2002 Isuzu Rodeo problems

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2002 Isuzu Rodeo

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Common 2002 Isuzu Rodeo problems

The Isuzu Rodeo, produced between 1990 and 2004, is a midsize SUV known for its stylish exterior and great powertrain warranty. However, some models, particularly the 2002 Isuzu Rodeo, have their share of problems. Here are the most commonly reported issues:

  • Engine Failure: Engine failure is the most common problem reported on CarComplaints, affecting nearly every Isuzu Rodeo model year. The 2002 model in particular has received the most complaints from users. The Rodeo's 3.2-liter V6 engine is known to consume large amounts of motor oil. A lack of oil lubrication can lead to permanent engine damage. One CarComplaints user has reported hearing knocking sounds while the engine was running. When their SUV was brought in for repairs, the mechanic discovered a hole in the engine caused by an unlubricated piston. A lack of motor oil can also lead to overheating. The engine may shut down from the intense heat, disabling important safety features such as air bags, power steering, and power braking. Despite the high frequency of this issue, Isuzu hasn't issued any recalls for engine failure in the Rodeo. That means you'll have to shoulder the cost of potential repairs. Make sure to ask your seller about the vehicle's engine's history to avoid costly repairs down the line.
  • Transmission Issues: Some owners of the 2002 Isuzu Rodeo have reported transmission problems. The "Trans" Light is on and blinking in the dash. The car does drive if you shift it manually (L - 2 - 3). There is a clunk or jerk when going from one gear to another. This issue could be due to a bad ECU or a problem with the transmission itself. It is recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
  • Fuel Pump Sending Unit: The fuel pump sending unit is a common issue in the Isuzu Rodeo. This problem can cause the vehicle to stall or have difficulty starting. The fuel pump sending unit is responsible for measuring the amount of fuel in the tank and sending this information to the vehicle's computer. If the fuel pump sending unit fails, the vehicle may not receive enough fuel, causing it to stall or have difficulty starting. This problem can be fixed by replacing the fuel pump sending unit.
  • Oil in Spark Plug Tubes May Cause Misfire: Some Isuzu Rodeo owners have reported misfiring issues caused by oil in the spark plug tubes. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn piston rings, a leaking valve cover gasket, or a faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system. If left unaddressed, this problem can cause significant engine damage. It is recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
  • ABS Light On Due to Damaged Wiring: Some Isuzu Rodeo owners have reported that the ABS light is on due to damaged wiring. This problem can be caused by wear and tear, corrosion, or damage to the wiring. It is recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
  • Valve Train Noise Due to Worn Valve Guides: Some Isuzu Rodeo owners have reported valve train noise due to worn valve guides. This problem can be caused by wear and tear or lack of maintenance. It is recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.

In conclusion, while the Isuzu Rodeo is a generally well-received sports utility vehicle, some models, particularly the 2002 model, have their share of problems. Engine failure, transmission issues, fuel pump sending unit failure, oil in spark plug tubes, ABS light on due to damaged wiring, and valve train noise due to worn valve guides are some of the most commonly reported issues. It is recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix any problems before purchasing or driving the vehicle.

2002 Isuzu Rodeo engine

How many miles will a 2002 Isuzu Rodeo last?

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.

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.

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.

2002 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
  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Isuzu Rodeo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2002 Isuzu Rodeo

The NHTSA has received 99 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Isuzu Rodeo. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Isuzu Rodeo vehicles.

2022-10-05

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-02-05
  • VIN: 4S2DM58WX24
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The contact's son owns a 2002 Isuzu Rodeo. The contact stated while driving downhill at 40 MPH around a curve with a child sitting in the rear seat, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. Additionally, the contact stated that upon turning the steering wheel, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact continued driving until the vehicle responded. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while her son was driving the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the subframe was severely fractured. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V436000 (Suspension) had previously been completed on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 105,370.
2021-11-27

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-10
  • VIN: 4S2CM57W624
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Frame rust condition which makes the SUV un repairable
2017-07-20

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-19
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE SPARE TIRE DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED OUT. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 88,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2017-07-19

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-01
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W324
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE HAD BEEN EXTENSIVE RUST AND CORROSION NEAR THE AXLES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED BY AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM AN UNKNOWN RECALL CAMPAIGN BECAUSE NEBRASKA WAS NOT CONSIDERED A SALT BELT STATE. THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED NO SOLUTION. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN DUE TO THE FAILURE OF COMPONENTS POTENTIALLY FRACTURING. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 10/18/17*LJ *TR
2017-01-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-12-01
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W724
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA AIR BAG, MY 2002 RODEO AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON, ON THE DASHBOARD, I CALLED THE DEALER AND THEY SAID ITS NOT PART OF THE RECALLS, IT IS A VEHICLE MADE BY HONDA AND SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE RECALLS, ITS THE SAME VEHICLE AS THE HONDA PASSPORT JUST A DIFFERENT YR AND ITS A FLORIDA REGISTERED AUTOMOBILE, HOW CAN I GET HELP WITH THIS AIRBAG PROBLEM, I SHOULDNT HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS DUE TO DEFECTS AND RECALLS.
2017-01-09

SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-05
  • VIN: 4S20H58W924
  • Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I HAVE 110,000 MILES ON VEHICLE AND WAS JUST TOLD FRAME IS RUSTING OUT. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE THIS CAR HAS MANY MILES LEFT ON ENGINE, NOT HAPPY ABOUT RUSTED FRAME I HAVE HEARD ABOUT , ALSO ABS LIGHT GOES OFF AND ON.
2016-07-09

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-08
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W924
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I PULLED INTO A HANDICAP PARKING SPOT IN FRONT OF A SUPERMARKET, PUT IT IN PARK, SET THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. GOT OUT OUT VEHICLE, LOCKED THE DOORS. STARTED TO WALK AWAY AND A GUY THAT WAS SITTING AT A TABLE IN FRONT OF STORE YELLED THERE GOES YOUR CAR. I RAN BESIDE THE CAR TO TRY TO OPEN THE DOOR TO NO AVAIL. THE CAR CRASHED BACKWARDS INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE POLICE WERE CALLED AND WAS TOLD BY THEM TO CALL INSURANCE COMPANY AND TO LEAVE IF BOTH VEHICLES WERE OKAY TO DRIVE. I FEEL THE PARK GEAR FAILED AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILED. THIS HAS HAPPENED BEFORE JUST IN PARK A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO.
2016-04-07

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-10-13
  • VIN: 4S2CK58W724
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, A FUEL ODOR WAS NOTICED AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2016-02-22

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-02-20
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W324
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: "TAKATA RECALL " MY STABILIZER BAR UNDER MY CAR BROKE OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE THRUWAY I ALMOST CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND I RAN OFF THE ROAD.
2015-12-17

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-12-16
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W224
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING CALL AND STEERING SUDDENLY SEEMED "FUNNY". PULLED OVER, HAD CAR TOWED AND WAS TOLD THE MOUNTING BRACKET FOR THE REAR DRIVER SIDE SWAY BAR RUSTED FROM THE MAINFRAME OF THE CAR AND THE CAR CANNOT BE DRIVEN. RESEARCHED ON WEB AND ISUZU HAD A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE. CALLED HONDA AND THEY SUGGESTED WE TOW THE CAR OVER 110 MILES TO THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP. IF AT THAT TIME THEY INSPECTED IT AND DETERMINE ISUZU IS AT FAULT THE MAY OR MAY NOT OFFER ANY COMPENSATION. I FEEL IT IS UNREASONABLE TO REQUIRE ME TO TOW THE CAR 110 MILES. I EXAMINED RECEIPTS FROM THE PREVIOUS OWNER AND ISUZU ISSUED A RECALL ON THIS CAR. THE CAR WAS INSPECTED ON 11/10/11 AND THIS WAS TYPED ON THE RECEIPT: CAU INSPECT FOUND STAGE 1. TREAT PER RECALL. COMPLETE OPERATES AS DESIGN. LABELED A STAGE 1 FIX. OBVIOUSLY, THEY DID NOT FIX THE ISSUE. SINCE ISUZU HAS RECALLED THIS CAR DO I HAVE ANY OPTIONS? IS THERE A CLASS LAWSUIT AGAINST ISUZU?
2015-08-24

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-06-30
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W324
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR REPAIRS, THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THAT THE SUB FRAME HAD CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2014-09-22

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-31
  • VIN: 4S2CM57WX24
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: ONLY A FEW WEEKS AFTER VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED WHILE DRIVING THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE LITERALLY CRACKED AND SEPARATED. THE REAR PASSENGER FRAME PIECE WAS HANGING DOWN AND FORWARD! WE WERE SO GRATEFUL THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN JUST A FEW MILES BEFORE WHEN WE WERE ON THE FREEWAY TRAVELING AT 70MPH. WE COULD HAVE DIED! *TR
2014-07-11

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-01
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W324
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY TRACTION BAR FELL OFF CAUSING ME TO CRASH INTO THE CURB. THE WHOLE FRAME IS ROTTING OUT I HAD NO IDEA OF THE RECALL UNTIL I LOOKED INTO IT NOW. HOW CAN I GET MY TRUCK FIXED? *TR
2014-02-07

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-09-11
  • VIN: 4S2CM57W824
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AREA WHERE THE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS WERE ATTACHED TO THE FRAME WAS CORRODED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V436000 (SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,899 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
2013-11-24

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S2CK58W624
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON A ROAD, A HORSE RAN ACROSS AND CAUSED A COLLISION. THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE IS DAMAGED, AS WELL AS, BOTH SIDE WINDOWS AND THE RADIATOR. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED CAUSING INJURIES TO TWO PEOPLE IN THE VEHICLE. THE OFFICER AT THE SCENE SAID THE AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE DEFINITELY DEPLOYED. *TR
2013-06-17

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-06
  • VIN: 1C3EL46X44N
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE STALLS IN SLOW TURNS, REDUCED POWER LIGHT COMES ON ONCE EVERY THREE WEEKS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSTATE. *TR
2013-04-23

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-04-19
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W924
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUB-FRAME WAS SEVERELY CORRODED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 148,381.
2013-02-27

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-02-27
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W924
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TODAY WHILE DRIVING TO WORK ON THE HIGHWAY. MY ISUZU RODEO STARTED TO SWAY ON THE HIGHWAY. AND WHEN I LET OFF THE GAS THE REAR END BEGAN CLUNKING AS IT SLOWED. IT FEELS LIKE IM TOWING DEAD WEIGHT. I STOPPED AT A GAS STATION AND IT WAS SMOKING UNDER THE REAR END. ITS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THERE IS SOMETHING MAJOR WRONG WITH THE REAR END OF THE CAR. I BRING MY CAR IN EVERY 2 1/2 MONTHS SINCE I TRAVEL ALOT, TO GET CHECKED UP AND THE OIL CHANGED. I HAVE NOT HAD AND ISSUE AND IF I DID I WOULD FIX THEM. AFTER READING THE STORIES ONLINE ABOUT THE REAR END RECALL I FEEL I HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. AT THE MOMENT I HAVE NO CAR AND IM STUCK AT WORK. AND NEED INFO HOW TO GET MY CAR RECALLED FOR THIS ISSUE. SINCE ITS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR
2012-12-28

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-10-19
  • VIN: 4S2DM58WX24
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V436000 (SUSPENSION: REAR). THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE REPAIRS, THE FRAME AND BRACKETS WERE FOUND TO BE CORRODED. THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE REAR FRAME WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND EXHIBITED HOLES, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO FAIL THE STATE INSPECTION. THE MANUFACTURER DENIED ASSISTANCE WITH THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,146 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 111, 6000.
2012-08-15

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-08-15
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W924
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE FRAME OF MY 2002 ISUZU RODEO HAS SIGNIFICANT FRAME RUST, CAUSING IT UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR
2012-01-13

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-05-18
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S2CK58W424
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ERRONEOUSLY DRIFT TO ONE SIDE. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE MOVED INTO THE SHOULDER, CRASHING INTO THE BARRIER WALL ABRUPTLY. THE CONTACT WAS KNOCKED UNCONSCIOUS AND THE CONTACT'S FOOT LANDED ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AS HE LOST CONSCIOUSNESS.THE CONTACT WAS NOT AWARE AS THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE THEN CRASHED INTO A TREE BEFORE FLIPPING. THE SEAT BELTS DETACHED FROM ITS HOUSING UNIT AND THE AIR BAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE HEAD, FACE, PELVIS AND SPINE. A PASSENGER WAS ALSO INJURED AND BOTH THE CONTACT AND THE PASSENGER WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT AND THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2012-01-03

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-12-19
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W424
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER RECEIVING NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V436000 (SUSPENSION:REAR) THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE REPAIRS, THE SUSPENSION WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THEY ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE FAILURE LIGHT COULD HAVE BEEN INDICATING THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE WITH THE SHOCK ABSORBERS OR ONE OF THE SENSORS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 152,000.
2011-09-29

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-09-29
  • VIN: 4S2CK57W724
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR SUSPENSION MOUNTING BRACKET FRACTURED AND THE WHEEL WAS DETACHING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. A PRIVATE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT HE WAS UNABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE SINCE THE BRACKET WAS A PART OF THE FRAME. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL NUMBER: 10V436000 ( SUSPENSION:REAR), NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
2011-08-29

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-22
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W414
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED REGARDING NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 10V436000 (SUSPENSION:REAR). HE TOOK HIS VEHICLE THROUGH STATE INSPECTION AND WAS ADVISED HIM THAT THERE WERE HOLES IN HIS FRAME AND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THEY PREVIOUSLY PERFORMED THE RECALL REPAIR. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,000.
2011-08-18

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-17
  • VIN: 4S2DM58W224
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ISUZU RODEO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE RUST WAS ON THE TRAILING ARM OF THE REAR SUSPENSION. TEHRE WERE NO REPAIRS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 73,000.

2002 Isuzu Rodeo recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 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.
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 2002 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews

  1. Orval Haley 2024-06-13

    I had to take my car to the shop twice for 10 days each within the first 10500 miles. Unfortunately, Isuzu did not honor their warranty, which was quite disappointing.

  2. Erling Langosh 2024-05-29

    This is my second Rodeo. My lease ended on my 98 LS, and I went shopping. I found that everything I liked as much or more than the Rodeo cost 10K more, comparably equipped to the LSE. Despite my 98 LS having several recalls and bugs, I found that they seem to be addressed in the 02 model. Therefore, I decided to purchase the 02 LSE for less cost than my 98 LS.

  3. Jaron Quitzon 2024-04-07

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2002 Rodeo. I was really excited to get it, especially since I had previously owned a 1999 Rodeo. While the first one had a defect in the paint, it ran great. Unfortunately, my 2002 Rodeo had some issues with an oil leak that the dealership had trouble finding. Eventually, a new engine had to be put in, but thankfully my warranty covered everything. Although it was inconvenient to keep bringing it back, I'm glad everything was taken care of. As for the body, it has a few dings and defects in the paint, but I've grown used to them. The interior is made of plastic, but it gets the job done. Have a great day!

  4. Okey Jacobi 2024-01-29

    I've been driving my Rodeo 2000 LS 4x4 V6 3.2L manual for three years now, covering 76,000 miles (mostly long rides on highways). I've had to replace some bearings in the lower part of the engine and the alternator, but nothing else. If you own this SUV, I highly recommend changing the 4 original shocks for the Edelbrock hi-performer shocks and checking the engine oil level frequently. Overall, it's been a reliable SUV for the price. It's cute on the outside, roomy, and good value. However, the interior could be improved, especially the dashboard material and front seat comfort.

  5. Jerod Rippin 2024-01-23

    I really appreciate the sleek appearance of this car after it's been cleaned, and the 6-Disc In dash CD is a great feature. However, I did encounter some issues with the suspension and a persistent problem with the slip yoke. Isuzu acknowledges that it's an engineering flaw, but unfortunately, they haven't done much to address it. Additionally, the gas mileage is quite poor, only averaging around 12-16 mph on the highway for a small V6. This has made me consider a Honda Civic or a hybrid for my next car. Thank you for considering my feedback.

Positive 2002 Isuzu Rodeo car reviews

  1. Davon Paucek 2024-11-26

    I couldn't find a better deal than this and it has been a great choice so far! I have the '02 Rodeo LS 4WD and it looks and rides excellent! I have the factory stereo and think it is just fine, despite others poor reviews of it. The sliding sunroof and side tubes were a nice addition too. Highly recommend this one!!

  2. Jevon Reichel 2024-10-04

    I think the build quality is great! I haven't had any problems with it yet. It's also very capable off-road. The interior has been solid and nothing feels cheaply made. I'm not sure what the editors tested, but I've had a great experience with it so far.

  3. Curt Kris 2024-10-02

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to let you know that I really love the SUV.

  4. Felton Howell 2024-09-29

    I chose the S model because it fit my budget, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it came with all the features of the LS model, including a 3.2 V6 DOHC engine, roof rack, CD player, power windows and locks, ABS, Intelligent Suspension Control, high-performance stereo, and a great sound system. The asking price was 25k, but I managed to get it for 23k. I absolutely love it and would definitely consider buying another one. I checked out all the other models in this class, but I'm really glad I made this choice!

  5. Raul Schowalter 2024-09-27

    Like most people, I checked my options before deciding on the Rodeo. Although I haven't had it for long, I already love it. It's the perfect size for me, although my husband feels a bit cramped when he rides or drives it. My only concern is that when I park on a hill and release my foot from the brake, it doesn't sound quite right. I'm not sure what it is, but it makes a groaning noise and rolls back a little. Since I've never owned an SUV before, maybe that's normal. Overall, I've thoroughly enjoyed my sporty mid-size and would definitely recommend it to others. It's a great price compared to others, and the warranty is fantastic!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2002 Isuzu Rodeo problems:

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
2002 Isuzu Rodeo Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-isuzu-rodeo/problems

Problem with your 2002 Isuzu Rodeo? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Isuzu Rodeo.

98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? | Isuzu SUV Forum
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. · 2.

Isuzu Rodeo Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage with ...
Isuzu Rodeo Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage with ...
https://www.carparts.com/blog/isuzu-rodeo-reliability-and-common-problems/

Sep 15, 2023 ... Engine failure is the most common problem reported on CarComplaints, affecting nearly every Isuzu Rodeo model year. The 2002 model in particular ...

The real truth on the 2nd Gen's | Isuzu SUV Forum
The real truth on the 2nd Gen's | Isuzu SUV Forum
https://www.planetisuzoo.com/threads/the-real-truth-on-the-2nd-gens.64871/

Oct 11, 2012 ... Known problem i have read about that problem a lot. Vehicle 2002 Isuzu Trooper LS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) Review Problem was with Isuzu ...

Isuzu Rodeo. Worth picking up? : r/Isuzu
Isuzu Rodeo. Worth picking up? : r/Isuzu
https://www.reddit.com/r/Isuzu/comments/pup2jt/isuzu_rodeo_worth_picking_up/

Sep 24, 2021 ... I'd say reliability is relative. My 2001 Rodeo LS 4wd has been alright. I had the 4l30E rebuilt in 2012 (~100,000 miles), and have only had to ...

Other years of Isuzu Rodeo

isuzu rodeo 2003 photo
Rodeo 2003
Isuzu

16

3

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 2004 photo
Rodeo 2004
Isuzu

39

2

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 2008 photo
Rodeo 2008
Isuzu

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 1991 photo
Rodeo 1991
Isuzu

58

2

4

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 1992 photo
Rodeo 1992
Isuzu

100

1

9

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
isuzu rodeo 1993 photo
Rodeo 1993
Isuzu

39

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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