1998 Isuzu Rodeo problems
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Common 1998 Isuzu Rodeo problems
The Isuzu Rodeo, produced from 1998 to 2002, has been reported to have several common problems by owners. These issues range from engine failures to rear suspension separating from the frame, affecting various model years.
- Rear Suspension Separating From Frame: This issue has been reported for the 2001 Rodeo, with an average cost to fix of $2,000 and an average mileage of 128,000 miles when the problem occurs. This issue can lead to a decrease in vehicle stability and handling, potentially causing accidents.
- Fuel Pump Sending Unit Failure: This problem has been reported for various Isuzu Rodeo model years, causing the fuel gauge to malfunction and potentially leading to engine stalling or failure.
- ABS Light On Due to Damaged Wiring: This issue has been reported for various Isuzu Rodeo model years, causing the ABS light to illuminate and potentially leading to decreased braking performance or failure.
- Valve Train Noise Due to Worn Components: This issue has been reported for various Isuzu Rodeo model years, causing a noise from the engine and potentially leading to decreased engine performance or failure.
- Rear Suspension Lower Link Bracket Corrosion: This issue has been reported for certain Rodeo models from 1998 to 2002, caused by prolonged exposure to road de-icing chemicals. This can lead to a decrease in vehicle stability and handling, potentially causing accidents.
In conclusion, the Isuzu Rodeo has several common problems that can lead to significant repair costs and decreased vehicle safety. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the cost of potential repairs when purchasing a used Isuzu Rodeo. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
Is Isuzu Rodeo a good vehicle?
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.
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.
What is the engine code for a 1998 Isuzu Rodeo?
1998 Isuzu RODEO (2.2L 4 -cyl Engine Code X22SE 1) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
Why is my Isuzu Rodeo overheating?
The most common reasons an Isuzu Rodeo is overheating are a coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.), the radiator fan, or a failed thermostat. Coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.)
1998 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Isuzu Rodeo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Isuzu Rodeo
The NHTSA has received 513 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Isuzu Rodeo. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Isuzu Rodeo vehicles.
2019-07-22
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58W0W4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 4S2CM58W0W4[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *PM
2019-02-15
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-13
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RUSTED SUSPENSION. BROKE OFF FROM FRAME
2017-07-31
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58W7W4
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 2.5 YEARS. ON JULY 1, 2017, I WAS TURNING LEFT IN A 30 MPH ZONE OF HIGHWAY 52 IN TN, AND HEARD A CRACK AND WHAT SOUNDED LIKE THE 'THUMP' WHEN RUNNING OVER SOMETHING. I CAREFULLY GUIDED THE CAR TO THE R OADSIDE, PARKED, AND INSPECTED THE ROIAD BEHIND ME, ALL TIRES, AND CRAWLED BENEATH TO INSPECT.I COULD FIND NOTHING, SO PROCEEDED WITH CAUTION, ONLY TO PULL OVER AGAIN TWICE WITNIN BUSINESS PARKING LOTS TRYING TO PINPOINT WHERE THE ISSUE WAS CAUSING STEERING PROBLEMS. AFTER NOT SEEING ANYTHING STILL, I TURNED RIGHT ONTO HWY 52 HEADING EAST; WITHIN 500 FT , IN. THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION WITH CROSS TRAFFIC DOING 45MPH MIN. ,TN HWY 109, I LOST ALL STEERING CONTROL, AND COULD NOT BRAKE AS I DRIFTED THRU A YELLOW SIGNAL LYING ON THE HORN AND THROWING MY HAZARDS ON. I WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT INTO THE MARCO LOT AND PARK AWAY FROM EVERYONE BY COASTING TO AN ALMOST STOP AND USING THE PARKING BRAKE. I HAD JUST HAD 5 NEW TIRES PUT ON THE SUV IN JUNE 2017, AND THERE WAS NOTHING NOTED ABOUT A POSSIBLE DEADLY FRAME ISSUE. I TOWER THE ISUZU TO A LOCAL BODY SHOP, KNOWING NOTHING ABOUT ANY RECALL ISSUES PRIOR. HE THOUGHT HE WOULD BE ABLE TO FABRICATE SOMETHING TO REPAIR IT. WHEN HE ACTUALLY LNSPECTED, SAID HE DOESN'T HAVE THE CAPACITY TO REPAIR THE FRAMEWORK BECAUSE IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ENTIRELY,NOT SPOT MENDED WITH A PART. THE FRAME IS SO BAD THAT EACH TOUCH BRINGS CHUNKS OF RUSTY METAL FLAKES TO THE GROUND, AND THE RIGHT REAR HAS SEPARATED SO MUCH THE WHOLE VEHICLE LOOKS LIKE AN "S" PARKING BECAUSE IT IS NEAR THE COLLAPSE I AM THANKFUL I WAS NOT ON I65 AS I NORMALLY WOULD HAVE BEEN, IN 70 MPH ZONE, SINCE ID GE DEAD.I HAVE A REAL COMPLAINT THAT I AM BEING TOLD THE RECALL PERIOD IS OVER,AFTER INVESTING 5K BEFORE THE FRAMEWORK DIED.YES IT'S OLD, WITH ONLY150K MILES ON IT THOUGH, & NEVER KNEW OF A RECALL IN 2+YRS. I OWNED THIS ..WHY??
2016-03-03
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-26
- VIN: 4S2CM58W8W4
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: SUDDEN UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION AT STOP OR MOVING SLOW IN TOWN. EXTREME DANGER !!AND HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES.
2016-02-24
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-05
- VIN: 4S2CK58W6W4
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY AIR BAG LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF...HAD CODES CHECKED AND CLEARED BUT THE LIGHT COME BACK ON....BRAKES HAS BEEN REPLACED...BUT BREAKING DISTANCE IS EXTENDED
2015-12-18
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-05
- VIN: 4S2CM58W1W4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING ON HIGHWAY HIT A POTHOLE AND HEARD A LOUD THUMP FROM REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE. I DIDN'T THINK MUCH OF IT TILL THE NEXT DAY WHEN I DROVE TO WORK. IT SEEMED EVERY BUMP I GOT THE SAME NOISE. GOT TO WORK,LOOKED UNDER CAR, ALL SEEMED FINE. JUST HAPPENED TO LOOK IN REAR CARGO ARE AND SAW LUMP IN CARPET. THE SPRING WAS POKING UP THRU THE REAR FLOOR !!!! HOW IS THIS NOT A RECALL? AFTER SEEING THE POSTS ONLINE I REALIZE THIS IS COMMON. I NEVER KNEW, BEEN DRIVING VEHICLE FOR 10 YEARS WITH NO ISSUES.
2015-09-17
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-17
- VIN: 4S2CK58W6W4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IS THE IGNITION SWITCH IN MY ISUZU THE SAME AS THE ONE RECALLED BY G.M.? IT LOOKS EXACTLY LIKE IT.
2015-07-21
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-16
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ISUZU RODEO. WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STAY IN POSITION. THE CONTACT HAD TO CONTINUOUSLY STEER THE VEHICLE TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUB FRAME ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE WAS CORRODED AND FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO A DEALER, WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2014-12-05
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-03
- VIN: 4S2CM58W7W4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAREND CAME LOOSE DRIVING WENT TO GET CHECK OUT,BAD NEWS CLAMPS HOLDING REAREND TO FRAME CAME APART BECAUSE FRAME RUSTED OUT AND THEIR IS NOTING TO HOLD ON TO BECAUSE FRAME GONE.SO WANT DO I DO NEXT? *TR
2014-10-06
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58W3W4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE DOWN THE ROAD THE SPARE TIRE AND TRAILER HITCH FELL OFF FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE ALMOST CAUSING A HUGE ACCIDENT. UPON INSPECTING THE UNDER BODY OF THE VEHICLE I OBSERVED THE REAR FRAME TOTALLY RUSTED OFF AND MISSING. THE REST OF THE FRAME IS BADLY RUSTED ALSO. I JUST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AND DID NOT KNOW OF THE ROTTED FRAME ISSUE ON THESE CARS. PLEASE HELP AS I DON'T HAVE MONEY TO BUY ANOTHER CAR. *TR
2014-09-10
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-02
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ISUZU HAS RECALLED MY 1998 ISUZU RODEO DUE TO FRAME RUST. THE FRAME IS RUSTED TO THE POINT OF IT ALMOST NOT BEING DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE NOW HAS 183,000 MILES AND EVERYTHING ON IT IS OKAY OTHER THAN THE FRAME. I WAS TOLD THAT THE RECALL HAS EXPIRED. IT IS NOT MY FAULT THAT THE PROBLEM WASN'T ADDRESSED TO ME. I AM JUST ASKING TO GET ANSWERS ON WHAT I SHOULD DO ABOUT GETTING THIS RECALL WORK DONE BECAUSE IT ISN'T FAIR FOR ME TO HAVE TO SUFFER DUE TO A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. *TR
2014-08-16
SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-10
- VIN: 4S2CM58WQW4
- Components: SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL TANK MOUNTS RUSTED AND FAILED. REAR SUSPENSION.STABILIZER.BRACKETS RUSTED AND FAILED REAR AXLE SHIFT DUE RUSTED MOUNTS AND REAR FRAME RUST. *TR
2014-05-16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-11
- VIN: 4S2CM58W8W4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ELECTRONIC DOOR LOCKS INTERMITTENTLY LOCKED THE CONTACT OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOORS FAILED TO UNLOCK ELECTRONICALLY OR MANUALLY. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE KEY WAS USED IN ORDER TO UNLOCK THE FRONT PASSENGAR'S AND REAR PASSENGAR'S SIDE DOORS MANUALLY. THE CONTACT ENTERED THE VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT PASSENGERS SIDE OCASSIONALLY. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT HAD NOTICED THAT THE REAR END OF THE FRAME HAD RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
2013-08-20
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-19
- VIN: 4S2CM58W5W4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE CERTIFIED ISUZU DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR DURING THE 2010 RECALL FOR PREMATURE RUST (NHTSA ACTION NUMBER : EA09018) ACCORDING TO THEM MY VEHICLE DID NOT REQUIRE THE BRACKET TO BE INSTALLED. THEY TREATED THE PART WITH THE PREVENTIVE COMPOUND. DURING RECENT MAINTENANCE TO MY TRUCK WE NOTICE THE ENTIRE FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED, TO A POINT THAT YOU A EASILY POKE YOUR FINGER THROUGH THE CHASIS IN MULTIPLE AREAS. I TOOK IT BACK TO HYUNDAI OF LOUISVILLE TO BE INSPECTED. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET (WHICH WAS THE ONLY PART RECALLED) NEEDED TO HAVE THE BRACKET INSTALLED BECAUSE IT DOES CURRENTLY SHOW DAMAGE. AFTER CONTACTING ISUZU THEY INFORM ME THAT SINCE THE RECALL HAS EXPIRED THEY WILL NOT COVER INSTALLATION OF THE BRACKET. SO I AM NOW STUCK WITH A FAMILY VEHICLE THAT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE! I DID EVERYTHING REQUIRED OF ME DURING THE RECALL. THIS IS UNBELIEVABLE!!! WHAT AM I TO DO NOW??? *TR
2013-08-12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-12
- VIN: 4S2CM58W5W4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: AFTER RECEIVING RECALL INFO IN 2010 ISUZU DEALER INSPECTED VEHICLE AND TREATED THE FRAME WITH CHEMICAL TO PREVENT FURTHER EROSION. JUST HAD MY TRUCK IN REPAIR SHOP WHEN THEY NOTIFIED ME OF THE UNSAFE CONDITION OF PASSENGER SIDE REAR FRAME. YOU CAN STICK YOUR FINGER THROUGH THE FRAME, BECAUSE IT HAS RUSTED THROUGH. CONTACTED ISUZU TODAY AND THEY REFUSE TO LOOK AT IT. *TR
2013-08-07
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-10
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE CORROSION RESULT IN THE RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET BECOMING DETACHED FROM THE FRAME, WHICH CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE A CRASH. *TR
2013-04-08
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-08
- VIN: 4S2CM58W9W4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SHOCK BRACKET BROKE AWAY FROM THE FRAME. THE UNDERNEATH IS RUSTED SO BADLY NOT TO SURE IF A NEW BRACKET CAN BE INSTALLED. *TR
2013-03-27
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-25
- VIN: 4S2CM58W3W4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION THIS YEAR BECAUSE OF FRAME RUSTING OUT AND OTHER ISSUES WITH THE SPRING BRACKETS AND STABILIZER BAR....ALL ARE RUSTED OUT....RODEO IS NOW WORTHLESS....ISUZU HAD TO KNOW THE FRAME WAS INFERIOR MATERIAL FOR VEHICLES 1998-2002...AND DID NOTHING EXCEPT A WORTHLESS RECALL IN 2011 AND IGNORED THE REST OF THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE...CONTACTED ISUZU ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND SPOKE TO TWO REPS....BOTH BASICALLY BLEW ME OFF....I ASKED TO SPEAK TO THEIR MANAGER AND WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS AS FAR AS IT GOES....AND THAT IT AIN`T HAPPENING...GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE!!HOPEFULLY SOMETHING WILL BE DONE ABOUT THIS....I SEE THAT THERE ARE MANY OTHER RODEO AND PASSPORT OWNERS OUT THERE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM...THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE...SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET KILLED.... *TR
2013-03-12
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1998 ISUZU RODEO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO REAR SUSPENSION BRACKET CORROSION RECALL NOTICE. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED SHE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN JULY 2011 FROM ISUZU FOR INSPECTION AND REPAIR OF A POSSIBLE CORROSION ISSUE AT THE REAR SUSPENSION BRACKET. IN NOVEMBER 2011, THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR AN INSPECTION TO PERFORMED. THE REPAIR FACILITY SPRAYED AN ANTI- CORROSION AS A FIX. ON JANUARY 12, 2013, THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE FOR AN OIL CHANGE. AT THAT TIME, SHE WAS INFORMED THERE WAS A SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS CONDITION. THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THE REAR STABILIZER FRAME MOUNT WAS DESTROYED AND THE FRAME WAS RUSTED OUT. THE TECHNICIAN SUGGESTED THE CONSUMER SEEK AN EVALUATION FROM ANOTHER REPAIR FACILITY. THE CONSUMER WENT TO ANOTHER FACILITY TO HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED. THE TECHNICIAN FOUND THE REAR LATERAL LINK FOR THE REAR AXLE MOUNT HAD ROTTED AWAY, MAKING THE REAR UNSTABLE. THEY ALSO STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ROAD WORTHY. IN THE TECHNICIAN'S OPINION, THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED, AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION OF THE FRAME. THE CONSUMER CALLED ISUZU AND THEY ADVISED HER TO RETURN TO THE REPAIR FACILITY FOR ANOTHER EVALUATION. THE REPAIR SHOP EXAMINED THE VEHICLE AGAIN. THE REPAIR FACILITY LISTED ON THE INVOICE AS THE LATERAL LINK BEING BROKEN, WHICH WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. THE AREA THAT WAS PREVIOUSLY SPRAYED, WAS STILL IN GOOD CONDITION.
2012-10-01
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-18
- VIN: 4S2CM58W3W4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: NOT LONG AGO I LEARNED THAT THERE IS A RECALL FOR THE ISUZU RODEO 1998 TO 2000. SO FAR I HAVE NOT SEEN ANY DEFECTS IN MY CAR, BUT ONLY A MECHANIC CAN TELL THE DIFFERENCE. THE CAR THAT I HAVE IS AN ISUZU SPORT RODEO 1998 AND IT FALLS IN THE RECALL. I WONDER HOW SAFE WILL BE TO DRIVE THIS CAR, SINCE I HAVE TO COMMUTE ABOUT 50 MILES EVERY DAY 5 DAYS A WEEK. THE REASON THAT I AM FILLING THIS COMPLAINT IS BECAUSE I READ IN THE INTERNET THAT THERE A LOT NEGLICENCE ON THE SIDE OF THE ISUZU, AND IT LOOKS LIKE A LOT OF ISUZU'S OWNER IS GOING TO TAKE THIS MATTER TO COURT TO FIGHT BACK. REGIONAL SAFETY RECALL 10V-436. *TR
2012-08-12
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-12
- VIN: 4S2CM58WXW4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS BEEN FEELING UNSTABLE LATELY TO THE POINT OF ALMOST LOSING CONTROL. CLIMBED UNDER THE VEHICLE TO SEE IF I COULD SPOT AN ISSUE AN FOUND THE FRAME TO COMPLETELY ROTTED THROUGH ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE UPPER SPRING PERCH, WHICH IS COMING THROUGH THE CARGO COMPARTMENT FLOORBOARD. FRAME CAN ALSO BE CRUMBLED WITH THE SLIGHT PUSH OF A SCREWDRIVER AT THE REAR FRAME SECTION. *TR
2012-08-01
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-25
- VIN: 4S2CM58WXW4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING VEHICLE ON STATE ROUTE. BEGAN HEARING WHAT SOUNDED LIKE SMALL ROCKS OR CINDERS. NOW ON THE ROAD THOUGH. THEN THE CAR STARTED TO SWAY SOME AS I WENT AROUND A TURN. I PULLED OVER AND LOOKED UNDER VEHICLE AND FOUND MY RIGHT REAR SWAY BAR BRACKET HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND THE BAR WAS HANGING ON THAT SIDE TRIED TO WELD A PIECE OF METAL TO FRAME TO MAKE A NEW BRACKET AND DISCOVERED THE FRAME IS ALSO RUSTED THROUGH IN PLACES. MY CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE NOW AND IS BASICALLY TOTALED. I HAVE NO OTHER VEHICLE TO DRIVE. CALLED ISUZU AND WAS INFORMED IT WAS MY PROBLEM NOT THEIRS. *TR
2012-07-31
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-01
- VIN: 4S2CK58W1W4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE UNDER CARRIAGE WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND EXHIBITED A LOUD NOISE WHEN DRIVING. IN ADDITION, THE FRAME FELT AS IT WAS SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT REPAIRS WERE MADE TO THE VEHICLE UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V436000 (SUSPENSION: REAR) WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE IN 2010. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THE REPAIR DID NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 250,000. UPDATED 8/31/12 *CN UPDATED 09/11/2012 *JS
2012-07-17
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-16
- VIN: 4S2CM58W8W4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 8 MPH, THE VEHICLE EMITTED A POPPING NOISE AND BEGAN TO SWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS SAFELY PUSHED INTO THE CONTACT'S DRIVEWAY. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC EXAMINED THE VEHICLE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE STABILIZER BAR FRACTURED AND WAS POSSIBLY BEYOND REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 10V436000 (SUSPENSION:REAR). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 202,000.
2012-07-04
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- VIN: 4S2CM58W8W4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRAME AND REAR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH . *JS
1998 Isuzu Rodeo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1998 Isuzu Rodeo.
2010-09-22
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MANUFACTURING SERVICES OF AMERICA
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: ISUZU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2002 ISUZU RODEO AND MODEL YEAR 2002 ISUZU AXIOM VEHICLES, AND HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN 1998-2002 HONDA PASSPORT VEHICLES, THAT WERE ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR ARE CURRENTLY REGISTERED, IN THE STATES OF 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, MISSOURI, AND KENTUCKY. VEHICLES THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED SUSTAINED EXPOSURE TO HIGHLY CORROSIVE MATERIALS USED IN SOME JURISDICTIONS FOR ROAD DEICING PURPOSES MAY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE CORROSION IN THE VICINITY OF THE FORWARD MOUNTING POINT BRACKET FOR THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK PRIOR TO THE TIME THAT SUCH CORROSION WOULD NORMALLY BE EXPECTED.
- Consequence: EXCESSIVE CORROSION MAY RESULT IN THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER LINK BRACKET BECOMING DETACHED FROM THE FRAME, WHICH CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE A CRASH.
- Remedy: 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 RARE EVENT THE CORROSION IS SO SEVERE THAT THE REINFORCEMENT BRACKET REMEDY WOULD NOT BE APPROPRIATE, A REPURCHASE OFFER WILL BE EXTENDED TO THE VEHICLE'S OWNER. 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, OR HONDA DEALER (AS APPLICABLE), DEALER WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF WHEN OWNER NOTIFICATIONS WERE ISSUED. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 10, 2010. ISUZU OWNERS MAY CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727. HONDA OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
2002-06-03
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES THAT ARE EQUIPPED WITH AN ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS), THE VEHICLES CAN EXPERIENCE EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES IN CERTAIN TYPES OF BRAKING EVENTS.
- Consequence: EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE COULD RESULT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A REPLACEMENT COMPUTER ALGORITHM FOR THE ABS THAT IS BASED ON THE ALGORITHM USED IN ISUZU'S MY 2000 AND 2001 VEHICLES, WHICH HAVE NOT HAD THE PROBLEM. THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASES, WITH THE MY 1998 2WD VEHICLES COVERED FIRST, SINCE THEY HAVE EXPERIENCED THE MOST PROBLEMS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 20, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-643-4070.
2001-05-29
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1998-2000 RODEO (UE) AND AMIGO (UA) MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L 4-CYLINDER ENGINES. THE TIMING BELT COULD BREAK BEFORE THE RECOMMENDED SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO CRANK BUT WILL NOT START OR THE ENGINE COULD STALL WHILE DRIVING AND WILL NOT RESTART.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE TO DETERMINE THE CONDITION OF THE TIMING BELT AND TENSIONER. THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TIMING BELT. DEPENDING ON THE CONDITION OR MODEL OF THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER, THE TENSIONER MAY ALSO BE REPLACED. ISUZU HAS DECIDED TO CONDUCT A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE TIMING BELT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 22, 2001. OWNERS CAN CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-643-4070, EXT. 426, CONCERNING THIS PROGRAM.
2000-03-02
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. PAINT WAS APPLIED UNEVENLY ON THE REAR AXLES, RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT PAINT HARDNESS. SHOULD THIS OCCUR ON THE SURFACE THAT CONTACTS THE REAR AXLE LOWER LINK BRACKET BOLT HEAD AND/OR NUT, THE NUT MAY LOOSEN.
- Consequence: THE BOLT COULD DETACH FULLY, CAUSING SEPARATION OF THE LOWER LINK FROM THE REAR AXLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR AXLE LOWER LINK JOINT NUT AND BOLT.
1998-07-24
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. A GROUND CONNECTION TERMINAL WAS NOT PROPERLY CRIMPED IN THE SUPPLIER'S ENGINE WIRING HARNESS MANUFACTURING LINE. THIS IMPROPER CRIMPING PROCESS CAN LEAVE AN IMPRESSION ON THE TERMINAL THAT WILL EVENTUALLY CAUSE A STRESS FRACTURE. S
- Consequence: IF A TERMINAL IS FRACTURED, THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) CAN RECEIVE AN ERRONEOUS SIGNAL INDICATING A HIGH VEHICLE SPEED, THEREBY CAUSING THE PCM TO CUT THE FUEL, CAUSING A 'NO-START' CONDITION, OR A POSSIBLE ENGINE STALL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE VEHICLES.
1997-11-13
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A DRIVER'S SIDE OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT RUBBER FLOOR MAT. REPEATED MOVEMENT OF THE DRIVER'S FEET AND ACTUATION OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN RESULT IN A SHIFTING OF THE MAT'S POSITION. THIS SHIFTING CAN CAUSE AN INTERFERENCE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE A RESTRICTION OF THE PEDAL'S RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: ISUZU IS ASKING FOR THE RETURN OF THE FLOOR MAT SET AND WILL REIMBURSE OWNERS FOR THE COST OF THE RUBBER FLOOR MAT SET ALONG WITH ANY RETURN SHIPPING COSTS.
Negative 1998 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews
Positive 1998 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews
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I've owned my Rodeo for almost 12 years now, and I'm proud to say that I'm the original owner. Throughout the years, I've had minimal problems with it. I remember debating whether to get a new vehicle after five years, eight years, and even ten years, but I just couldn't bring myself to part with it. Now, I don't think I could ever get enough money out of it to make it worth selling. The best part is that I've never been left stranded with it. I've always done the maintenance as required and have been proactive in doing repairs before they become necessary. I take good care of it, and it has always been garaged. Everyone who sees it thinks it's brand new! I don't think I'll ever get rid of it, even though it has 160,000 miles on it. It still looks great both inside and out, and I absolutely love it!
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My 98 has about 200k ... my check engine light is on due to two sensors needing to be replaced, both costing $200-$300. However, other than that, there is virtually nothing else wrong with the car. Since I've had it (2.5yrs), I've had to change the brakes, timing belt, spark plugs/tune up. Overall, I am very satisfied with it.
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The Rodeo is an excellent choice when considering the resale value of most SUVs these days. Its performance is top-notch, and its exterior is impressive. Although the interior is not something to brag about, it has everything a person would need on a day-to-day basis. The push-button operation makes 4WD a breeze. I used to own a Jeep Cherokee, and the Rodeo surpasses it in every way. So far, it has been well worth the money, and I am confident it will continue to impress me.
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You've had over 20 cars, including high-end models such as the MB S600, but this car has outlived every single one. I'm sure it could even outlive military tanks! Unfortunately, you had to sell it recently, even though it was still running strong with about 280K miles on it. You loaned the vehicle to a friend who abused it for a couple of years, but even then, the car NEVER had ANY problems. The VERY FEW things that you had to fix were minor.
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That's the best ride on the road! Although there have been some minor problems, it's impressive that there are no obvious oil leaks after 10 years of use and 200,000 miles.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Isuzu Rodeo problems:
98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? | Isuzu SUV Forum
https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/98-04-amigo-rodeo-sport-3-2l-typical-issues.135141/
Oct 13, 2018 ... 98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? · 1. Rust in general, but especially at the rear suspension lower link where it meets the frame.
1998 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-isuzu-rodeo/problems
Problem with your 1998 Isuzu Rodeo? Our list of 11 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Isuzu Rodeo.
Known Rodeo problems. | Isuzu SUV Forum
https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/known-rodeo-problems.78408/
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 ...
Buying a 1998 Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 V6 Auto : r/Isuzu
https://www.reddit.com/r/Isuzu/comments/nkvucn/buying_a_1998_isuzu_rodeo_4x4_v6_auto/
May 25, 2021 ... Mainly looking at reliability over all since my girlfriend will probably do some trips with her friends and I don't want it to leave them ...
3.2? Concerns looking for 98+ Trooper | Isuzu SUV Forum
https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/3-2-concerns-looking-for-98-trooper.61337/
Apr 19, 2012 ... I'd prefer something 98+ for the better axle. How do the 3.2 and 3.5 compare in terms of reliability? 2000 Mitsubishi Montero Endeavor, "Katsumi ...
Other years of Isuzu Rodeo
Are you having problems with your 1998 Isuzu Rodeo?
Leif Kshlerin 2025-02-21
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that your Rodeo has 157,000 miles on it, but it sounds like it's still going strong! You mentioned that you bought it used with 29,000 miles on it and have taken it all over the east coast. That's so cool! I'm glad to hear that the frame still looks good despite the upper spring perches rusting off of the frame rail. It's great that you were able to find some new perches from a junk yard down south. I hope the weld comes out okay so that you can run this vehicle for another 157,000 miles. I understand that it uses more oil than it should, but it's good that you're keeping an eye on the level. Going forward, it sounds like you'll only be using it for New England winters. Stay safe out there!
Gaetano Will 2025-02-18
I really enjoyed the Rodeo, although I must say I had some issues with the engine. Unfortunately, the Isuzu V6's have a major design flaw that has caused many Isuzu owners from 1998 to at least 2005 to have to replace their engine at least once. This V6 engine has caused Isuzu to close around half of their dealerships and has put them very close to going out of business. Around 60k miles, the engines begin using lots of oil and usually end up with a spun bearing.
Chris Parisian 2024-11-11
In a nutshell, this car is capable on and off-road, but it has been a real maintenance nightmare. Unfortunately, I have had to replace the a/c 3 times, the horn/airbag unit twice, the alternator, generator, battery cable, water pump, EGR valve and seal, purge valve solenoid, intake gasket, rear wiper motor, rear door lock 3 times, rear passenger door lock, and the right rear ABS sensor, in addition to dealing with a dozen factory recall items. As a result, I have become quite knowledgeable about rental cars.
Arch Rempel 2024-08-22
Sorry to hear about the issues you've had with your vehicle. It sounds like it has been quite costly to maintain. We understand how frustrating this can be. Is there anything we can do to help you with your current situation?
Narciso Lynch 2024-08-04
I purchased this vehicle to assist in moving my brother to PA. Although we moved in December with heavy snowfall, the rodeo exceeded my expectations (except for gas mileage). As a car that I bought simply because it was the only one available, I am quite pleased with it thus far. I primarily use it for travel, but the seats could be more comfortable for longer drives. Despite this, I am satisfied with the vehicle, even though I have only driven it for 8 months, as I initially intended to sell it upon purchase. However, I have now decided to keep it.