1996 Isuzu Trooper problems
The Isuzu Trooper is a full-size SUV that was produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu between September 1981 and September 2002. In the domestic Japanese market it was sold as the Isuzu Bighorn, the car was exported internationally mainly as a Trooper but it also received several other nameplates including Acura SLX, Chevrolet Trooper, Subaru Bighorn, SsangYong Korando Family, Honda Horizon, Opel Monterey, Vauxhall Monterey, Holden Jackaroo, and Holden Monterey.
In total, there were two generations of this vehicle: the first, produced between 1981 and 1991; and the second (UBS) produced between 1991 and 2002, with a substantial refresh in 1998.
The Trooper began as a rather basic and somewhat underpowered on- and off-road vehicle, offered only with four-cylinder motor, four-speed manual transmission, and part-time four-wheel drive. The first generation evolved to add both amenities and luxuries, including optional air-conditioning, power windows, and a more powerful V6 engine. The second generation was even more refined and available in two-wheel drive as well as four-wheel drive.
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Common 1996 Isuzu Trooper problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here is a list of common problems with the Isuzu Trooper 1996 based on complaints from owners:
- Engine Oil Light Illuminated: The engine oil warning light may be lit due to a leak in the differential, especially common around the 55,000-mile mark. Replacing the differential is necessary to resolve this issue.
- Excessive Fuel Use and Starting Problems: Increased fuel consumption and starting problems could indicate a failing fuel pump. Replacing the fuel pump is recommended, with online guides available for assistance.
- Rough Idling: Rough idling in the Trooper is often linked to a damaged intake manifold gasket. Replacing the gasket is a relatively straightforward fix.
- Ticking From Valve Train: A ticking sound from the engine valve train area may be caused by varnish build-up in the hydraulic lash adjusters. Using higher quality oil can help resolve this issue.
- Oil Leak: Oil leaks, commonly caused by a faulty front crankshaft oil seal, can be remedied with a revised design available from Breakeryard. Replacing the seal and retainer gasket can stop the oil leak.
- Rattling From Front of the Car: Troopers often experience timing chain tensioner issues, leading to a rattling sound from the front of the car. Replacing the tensioner is necessary to address this problem.
- Loss of Power and Check Engine Light: A loss of power accompanied by the check engine light may indicate a failing catalytic converter. Replacement of the catalytic converter is the recommended solution.
- 4WD Indicator Malfunction: If the 4WD indicator stays on even in 2WD mode, faulty vacuum hoses, solenoids, or engine valves may need replacement to resolve this issue.
- Differential Leaking: Oil weeping or leaking from between the two rear wheels where the axle meets the prop shaft is often caused by a leaking differential. Replacing the differential is necessary to stop the leak.
These common problems reported by Isuzu Trooper 1996 owners highlight various issues ranging from starting failures to engine performance issues, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs to ensure the vehicle's optimal functioning.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Isuzu Trooper get?
Based on data from 5 vehicles, 160 fuel-ups and 39,418 miles of driving, the 1996 Isuzu Trooper gets a combined Avg MPG of 14.79 with a 0.40 MPG margin of error.
Why did Isuzu stop making the Trooper?
SUV market changes and safety concerns doomed the Trooper
Unfortunately for Isuzu, mid-size classics like the Honda CRV and Toyota Rav-4 essentially cornered that market before they could find footing with their oddly conceived Vehicross and other compact models.
What transmission does the Isuzu Trooper have?
Transmission options included a five-speed manual transmission, the Aisin AR5 and the electronically controlled 4L30E four-speed automatic.
What car is the same as Isuzu Trooper?
The Isuzu Trooper Was Also a Subaru, an Acura and… the Holden Jackaroo.
1996 Isuzu Trooper car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Isuzu Trooper problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Isuzu Trooper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Isuzu Trooper
The NHTSA has received 60 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Isuzu Trooper. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Isuzu Trooper vehicles.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-30
- VIN: JACDJ58V2T7
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: IT IS A STRONG VEHICLE GOOD PERFORMANCE BUT THE FRAME DOES NOT SUPPORT ENOUGH PROBLEMS WITH THE STABILITY OF THE VEHICLE ON THE ROADS OR IN EMERGENCY MANEUVERS ALONG THE WAY. DUE TO CORROSION AND RUPTURE IN THE CHASSIS SPECIFICALLY IN THE CONNECTIONS WITH THE FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION CONTROL ARMS. (POOR QUALITY STEEL) ANOTHER POINT IS A SMELL OF FUEL AND SPILLAGE, BY THE FUEL TANK. (FIRE RISK) ALL THESE CONDITIONS RESULT IN RISK MANAGEMENT, LOOSE VEHICLE CONTROL AND ROLLOVER POSSIBILITY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-31
- VIN: JACDJ58V7T7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME IS RUSTED OUT AND FALLING OFF IN CHUNKS. I DIDN'T GET AN INSPECTION DONE IN JAN 2013 BECAUSE I WAS TOLD THE YEAR BEFORE THAT THE RUST IS GETTING BAD. OTHER THAN THE FRAME, THE VEHICLE IS IN OUTSTANDING CONDITION. IT ISN'T A SAFE VEHICLE. DO I HAVE ANY RECOURSE? *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-14
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE ACCELERATOR STICKS. THE LAST TIME THIS HAPPENED, THE ACCELERATOR STUCK ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND WOULD NOT RELEASE. MY ONLY OPTION WAS TO CUT THE IGNITION. I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 92-95 MODELS, HOWEVER, MINE IS A 96 MODEL. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-15
- VIN: JACDJ58V8T7
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE DELAMINATION. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V4T7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING HAVING PROBLEM WITH FUEL RAILS. DEALER INSTALL THE WRONG HOSE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. TS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JACDJ58V717
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AROUND 25 MPH , CONSUMERS VEHICLE BROADSIDED ANOTHER VEHICLE, AND BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. CONSUMER HAS YET TO CONTACT DEALER. *AK CONSUMER STTED THE VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS.*SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-03
- VIN: JACDJ58VXT7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE HAD AN ONGOING PROBLEM W/ANTIFREEZE SMELL, I HAVE TAKEN IT IN TO SHOP SEVERAL TIMES THE LAST HAVING A HOSE TO THE TRANSMISSION REPLACED WHICH SEEMED TO TEMPORARILY REMOVE PROBLEM FOR ABOUT A YEAR BUT THE SMELL IS COMING BACK. IT TOOK THREE VISITS TO FIND IT THE FIRST TIME.. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V0T7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2 LEAKING O-RINGS IN THE WATER OUTLET NECK OF THE CORE CAUSED THE ODOR OF ANTIFREEZE TO ENTER THE CAB OF THE VEHICLE AND CAUSED THE DRIVER TO FEEL SICK, RADIATOR LEAKING FROM THE SEAM AT THE TANK NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-16
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER CORE O-RINGS WERE LEAKING AND CAUSING AN ANTIFREEZE ODOR INSIDE THE CAB OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE HEATER WAS ON, THE VEHICLE WAS INITIALLY TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THE PROBLEM WAS TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSED, AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED AND THE ODOR DID NOT RETURN, THE CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE DEALER. NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TWO TRANSMISSION LINES WERE LEAKING FLUID WHEN AT IDLE. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE HEAD GASKETS LEAK. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-06
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE BLEWOUT WHILE PARKED IN A PARKING LOT CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE TURN SIGNAL AND FENDER, SEVERAL DAYS LATER THE LEFT FRONT TIRE BLEWOUT WHILE STILL AT THE DEALER BEING REPAIRED CAUSING ADDITIONAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE, THE CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT (GENERAL GRABBER ST TIRES P245-70R16). NLM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JACDJ58V6T7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ON SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2001 AT ABOUT 9 AM I PULLED INTO THE MOBIL GAS STATION IN CASCADES SHOPPING CENTER, STERLING, VA TO REFUEL. MY TANK WAS ON "E". I TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, POPPED THE GAS CAP DOOR OPEN FROM INSIDE THE VEHICLE, EXITED THE CAR AND WALKED AROUND THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE TO REFUEL. I BEGAN TO TURN THE GAS CAP WITH MY RIGHT HAND. AS I DID SO, I HEARD A "HISSING" SOUND AND THEN FLAMES IMMEDIATELY SHOT OUT OF THE TANK. THE BRIGHT ORANGE FLAMES BURNED STEADILY APROXIMATELY 18 INCHES FROM THE VEHICLE FUEL NECK. PEOPLE AT THE STATION BEGAN TO RUN AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE. I IMMEDIATELY REMOVED MY 18 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER FROM THE VEHICLE AND RAN AWAY WITH HER IN MY ARMS. A BYSTANDER PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH A NEARBY EXTINGUISHER. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED ON THE SCENE AFTER THE FIRE WAS OUT. THEY PRONOUNCED THE FIRE OUT AND MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE ISUZU DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION. I HAVE SEVERAL WITNESSES WHO SAID THEY HAVE NOT SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. THIS COULD BE A POSSIBLE STATIC FIRE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-06
- VIN: JACDJ58VOT7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AT 40,000 MILES COOLANT FUMES COMMENCED TO COME INTO VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE BEEN IN / OUT OF DEALER'S SHOP ON SEVEN OCCASIONS, AND MADE VARIOUS REPAIRS, BUT PROBLEM STILL REOCCURRING. *AK CONSUMER FIRST COMPLAINED OF AN ANTI-FREEZE SMELL IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND CAB, AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT A HEAD GASKET HAD BLOWN, HOWEVER DEALER STATED NOTHING WAS WRONG, CONSUMER WENT TO ANOTHER DEALER WHO REPLACED HEAD GASKET, AFTER REPAIR CONSUMER COULD STILL SMELL ANTIFREEZE, IN OCTOBER DEALER FOUND A HOLE IN THE HEATER HOSE AND REPLACED IT, SMELL WAS STILL PRESENT SO CONSUMER HAD ENGINE STEAM CLEANED WHICH STILL DID NOT GET RID OF ODOR, THE ODORS WERE CAUSING CONSUMER'S FACE TO GET NUMB AND CAUSED HIM TO GET SLEEPY, FINALLY 2 ORINGS WERE FOUND LEAKING IN THE PLASTIC NECK OF THE CORE. TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK WHEN AT IDLE, DEALER REPLACED 2 HOSE CLAMPS FOR COOLANT LINES. CRUISE CONTROL CUTS OUT AND ENGINE RACES WHEN GOING UPHILL. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V5T7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION BLEWOUT REQUIRING TOTAL REPLACEMENT. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-08
- VIN: JACDJ58V3T7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME.*AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED ONLY BY SLAMMING AT THE BRAKE PEDAL FORCEFULLY WHICH CAUSED THE BRAKES TO SMOKE. *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
- VIN: JACDJ58V9T7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS SYSTEM CANNOT BE MADE OPERABLE BY SERVICE DEPARTMENT. ISUZU CORP. CAN'T DETERMINE PROBLEM OR SOLUTION.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SIDEWALL FAILURE IN BOTH INCIDENTS( DOT NUMBER: ELMTCLL156 TIRE SIZE: P245/70R16 )
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SIDEWALL FAILURE IN BOTH INCIDENTS (DOT NUMBER: ELMTCLL156 TIRESIZE: P245/70R16)
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SIDEWALL FAILURE IN BOTH ACCIDENTS. *JB ***DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS****734337
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SIDEWALL FAILURE IN BOTH INCIDENTS. *AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V6T7
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THE LUG: NUTS ARE BEING TORQUE TOO TIGHT, CAUSING THE LUG: NUTS TO FREEZE ONTO THE LUG, WHICH BREAKS IF CHANGING THE TIRE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V2T7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACED 2 TIMES
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: JACDJ58VXT7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN COMING TO A FULL STOP OR WHEN STARTING ACCELERATING FROM A FULL STOP, THE TRUCK WILL MAKE A NOISE LIKE SOMETHING BUMPED IT FROM THE REAR. I WAS TOLD IT WAS PROBLEM ON THE TRANSMISSION, BUT THE DEALER REFUSED TO TAKE A LOOK AT IT WHEN REPORTED FOR THE SECOND TIME. THE FIRST TIME THEY SAID THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-27
- VIN: JACDJ58V9T7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY '96 ISUZU TROOPER HAS BEEN A LEMON FROM DAY ONE. I HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS THREE TIMES WITH MY ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKETS. THEY LEAK OIL ONTO MY EXHAUST MANIFOLD, CAUSING, A NAUSEOUS ODOR. AROUND CHRISTMAS OF 98, I HAD TO USE EVASIVE STEERING MANEUVERS TO AVOID ROCKS IN THE ROAD. WHILE STEERING QUICKLY TO THE LEFT THEN BACK TO THE RIGHT, TROOPER FELT AS IF IT MIGHT ROLLOVER INTO THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT I WOULD HAVE EXPECTED FROM A SO-CALLED WELL ENGINEERED VEHICLE. I HAVE ALSO A LONG LIST OF DOCUMENTED PROBLEMS THAT I SHOULD SHARE, BUT DO NOT HAVE THE ROOM. *AK
1996 Isuzu Trooper recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Isuzu Trooper.
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE LINES WERE INSTALLED IMPROPERLY AT THE ASSEMBLY LINE RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE LINE AND AN UPPER CONTROL ARM OF THE SUSPENSION.
- Consequence: THE LINE CAN BE DAMAGED DURING VEHICLE OPERATION AND CAN RESULT IN BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE, REDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS, AND INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE LINE AND THE UPPER CONTROL ARM. IF THE CLEARANCE IS NOT ACCORDING TO SPECIFICATIONS, THE BRAKE LINE WILL BE REPLACED.
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH AN INCORRECT REAR CENTER SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY BUCKLE. THE MISBUILD INVOLVED FITTING A BUCKLE FOR ANOTHER MARKET WITH THE CORRECT U.S. SPECIFICATION SEAT BELT.
- Consequence: SUCH INSTALLATION RESULTS IN A REAR CENTER SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE BELT TONGUE CANNOT BE INSERTED INTO THE BUCKLE AND A CONSQUENT INABILITY OF THE SYSTEM TO PROVIDE PROPER OCCUPANT RESTRAINT DURING PANIC BRAKING OF THE VEHICLE OR AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT TONGUE AND BUCKLE AND INCORRECT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1996 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
Positive 1996 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your Trooper! It's great to know that it still passes vehicle emissions with flying colors even after 10 years of use. Regular oil changes are so important for keeping a car running smoothly, and it sounds like you've done a great job taking care of it. While it may be a bit noisy on the highway, the 12-disc CD changer is a great feature to have. It's wonderful that you've been able to use it for family camping trips, hunting, and fishing - it sounds like it's been a reliable companion for many adventures. And how exciting that it may become your daughter's first car in a few years! It's always nice to see a vehicle passed down through the family. This is actually the second Trooper you've owned, which is a testament to how much you must love them. Thanks for sharing your experience with me!
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I bought it used @ 33K and it now has 86K. My father had one previously and I bought mine for its versatility. It's extremely reliable and has never left me stranded. Although the base model seats only have 4 adjustments and are pretty uncomfortable and flat, it can still suck up lots of gear and fit easily in the garage. If this one ever dies, I will definitely upgrade to the 3.5l.
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Just reached 96,000 miles and still in great shape! I'm so happy with how few repairs I've needed (just gaskets, starter, and fuel pump) in the past 8 years. It's been the perfect size for my family of 4, including my 'adult' kids and all of our stuff. Plus, it's always been great for hauling large items. We're actually buying a new 2002 Trooper now because we love this car so much. Unfortunately, Isuzu won't be making Troopers for a year or two due to manufacturing moving from Japan. We wanted to grab this deal before they're all gone. :)
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Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 95 Trooper. I bought it brand new with the base model, 5spd, and air conditioning as the only option. I'm happy to report that after 90000 miles, I haven't had any major problems. Just regular maintenance like oil changes, new tires, a new battery, spark plugs, and a timing belt. Thanks for listening!
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You've got yourself a fantastic new vehicle! While it may not have the best gas mileage, it's a reliable 4x4 SUV that you can count on.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Isuzu Trooper problems:
1996 Isuzu Trooper Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Isuzu Trooper? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Isuzu Trooper.
Why are Isuzu Troopers so cheap? : r/cars
Apr 29, 2017 ... Isuzu is not known for reliability. The research on this site gives the trooper a reliability score of 5/100. Honda CR-V is 86/100, to ...
Q&A: 1996 Isuzu Trooper Problems & Check Trans Light | JustAnswer
Jan 13, 2013 ... Hello. My name is XXXXX XXXXX I'll be assisting you with your question. The most common cause for this on this vehicle is a faulty Idle ...
1996 Isuzu Trooper Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1996 Isuzu Trooper? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
POWER WINDOW PROBLEMS 96 Rodeo | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 30, 2018 ... Having strong desire to figure out and fix this common problem I have gone where no Rodeo owner has ever likely gone before. I have some general ...
Other years of Isuzu Trooper
Are you having problems with your 1996 Isuzu Trooper?
Jay Miller 2024-10-21
We bought this vehicle brand new back in 1995 and have driven it for 66,000 miles. It has been pretty much trouble-free and works just as advertised. It may not be flashy, but it gets the job done. Off-road, it performs very well, but it can be a bit high and stiff on paved roads. Unfortunately, it has terrible gas mileage (13-19) even with a 5-speed. However, I absolutely love the low range, which allows you to crawl along in marginal conditions. Maintenance is easy - just change the oil and lubricants, and replace the spark plugs at 30k miles for a tune-up. The engine is decent, but it doesn't have a lot of torque and feels more like a car engine.
Nelson Feeney 2024-06-21
Overall, this has been a great SUV to own. I've had it for over 3 years and have been very happy with the quality and comfort of the vehicle. The only drawback is the expensive repair and maintenance costs.