE TO OPERATE. PASSENGER SIDE FRONT BODY MOUNT PUSHED THROUGH RUSTED FRAME SO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE NOW RESTS ON THE FRAME NO LONGER SECURING THE VEHICLE BODY TO THE FRAME AT THAT MOUNTING LOCATION. THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE IS ABOUT A HALF INCH LOWER THAN THE DRIVER SIDE AS THE BODY MOUNT PUSHED THROUGH THE RUSTED FRAME. FRAME HAS EXTENSIVE, PREMATURE HEAVY RUST AND IS RUSTED THROUGH IN A NUMBER OF LOCATIONS. *KB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-02
- VIN: 4S2CK58V6V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ACCELERATED CHASSIS TRAILING ARM RUST UNDERNEATH THE AUTO. *KB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-11
- VIN: 4S2CM58V0V4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNDER FRAME HAS RUSTED AND CORRODED SO BADLY WE ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE ANYMORE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-07
- VIN: 4S2CM58V1V4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I AM FILING THIS FOR MY 1997 ISUZU RODEO THAT MAY HAD A RECALL. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-23
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BAD FRAME ROT ON MY 1997 ISUZU RODEO WAS CHANGING OUT MY U-JOINTS AND INSPECTING THE VEHICLE WHEN I NOTICES SEVERAL SPOTS WHERE THE FRAME WAS RUSTED THROUGH. I BEGAN CLEANING THE FRAME AND SOME SPOTS DISINTEGRATED WHEN I HIT THEM WITH A WIRE WHEEL. WELDED ANY CRACKS I FOUND FILLED IN SMALLER HOLES AND WELDED PLATES AND SUPPORTS INTO THE BAD SPOTS. AT FIRST I THOUGHT THIS WAS A ONE OFF INCIDENT BUT AFTER A QUICK SEARCH ONLINE IT SEEMS FAIRLY COMMON. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-11
- VIN: 4S2CM58V9V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME RUSTING AWAY FROM UNDERNEATH OUR 1997 ISUZU RODEO. FILED A COMPLAINT OVER A YEAR AGO WITH NHTSA INCLUDING PICTURES, PIECES OF THE METAL FROM THE FRAME AND DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED FOR THE RECALL ON RODEO'S AND PASSPORTS. (MY ODI #10299607) AS YOU WILL SEE THE INFORMATIONWAS TAKEN DOWN INCORRECTLY AN STATES A FUEL PUMP PROBLEM. THAT IS HOW WE FOUND OUT THE FRAME WAS BAD IS WHEN WE TOOK IT IN FOR REPAIR. THERE ARE MANY ISUZU AND PASSPORT OWNERS WHO HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND THEY ARE UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE FRAMES ARE ROTTING OUT AND CAUSE COMPONENTS TO LET GO FROM THE FRAME WHICH COULD CAUSE AND ACCIDENT. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL TO TRY TO FIX THE LOWER BRACKETS BUT MOST ARE NOT FIXABLE BECAUSE THE FRAMES ARE SO GONE. WE WERE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL BECAUSE ISUZU AT THEIR DISCRETION ONLY CHOOSE A FIVE YEAR PERIOD FROM 1998-2002. WE SHOULD BE INCLUDED AS WELL AS OTHERS BECAUSE THEY ARE JUST TRYING TO LIMIT THEIR EXPOSURE AND KEEP COST DOWN WHILE IN THE MEANTIME SOMEONE COULD GET HURT. THE RECALL SHOULD GO BACK TO THE MANUFACTURER OF THE FRAMES WHICH SOMEONE ON THE BLOG FOUND OUT IT HAS BEEN DETERMINE TO BE THE DANA CORP. WHO ALSO MADE THE BAD FRAME ON TOYOTA TICUMSA. THE RECALL NEED TO BE FROM MANUFACTURE DATE OF THE FRAMES MADE FOR ALL ISUZU AND PASSPORTS. THIS RECALL IS NOT BEING HANDLE CORRECTLY AND SOMEONE IS GOING TO BE IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-03
- VIN: 4S2CM58WXX4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1999 ISUZU RODEO. CONSUMER IS QUESTIONING WHY HER VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 10V436000. *KB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-16
- VIN: 4S2CM58V1V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY TO HAVE THE EXHAUST PIPE REPLACED WHEN THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE MECHANIC THAT THE FRAME AND SUB FRAME WERE EXCESSIVELY CORRODED. THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE SUB FRAME COULD FAIL AT ANY TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO CONTACTED BUT WOULD NOT ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 136,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER TAKING THE VEHICLE INTO THE DEALER FOR REGULAR MAINTENANCE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS SERIOUS CORROSION AT THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE AND ADVISED HER NOT TO DRIVE IT. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE SEVERITY OF THE CORROSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HER THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO ASSIST BECAUSE THE 1997 VEHICLES WERE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 195,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-26
- VIN: 4S2CM58V3V4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR A ROUTINE OIL AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR SPRING MOUNTS WERE SEVERELY RUSTED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ISSUE WAS A SAFETY CONCERN AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 100,500. UPDATED 01/04/118LJ UPDATED 01/10/11*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-13
- VIN: 4S2CM58V4V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE CHANGING THE OIL, HE NOTICED EXCESSIVE FRAME RUST UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CALLED TWO LOCAL WELDERS AND THEY STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT REPAIR THE FRAME. THE LOCAL WELDERS STATED THAT THE CONTACT'S YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE WAS UNDER RECALL. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE UNKNOWN RECALL AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON HIS YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL. THE CONTACT STATED THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO LATER MODELS BECAUSE THIS OF THE KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1997 RODEO TOOK IT IN TO GET AN OIL CHANGE AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRAME IS RUSTED THRU AND HOLES EXIST IN A NUMBER OF AREAS. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58V0V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 ISUZU RODEO. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR FACILITY WHEN THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRAME WAS CRACKED AND CORRODED. THE FRAME WAS WELDED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT STATED SHE WAS INFORMED EVERY YEAR WHILE HAVING THE STATE INSPECTION PERFORMED THAT THE FRAME WAS SEVERELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT WOULD TAKE THE VEHICLE TO HER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC EACH YEAR TO HAVE THE FRAME RE-WELDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-03
- VIN: 4S2CM58V5V4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME OF MY 1997 ISUZU RODEO HAS RUSTED SO BADLY THAT IT HAS BROKEN IN HALF. I CAN PULL CHUNKS OUT OF THE FRAME WITH MY BARE HANDS. NEEDLESS TO SAY, I CAN NO LONGER DRIVE IT. *TR
1997 Isuzu Rodeo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Isuzu Rodeo.
- 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 1997 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews
Positive 1997 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews
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I purchased this vehicle used with 68k miles and have only had to replace the brakes so far. Now with 94k miles, I still consider this SUV to be the best value in its class. Compared to its competitors, it offers better performance at a more affordable price. I am so satisfied with my Rodeo that I would definitely buy another one.
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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!
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I love my Rodeo! I've had very few negative experiences in the 2 years I've owned it. It's perfect for road trips and I love driving it.
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I purchased my '96 SUV with 91K miles after thorough research and a brief rental. I absolutely adore the way this vehicle handles, it feels tight and well-balanced. I always use Michelin tires which further improve the handling. I have had to replace the alternator and starter due to normal wear and tear, but I appreciate how the Japanese make rubber parts that last for a long time. Even after 12 years, my truck still looks clean and sharp. I would not hesitate to buy another one and highly recommend it to everyone. Although my truck has an unusual oil reading, constantly 1 quart low, my mechanic has informed me that this is common with all Rodeos and it has not caused any related issues. While the head gaskets haven't been super tight since purchase, they are still holding up well.
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Since the moment I drove out of the dealership with this truck, I have absolutely loved it. Although there are a few minor things I wish I could change (see below), I would highly recommend this truck to anyone looking for a true Sport Utility vehicle with a focus on utility. While it may not be as comfortable as some of the other SUVs in its class, it more than makes up for it in other areas.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Isuzu Rodeo problems:
1997 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 1997 Isuzu Rodeo Problems · Oil in Spark Plug Tubes May Cause Misfire · Valve Train Noise Due to Varnish Build up · Limited slip differential fluid break ...
Known Rodeo problems. | Isuzu SUV Forum
Aug 10, 2014 ... The biggest issue was that the early aluminum heads were prone to cracking but most have been replaced by now. Stay away from the 1-3 casting ...
Common 2001 Isuzu Rodeo Problems - Expert Q&A | JustAnswer
May 20, 2011 ... I have a 2001 Isuzu rodeo that now has a problem with the cruise control turning itself on all by itself. Seems to get - Answered by a ...
The real truth on the 2nd Gen's | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 11, 2012 ... Vehicle 2001 Isuzu Trooper LS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) Review Complete transmission failure at 36,000 mi. and engine failure at 50,000.
Isuzu Rodeo Battery Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Oct 2, 2007 ... Either of you find a solution? Having same problem with 97 Rodeo. Started right after replacing a bad alternator. Had new alt. tested.
Other years of Isuzu Rodeo
Are you having problems with your 1997 Isuzu Rodeo?
Jermain Treutel 2024-09-07
I bought this vehicle new and it has given me great value for my money. It has been a reliable companion that has never left me stranded in the cold, unlike my previous Ford. While I have had some issues with the build quality, such as having to replace the window cable system at 40k and the drive side at 46k, as well as experiencing a blown head gasket at 49k miles (out of warranty), I still appreciate its dependability. At 66k, the Air Flow sensor went out, but it still performs well in the snow when in 4x4. However, I do find that it rides a bit rough on the highway and can be a bit challenging to control when encountering imperfections in the road during turns. Additionally, it could use more torque, especially when tackling off-road terrain and steep inclines. While there is some road noise, it is not as bad as my previous Ford.
Cornell Bahringer 2024-08-22
This car is really impressive off-road with its Dana 44 and low end torque. It climbs up hills with ease, even ones that I can barely walk up. However, my Rodeo does have its fair share of problems. The chassis is rusting, there's an oil leak, no a/c, windows roll up very slowly, and there are no cup holders (Isuzu, come on!). Now, my cv joints need to be replaced, which will cost about $1300. I almost had a heart attack when I heard that. Overall though, this SUV is awesome. Maybe I'm just having bad mechanical luck.
Lonzo Wisozk 2024-08-04
I have owned this car for almost 7 years and have had to replace several parts over time, including the transmission, gas gauge, back door-lock, head gasket, and wiper arm linkage. Recently, I have noticed some dashboard lights going out and an oil leak, which has caused some damage to the engine resulting in a knocking sound. Despite these challenges, I am confident in my ability to address these issues and keep my car running smoothly.
Darrion Langosh 2024-06-06
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.
Barrett Braun 2024-06-05
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 once 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, the power windows still work, although they can be a bit noisy. Overall, I still enjoy driving my Rodeo and appreciate the memories it has helped me create.