Isuzu Spacecab problems

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The Isuzu Faster is a pickup truck that was manufactured and marketed by Isuzu between 1972 and 2002 over three generations. The Faster was succeeded worldwide by Isuzu D-Max, except in Japan and North America.

First generation (1972–1980)

Isuzu of Japan introduced the KB20 / 25 series Faster pickup in 1972. The regular wheelbase models were designated "20", while "25" referred to the longer version. Derived from the Isuzu Florian, the Faster shared many components, including doors and the front-end assemblage. It served as a replacement for the Isuzu Wasp, a pickup version of the Bellett which preceded the Florian. Both single and twin headlamp front fascia designs were produced.

Due to the exterior dimensions, and engines offered were found to be in compliance with Japanese regulations, the platform was classed in the favorable "compact" designation, and competed with other Japanese made products sold in Japan at the time.

In most export markets, Isuzu rebranded the Faster as the "Isuzu KB". However, the Faster was often distributed through General Motors (GM) retail channels and sold under the Chevrolet brand as the "Chevrolet LUV"—LUV being an acronym for light utility vehicle. Bedford, the European commercial vehicle subsidiary of GM also offered the vehicle under the "Bedford KB" name.

The Isuzu Faster used a traditional pickup truck chassis with a ladder frame and a leaf spring live axle rear suspension. At the front, the A-arm suspension used an independent configuration. The 2,600 mm (102.4 in) wheelbase was similar to its competitors, as was the 1,855 mm (73.0 in) cargo bay. Unlike for the preceding Wasp, there was also a long wheelbase version (KB25) which had 2,995 mm (117.9 in) between the axles, which made for a 2,290 mm (90.2 in) bed.

In 1978, a four-wheel drive version became available, with the KB40 chassis code but sold under the "Faster Rodeo" label in Japan. There was also a double cab (on the longer chassis) version. Sales ended in 1980 when the second generation was introduced. The engine used in most markets was a carbureted 1.6-liter (1,584 cc) gasoline SOHC inline-four of 94 PS (69 kW), which was complemented by a 2.0-liter (1,951 cc) diesel four (KBD) which produced 62 PS (46 kW). Top speeds were 145 km/h (90 mph) and 115 km/h (71 mph) for the gasoline and diesel versions respectively. In Japan, an overhead valve engine (G161) was fitted originally; this produces 84 PS (62 kW) for a 135 km/h (84 mph) top speed.

General Motors-Holden imported the Faster into Australia from November 1972 under the name "Chevrolet LUV", renaming it "Isuzu KB" in 1977 before it was replaced in December 1980 by the second generation model (badged "Holden Rodeo"). Holden launched the LUV in Australia with the 1.6-liter inline-four gasoline engine delivering approximately 50 kW (67 hp) of power and 110 N⋅m (81 lb⋅ft) of torque. Gaining an early reputation for reliability and durability, these original rear-wheel drive models featured a four-speed manual transmission, short-wheelbase construction, and circa 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) payload capacity.

An update in 1978 expanded the LUV range—now comprising the short-wheelbase KB20 model, the new long-wheelbase KB25 and the four-wheel drive KB40 short-wheelbase. These KB25 and KB40 variants were offered in both cab chassis and utility (pickup) body styles and could be specified with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine or the newly available 1.95-liter inline-four diesel. The diesel produced 45 kW (60 hp) and 113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft).

Responsibility of sales in North America was delegated to General Motors. Thus, the Isuzu was retailed via Chevrolet dealerships as the "Chevrolet LUV". The only engine was a 1.8-liter (1,817 cc) SOHC inline-four which produced 75 hp (56 kW).

Sales in the United States began in March 1972 as a response to the Datsun and Toyota pickup trucks, as well as Ford's Mazda-built Courier. To circumvent the 25 percent tariff on light trucks (known as the chicken tax), LUVs were imported in cab chassis configuration, which included the entire light truck, less the cargo box or truck bed and were only subject to a 4 percent tariff. Subsequently, a truck bed would be attached to the chassis and the vehicle could be sold as a light truck.

The LUV's exterior was updated slightly for the 1974 model year, but the first major update came in the 1976 model year, when a three-speed automatic transmission option and front disc brakes were added. Power was up to 80 hp (60 kW) for 1977, and sales continued to rise. An exterior refresh and the addition of a 2,285 mm (90 in) cargo bay option, with longer 2,995 mm (118 in) wheelbase, brought sales up to 71,145 in 1978. The addition of four-wheel drive for 1979 brought the LUV to the attention of Motor Trend magazine, and earned it their second "Truck of the Year" award. The LUV was the first four-wheel-drive minitruck available and set a new trend. Sales peaked at 100,192.

photo of Isuzu Spacecab car production

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Isuzu Spacecab model years

isuzu spacecab 1994 photo
Spacecab 1994
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isuzu spacecab 1991 photo
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Common Isuzu Spacecab problems

Based on the search results, there are no specific common problems listed for the Isuzu SpaceCab cars. However, the search results do provide some information about the Isuzu SpaceCab that could be relevant to potential issues.

The Isuzu SpaceCab is a compact pickup truck that was produced between 1988 and 2005. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, as well as custom options such as a tonneau cover, bed lining, and towing hitch. The SpaceCab was known for its durability and reliability, with many owners reporting high mileage and minimal mechanical issues.

However, like any vehicle, the Isuzu SpaceCab is not immune to mechanical problems. Some potential issues that could arise include:

  • Engine problems: The SpaceCab was available with several different engine options, including a 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.2-liter V6 engine. Potential engine problems could include issues with the fuel injection system, timing belt, or head gasket.
  • Transmission problems: The SpaceCab was available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Potential transmission problems could include issues with the clutch, transmission fluid, or gear synchronizers.
  • Suspension and steering problems: The SpaceCab's suspension and steering systems could potentially experience issues such as worn out bushings, ball joints, or tie rods.
  • Brake problems: The SpaceCab's braking system could potentially experience issues such as worn out brake pads, rotors, or brake lines.
  • Electrical problems: The SpaceCab's electrical system could potentially experience issues such as blown fuses, faulty wiring, or malfunctioning sensors.

It's worth noting that the search results do not provide any specific information about common problems with the Isuzu SpaceCab. However, the vehicle's age and the potential for mechanical issues means that it's important for owners to stay on top of regular maintenance and inspections to prevent potential problems before they become serious.

Isuzu Spacecab

Why was Isuzu discontinued?

On 30 January 2008, Isuzu announced its complete withdrawal from the US market, effective 31 January 2009. It would continue to provide support and parts. The decision was due to lack of sales. Some of the lack of sales was blamed on consumer experiences with low quality engines and service.

Is Isuzu pickup reliable?

The Isuzu D Max has proven to be a reliable and capable pickup truck. With its robust and rugged design, it is built to handle tough terrains and heavy loads. The D Max's powerful engine offers strong performance and excellent towing capacity.

How reliable is the Isuzu D-Max?

Isuzu doesn't appear on our annual Driver Power customer satisfaction surveys so it's tough to get feedback from owners - but the D-Max has an enviable reputation for total reliability. The brand offers a five-year/125,000-mile warranty on all models, which shows how confident the brand is about the D-Max.

How many miles per gallon does a Isuzu faster get?

This new engine gave the rear-wheel drive diesel LUV a fuel economy rating of 33 mpg‑US (7.1 L/100 km) city / 44 mpg‑US (5.3 L/100 km) highway.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Isuzu Spacecab years

We have researched Isuzu problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Isuzu Spacecab cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Isuzu Spacecab model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Isuzu Spacecab model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Isuzu Spacecab years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Isuzu Spacecab car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Isuzu Spacecab , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Seat belts problems

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

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Spacecab model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Isuzu Spacecab . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Isuzu Spacecab vehicles.

List of Isuzu Spacecab complaints

Isuzu Spacecab 1991
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-02-05
  • Date Complaint: 1998-02-20
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: JAACL16EBR7
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER INVOLVED IN CRASH WITH SEAT BELT ON. DRIVER STILL HIT WINDSHIELD RESULTING IN INJURY.
Isuzu Spacecab 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-02-05
  • Date Complaint: 1998-02-20
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: JAACL16EBR7
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: FASTENED SEAT BELT FAILED TO KEEP PASSENGER FROM HITTING WINDSHIELD DURING CRASH.

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