1997 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 1997 Isuzu Trooper problems
The Isuzu Trooper is a popular off-road vehicle that has been known for its luxurious features and off-road capabilities. However, like any other vehicle, the Isuzu Trooper has its own set of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common problems with the Isuzu Trooper is with the electrical system. Many owners of the Trooper Limited and Trooper LS models have reported experiencing problems with the power windows, locks, and other electrical components. These issues can be caused by a faulty electrical system or by wear and tear on the electrical components. Regular inspections and maintenance of the electrical system can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Another common problem with the Isuzu Trooper is with the transmission. Many owners of the Trooper Limited and Trooper LS models have reported experiencing problems with the transmission slipping or shifting roughly. These issues can be caused by a worn out transmission, faulty transmission fluid, or a faulty transmission control module. Regular transmission inspections and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Fuel system issues are also common with the Isuzu Trooper. Many owners of the Trooper Limited have reported experiencing problems with the fuel gauge, which can read inaccurately. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump, which can cause the vehicle to stall or fail to start. Regular fuel system inspections and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Suspension issues are also a common problem with the Isuzu Trooper. Many owners have reported experiencing problems with the suspension, including creaking noises when turning the steering wheel and the wheels brushing against something when going down hills at fast speeds. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn out suspension components or issues with the suspension system's alignment. Regular inspections and maintenance of the suspension system can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Braking system issues are another common problem with the Isuzu Trooper. Many owners have reported experiencing problems with the brakes, including brake noise, brake fade, and brake pedal pulsation. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or issues with the brake system's hydraulic components. Regular inspections and maintenance of the braking system can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Air conditioning system issues are also a common problem with the Isuzu Trooper. Many owners have reported experiencing problems with the A/C not working properly, or not working at all. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty compressor, a leak in the A/C system, or issues with the A/C system's electrical components. Regular inspections and maintenance of the A/C system can help prevent these issues from occurring.
In summary, the Isuzu Trooper is a popular off-road vehicle that has been known for its luxurious features and off-road capabilities. However, like any other vehicle, the Isuzu Trooper has its own set of common problems that owners have reported over the years. These problems include electrical issues, transmission issues, fuel system issues, suspension issues, braking system issues, and air conditioning system issues. Regular inspections and maintenance of the vehicle's various systems can help prevent these issues from occurring and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What is the fuel consumption of a 1997 Isuzu Trooper?
1997 Isuzu Trooper
| Vehicle | EPA Fuel Economy | Greenhouse Gas Emissions (tailpipe) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 MPG 14 17 combined city/hwy city hwy 6.7 gal/100 mi | 592 grams/mile | |
| Range not available | ||
| 1997 Isuzu Trooper 3.2 L, 6 cyl, Manual 5-spd, Regular Gasoline | ||
| 15 MPG 14 17 combined city/hwy city hwy 6.7 gal/100 mi | 592 grams/mile |
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 is the fuel capacity of the Isuzu Trooper?
22.5 gal
Fuel & MPG
315.0/405.0 mi. 22.5 gal.
What problems did the 2004 Isuzu Trooper have?
Top Isuzu Trooper Problems
- Check Transmission Light With Code 37. ...
- Valve Train Noise Due to Varnish Build up. ...
- Excessive Engine Oil Consumption. ...
- Fuel level sensor failure. ...
- Rough idle due to leading intake manifold gasket. ...
- Engine Oil Leak From Front Crankshaft Seal. ...
- Engine oil leak due to missing camshaft plug.
1997 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:
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Isuzu Trooper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Isuzu Trooper complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Isuzu Trooper.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-26
- VIN: JACDJ58VXV7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WE BOUGHT A 1997 ISUZU TROOPER IN FEBRUARY OF 2010 FROM A USED DEALER...THE REAR AXLE AND THE FRAME ARE SEVERELY ROTTED...THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE AND WE HAVE THAT IN WRITING..WHAT CAN WE DO?...WE CAN'T GET OUR MONEY BACK...THE VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVABLE....PLEASE HELP. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-06
- VIN: JACDJ58V9V7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HYDROLIC LIFTERS STICK, VERY LOUD AND NOTICABLE ENGINE NOISE. THEY HAVE STUCK SINCE SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE OF VEHICLE. THEY UNSTICK IMMEDIATELY AFTER SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE, BUT ONLY FOR A BRIEF PERIOD OF TIME.*AK DEALERSHIP(S) USED THIS WINDOW OF TIME TO THIER ADVANTAGE TO AVOID REPAIRING VEHICLE UNDER WARRANTY, SENDING CONSUMER AWAY TO SEE IF IT WORKS. MANAUFACTURER RECOMMENDS SYNTHETIC OIL TO CORRECT. DOES NOT WORK. SEVERAL INCIDENTS. COUNTLESS FAILURES. WILL PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR NEW LIFTERS, APPROXIMATELY $1,800.00.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-19
- VIN: JACDJ58V4V7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: DURING BRAKING, WITH NO GAS PEDAL PRESSURE BEING APPLIED, ENGINE CONTINUED AT HIGH RPMS MAKING BRAKING DIFFICULT. VEHICLE WITH NO GAS PEDAL PRESSURE WOULD PROCEED AT 30 MPH IN DRIVE POSITION OF AUTO TRANS. UPON EXITING ROADWAY, WHEN APPLING GAS PEDAL WHILE IN PARK POSITION, AND RELEASING PEDDLE, RPMS WERE AT 2200. PEDAL WAS OPPERATING FREELY AND THROTTLE CABLE/YOKE WAS IN FULLY RETURNED POSITION. I THEN CONTINUED LOOKING FOR ANY OBVIOUS OBSTRUCTIONS OR SEPERATED VACUMN LINES. NOTHING APPEARED WRONG. I THEN DISCONNECTED THE MASS AIR SENSOR CAUSING THE ENGINE TO STALL. UPON RECONNECTING AMS AND RESTARTING ENGINE, IDLE RETURNED TO AROUND 700 RPM'S AND NO FURTHER PROBLEMS OCCURED FOR THE REMAINDER OF MY DRIVE(APPROX 100MI MORE) NO FURTHER DIAGNOSTICS WERE PERFORMED YET. VEHICLE IS WELL MAINTAINED AND HAS 65000 MILES USE.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-27
- VIN: JACDJ58V6V7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH THROWOUT BEARING FAILED CAUSING VEHICAL TO BE INOPERABLE STRANDING DRIVER IN TRAFFIC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-27
- VIN: JACDJ58V6V7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CUTCH FAILURE CAUSING VEHICLE TO BE INOPERABLE STRANDING DRIVER IN TRAFFIC. SECOND CLUTCH FAILURE FOR THIS VEHICLE WITH IN 37,000 MILES OF HIGHWAY DRIVING
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A HIDEOUS, LOUD NOISE COMES FROM UNDERNEATH THE CHASSIS. THE DEALER TOLD ME IT COMES FROM THE MUFFLER. IT WAS REPORTED TO THE DEALER WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER REFUSE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER TELLS ME THAT IT WOULD COST IN EXCESS OF $800 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND SHOULD BE FIXED EITHER BY THE DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURER. THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN A SERVICE BULLETIN OR A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM, BECAUSE THE DEALER, WHEN I MENTIONED THE PROBLEM THE VERY FIRST TIME, PICKED UP ON IT RIGHT AWAY.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-28
- VIN: KABDJ58V1V7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE FLUID LEAKS. BRAKE LIGHT WOULD COME ON. BRAKE PEDAL WOULD GO TO THE FLOOR WHEN APPL STEERING SHAFT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- VIN: JACDJ58VXV7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE ACCELERATING AWAY FROM A STOP SIGN I DEPRESSED THE CLUTH TO ENGAGE SECOND GEAR. THE CLUTCH PEDAL DROPPED TO THE FLOOR AND I COASTED TO A STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC AND HAD TO PUSH THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD OUT OF HARMS WAY. THE FAILURE WAS IN THE
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V6V7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKE SYSTEM DOES NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE IN A STEEP SLOPE AND VEHICLE EXPERIENCES EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES CONTINUALLY. *MJS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-01
- VIN: JACDJ58V8V7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE THROWOUT BEARING FAILED WHERE IT ATTACHES TO THE PRESSURE PLATE. THE ATTACHMENT POINT IS COMPOSED OF A SERIES OF SPRING STEEL FINGERS THAT ARE HELD TO THE PRESSURE PLATE WITH A SPRING STEEL CLIP. THE SPRING STEEL CLIP SEPARATED FROM THE FINGERS CAUSING THE CLUTCH TO BE INOPERABLE. THE PRESSURE PLATE AND DRIVEN PLATE ARE IN GOOD CONDITION AND HAD ONLY MINIMAL WEAR. INSTEAD OF PUSHING THE FINGERS ON THE PRESSURE PLATE THIS DESIGN PULLS THE FINGERS. THE DESIGN IS EXTREMELY WEAK AND AN ADDITIONAL FAILURE WILL OCCUR. ONCE THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE THROWOUT BEARING AND PRESSURE PLATE FAIL IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND THE DRIVER IS STUCK IN THE ROAD AND UNABLE TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLES OR MANUEVER AROUND DANGEROUS SPOTS. THE ONLY SOLUTION IS A STRURDIER DESIGN THAT IS ABLE TO ABSORB THE DAILY USE OF THE CLUTCH. *AK.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-01
- VIN: JACDJ58VXV7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FUEL WARNING LIGHT MALFUNCTIONED. *YC
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V2V7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING BOX SHAFT SECTOR AND PITMAN ARM FAILED. MJS
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JACDJ58V2V7
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE'S FRONT END VERY OFTEN NEEDS WHEEL ALIGNMENT AFTER TRAVELING OFF ROAD. MJS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-15
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END COLLISION TRAVELING ABOUT 45 MPH, IMPACT 30 MPH, DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END. THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, CAUSING INJURIES TO THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER. *AK
1997 Isuzu Trooper recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 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: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITHOUT A LOCK WASHER AND/OR SCREWS IN THE FRONT HUB.
- Consequence: THE BEARING ADJUSTMENT NUT CAN LOOSEN, RESULTING IN TOO MUCH FREE PLAY BETWEEN THE WHEEL AND AXLE. THE BEARING CAN SEIZE, CAUSING THE WHEEL TO LOCK AFFECTING VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT HUBS TO DETERMINE IF THE LOCK WASHER AND SCREWS WERE PROPERLY INSTALLED. IF NOT, THEY WILL MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS.
Negative 1997 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
Positive 1997 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
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I had one of these a few years back and I regret selling it. It was a nice ride and had loads of room. The only negatives were poor fuel economy and it didn't hold its value very well after Consumer Reports fabricated a story about it rolling over.
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Hey there! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your SUV. I just wanted to let you know that the new 2003 model will be built in the USA. It'll be interesting to see how it turns out!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1996 Isuzu Trooper. I've been the proud owner since January of 1997 and I've only had to replace the battery twice. It's been such a reliable vehicle that I haven't had any mechanical problems at all. Can you believe it still has the original brakes on the front? My mechanic says I still have about 40% of the use of the front brakes remaining. I've put 105,000 miles on it and it's still going strong!
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You can count on this vehicle to be reliable and have low maintenance costs.
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We bought our '97 Isuzu Trooper in September 2002 with 90,000 miles for $8000. It's been a great vehicle for us and currently has 137,000 miles. We've only had to replace the fuel pump, but other than that, it's been solid and reliable. We really enjoy driving our Trooper!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Isuzu Trooper problems:
1997 Isuzu Trooper, Run it into the ground, Sell it, or Fix it up ...
Aug 16, 2023 ... And ive had a few other problems fixed by mechanics like a bad alternator, getting new tires, diagnostics...
1997 Isuzu Trooper Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top 1997 Isuzu Trooper Problems · Check Transmission Light With Code 37. 28 people have reported this · Valve Train Noise Due to Varnish Build up. 25 people ...
The real truth on the 2nd Gen's | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 11, 2012 ... I've had some problems with the Transmission ... 1997 Isuzu Trooper LS 4dr SUV 4WD Review My ... I don't know about the reliability of other ...
Isuzu Trooper 92: Q&A on Surging Issues & Common Problems
Oct 25, 2010 ... 1992 Isuzu Trooper w/ 190000 miles. Runs fine when cold, surges (searching, engine revs & falls), loses power & - Answered by a verified ...
Reliability of older Isuzu Troopers | Expedition Portal
Dec 7, 2018 ... I know that some maintenance will be inevitable but don't want to volunteer to rehabilitate a vehicle with known issues fleetwide. Concerning ...
Other years of Isuzu Trooper
Are you having problems with your 1997 Isuzu Trooper?
Mitchel Erdman 2024-10-20
I'm not going to buy ISU again.
Halle Rutherford 2024-08-11
I've had this Isuzu for almost three years and it's been a real blessing for the whole family. It has the power you need and the reliability to take you anywhere. In my opinion, it's a better car than any Ford or Chevy SUV out there.
Chance Howe 2024-07-25
I purchased my vehicle with approximately 40,000 miles and have since driven it up to 81,000 miles. Overall, it has proven to be a reliable car. However, the 4WD system can be quite noisy and there is a slight oil leak in one of the valve covers. Unfortunately, the gas mileage has been a bit of a disappointment, especially considering the 3.2 liter engine. In the city, I get less than 15 mpg, even though I drive conservatively. On longer trips, I can get up to 18 mpg, but only if I keep my speed below 70 mph. Additionally, there is a slight coolant leak in the heater that would be expensive to repair, although it's not too noticeable except in cold and wet weather when it can be difficult to keep the front window defrosted.
Lennie Steuber 2024-02-21
We purchased a 5-speed truck and got a great deal. Who wants a manual 4500lb truck? It drives like an army truck, so it's a bit sluggish. I'm not sure about the automatics, but I presume they're the same. The 4WD is fantastic, a true 4x4. We haven't had any major problems, except for when I broke the clutch off-roading, but that was my fault. The turn signal stick fell off and the cheap glued-on material on the door fell off, but that's about it. We did have some trouble with the security system, and finding someone who knows about Isuzus is like finding someone who speaks ancient Aramaic. The dealers and company were not very helpful, but the truck is tough!
Rocio Ruecker 2024-01-14
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.