1999 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 1999 Isuzu Trooper problems
The Isuzu Trooper, a popular 4x4 vehicle, has been known to have several common problems that affect its performance and reliability. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from car owners:
- Engine Oil Light Illuminated: If the engine oil warning light is lit even after refilling the oil, it's possible that there is a leak in the differential, which tends to happen around the 55,000-mile mark. Replacing the differential can be expensive, but doing it yourself with a replacement from BreakerYard can save on mechanic fees.
- Excessive Fuel Use: If the car is using more fuel than usual and experiencing starting problems, the fuel pump may be failing. Replacing the fuel pump with a new one from BreakerYard and following online guides for installation can resolve this issue.
- Rough Idling: Rough idling on the Trooper is often caused by a damaged intake manifold gasket. Replacing the gasket with a new one from BreakerYard is a straightforward process.
- Ticking From Valve Train: A ticking sound coming from the engine valve train area is likely due to varnish build-up in the hydraulic lash adjusters. Using a higher quality oil can help resolve this issue.
- Oil Leak: A faulty front crankshaft oil seal is the most likely cause of an oil leak in the Trooper. A revised design is available from BreakerYard to fix this issue.
- Rattling From Front of the Car: A rattling sound coming from the front of the car is often caused by a failing timing chain tensioner. Replacing the tensioner with a new one from BreakerYard can resolve this issue.
- Power Loss: Power loss and check engine light illumination are often signs of a failing catalytic converter. Replacing the catalytic converter with a new one from BreakerYard can resolve this issue.
- 4WD Indicator Staying On: If the 4WD indicator stays on even when the car is in 2WD, it's likely that there is a faulty vacuum hose, solenoid, or engine valve. Replacing the faulty part with a new one from BreakerYard can resolve this issue.
- Differential Leak: Oil weeping or leaking out from underneath the vehicle between the two rear wheels is caused by a leaking differential. Replacing the differential can resolve this issue.
While the Isuzu Trooper has had some recalls related to the diesel models, it is generally considered a reliable vehicle with above-average reliability levels. However, when issues do arise, they tend to be related to the fuel system, engine, and brakes, with failed fuel injectors being a common problem that can be costly to fix.
Why did they stop making Isuzu Troopers?
SUV market changes and safety concerns doomed the Trooper
By the early 2000s, the SUV market in the United States was dramatically different than when the Trooper first rose to prominence, with consumers eschewing the Trooper's utilitarian design in favor of SUVs boasting more compact features.
What size engine is in a 1999 Isuzu Trooper?
3.5 L V61999 Isuzu Trooper / Engine
What was the last year Isuzu made the Trooper?
In 2002, the Trooper was discontinued in the United States in favor of the smaller Axiom and the larger GM-produced Isuzu Ascender, a rebadged GMC Envoy.
What car is the same as Isuzu Trooper?
The Isuzu Trooper Was Also a Subaru, an Acura and… the Holden Jackaroo.
1999 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Isuzu Trooper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Isuzu Trooper
The NHTSA has received 81 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Isuzu Trooper. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Isuzu Trooper vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- VIN: JACDJ58X8X7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 75000 MILES. BURNS A QUART OF OIL EVERY FEW HUNDRED MILES. NO OIL LIGHT COMES UP. I RAN IT ALMOST OUT OF OIL IN 06/2018
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-10
- VIN: JACDJ58X9X7
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE IT BEGAN TO SURGE AS IF IT WAS STUCK IN HIGH GEAR. THE GAS PEDDLE SEEMED TO BE STUCK AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO GO FASTER AND FASTER. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE TIRES SCREECHED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL IN MOTION FORWARD. I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AND APPLIED THE BRAKES TO STOP THE AUTO.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-21
- VIN: JACDJ58X8X7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: LAST 3 WEEKS - INITIALLY SEEMED LIKE POWER LOSS/SURGE, THEN HEARD UNUSUAL SOUND COMING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT 1 WEEK AGO, ENGINE STARTED TO DIE WHILE OPERATING ON CITY/RESIDENTIAL STREETS WHENEVER NOT PUSHING GAS (SLOWING TO TURN OR STOP) FRIDAY, WOULD NOT EVEN HOLD IDLE TO START, PUSHED GAS AND HELD RPM'S AT 1 - 1.5 FOR A WHILE AND FINALLY STARTED. TODAY, INITIALLY WOULD NOT START. NEXT TIME STARTED RPM'S AT OVER 2, DROPPED WHEN SHIFTED TO REVERSE, WHEN SHIFTED TO DRIVE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT USE OF GAS PEDAL UP TO STEADY 35 MPH ON CITY STREET. AFTER 1 MILE, AT NEXT INTERSECTION STARTED MAKING THAT STRANGE NOISE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT (LIKE AIR OR FLUID UNDER PRESSURE IE AIR COMPRESSOR/HIGH PRESSURE WATER SOUND) WHILE PRESSING BRAKE SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL RPM'S REVVED TO 2.5, IN DRIVE AND REVERSE DROPPED TO 1.5, IN PARK REVVED TO 2.5, AFTER TURN AUTOMOBILE ACCELERATED TO STEADY 40 MPH ON CITY STREET WITHOUT GAS BEING PUSHED AT NEXT STOP (1 MILE) RETURNED TO NORMAL IDLE AND OPERATION. HAS PROBLEM BOTH WHEN COLD AND HOT WEATHER AND COLD OR HOT START. IT HAS NOT PRODUCED A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT OR ANY CODES
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-13
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME HARD TO PRESS THEN ENGAGED AND UNABLE TO CONTROL SPEED. ALL THE WHILE FRANTICLY APPLYING THE BRAKE TRYING TO RELEASE THE ACCELERATOR, I HAD TO FORCE THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR [PARK] WHERE THE VEHICLE THEN REVVED INTO THE RED ZONE BEFORE PUTTING OFF. I THEN TRIED RESTARTING THE VEHICLE UP AND AGAIN THE ACCELERATOR REMAINED ENGAGED [STUCK] AND WOULD NOT RELEASE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-13
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME HARD TO PRESS THEN ENGAGED AND UNABLE TO CONTROL SPEED]. ALL THE WHILE FRANTICLY APPLYING THE BRAKE AN TRYING TO RELEASE THE ACCELERATOR, I HAD TO FORCE THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR [PARK] WHERE THE VEHICLE THEN REVVED INTO THE RED ZONE BEFORE CUTTING OFF. I THEN TRIED RESTARTING THE VEHICLE UP AND AGAIN THE ACCELERATOR REMAINED ENGAGED [STUCK] AND WOULD NOT RELEASE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-20
- VIN: JACDJ58X1X7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING ON HILLEN ROAD AND E. 33RD ST IN BALTIMORE, MD. THE WEATHER WAS LIGHT RAINING AND MISTY. AS I APPROACHED 33RD AND THE ALAMEDA I ENGAGED MY BRAKES, THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP AT FIRST AND HEARD A LOUD BANG. AT FIRST I THOUGHT I HIT SOMETHING IN THE ROAD AND HAD FLAT TIRES. I TIRED TO DRIFT OUT OF THE INTERSECTION INTO A SAFE LOCATION AND PUT MY HAZARD LIGHTS ON. MY GRANDSON GOT OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND CHECKED FOR ANY VISUAL DAMAGES. THERE WERE NONE. AS I TRIED TO DRIVE OUT OF THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC THE NOISE WAS HORRIFIC AND AS IF ALL COMPONENTS OF MY BRAKES WERE RATTLING WITHIN THE WHEELS. I PULLED ALONG THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CALLED FOR A TOW. AFTER INSPECTION AT THE REPAIR SHOP I WAS TOLD THAT THE ABS RING HAD SHATTERED INSIDE THE BRAKE ASSEMBLY. WHEN I WENT TO THE SHOP, THE MECHANIC SHOWED ME WHAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE ABS RING, SHATTERED INTO MANY SMALL PIECES. THANK GOD I WAS ABLE TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE AND AVOID WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN A TRAGIC ACCIDENT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-10
- VIN: JACDJ58X2X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 99 ISUZU TROOPER 3.5 ENGINE BURNS OIL EXCESSIVELY. I AM ORIGINAL OWNER AND REGULARLY SERVICED PER OWNERS MANUAL. AT 50K MILES, ENGINE OIL LIGHT TURNED ON 2,500 MILES AFTER OIL CHANGE AND WAS OVER 4 QTS LOW. ENGINE NOW AT 60K MI AND BURNING APPROX. 1 QT PER 600-700 MILES. SEEMS TO BE COMMON ENGINE DEFECT KNOWN BY MECHANICS AND OWNERS, BUT ISUZU UNWILLING TO ACKNOWLEDGE PROBLEM. THOUGH MONITORING CONSTANTLY, I AM JUST WAITING FOR SIGNIFICANT ENGINE FAILURE. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-12
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: HI, THIS IS THE SECOND USED CAR I BOUGH FROM INFINITY AUTOS, THE FIRST ONE WAS A 97 DODGE CARAVAN, IT HAD TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING I PAID $300.00 TO FIX SOMETHING IN THE MOTOR OMAR FROM THIS DEALERSHIP NEVER TOOK CARE OF THIS FOR LIKE HE SAID SO I PAID OFF THE VAN I NEED A NEWER BETTER CAR SO I TRADED THIS CAR IN FOR A ISUZU 1999, I USED THE VAN AS A DOWN PAYMENT +I GAVE HIM $300.00 DOLLARS, I TOLD HIM THAN MARCH, 2009 THIS CAR BETTER BE IN BETTER CONDITION AGAIN HE SAID NO PROBLEM, THERE WERE THINGS ON THIS CAR THAT NEEDED TO REPLACED, LIKE PANEL IN THE BACK OF THE CAR NO SPARE TIRE, PARTS OF THE CAR INSIDE WERE MISSING NO RADIO, I BOUGHT ONE ALL THESE THINGS HE SAID JUST LIKE MY VAN WERE NOT TAKEN CARE OF, I AM ANGRY WITH HIM BECAUSE I HAVE BEEN A LOYAL CUSTOMER OF HIS, I WENT BACK TO HIM BECAUSE HE WAS THE ONLY DEALER SHIP THAT WOULD GIVE ME CREDIT, BEFORE THIS I PAID MY PAYMENTS, ON TIME, ONE TIME WITH THE VAN I HAD RO SKIP A PAYMENT BECAUSE THE VAN WAS IN THE SHOP, HE SAID HE WILL NOT REIMBURSE ME BECAUSE I DID NOT LET HIS WORKERS TAKE CARE OF IT I TOOK THE VAN BACK TO HIM THREE TIMES BEFORE IT WAS NOT TAKEN CARE OF THIS WAS WITH IN 30 DAYS OF HAVING THE VAN ANYWAY I PAID FOR THE REPAIR, HE HAS A COPY, BUT WHEN I WENT TO TRADE THE CAR IN HE CHARGED ME $300.00 BECAUSE HE SAID I MISSED 1 PAYMENT I SAID OK GIVE ME THIS OTHER CAR, OK I HAD THE CAR 2 MONTH AND MY DAUGHTER PASSED AWAY, I CALLED THE DEALER SHIP AND TOLD HIM MY CIRCUMSTANCE, HE WANTED A $1000.00 DEPOSIT AND I AGREED TO COME UP WITH IT I DID NOT KNOW MY DAUGHTER WAS GOING TO DIE, SO WHEN I CALLED THEM I TALK TO OMAR AND TONIO THEY SAID OK, THAN ABOUT 1 WEEK I LOST MY JOB, AGAIN I CALLED THEM AND ASKED THEM IF THEY CAN LOWER MY PAYMENTS UNTIL I GET ANOTHER JOB THEY SAID NO, I SAID I WILL COME IN WHEN I GET THE MONEY THIS WAS IN JUNE I PAID 2 PAYMENTS . THE CAR THAT I WAS DRIVING NOW WAS DANGEROUSLY DEFECTED HAD BEEN A ACCIDENT AND WAS STOLEN CAR WHICH HE CHARGED ME FULL PRICE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JACDJ58X2X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I GET FREQUENT OIL CHANGES IN MY 99 ISUZU TROOPER AND HAD JUST GOTTEN ONE LAST MONTH. I HAD AT LEAST 2700 MILES BEFORE MY NEXT ONE. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AND I SAW SMOKE COMING FROM MY HOOD AND ALL MY DASH LIGHTS CAME ON LIKE A CHRISTMAS TREE. I PULLED OVER AND FOUND OUT THAT MY ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. I CALLED THE FIRE DEPT TO PUT IT OUT AND GOT IT TOWED TO MY HOUSE TO LATER FIND OUT THAT THE PISTON HAD GOT THROWN FROM THE ENGINE BECAUSE IT LOCKED UP DUE TO NO OIL GETTING TO THAT PISTON. SO NOW I HAVE TO GET A NEW ENGINE WHICH COST ABOUT THE SAME AS THE CAR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-03
- VIN: JACDF59X7X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I TOOK MY '99 ISUZU TROOPER TO GET AN OIL CHANGE, AND 3 WEEKS LATER THE OIL LIGHT TURNED ON. I WENT TO THE ISUZU DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR AND AFTER CHECKING THE OIL, THEY NOTICED THAT THERE ARE LESS THAN A LITER IN THE ENGINE. THEY FILLED IT AND ADDED A CONDITIONER TELLING ME THAT THAT SHOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. A FEW MONTHS LATER, DRIVING BACK FROM A TRIP, THE ENGINE BEGAN KNOCKING AND THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN. MOMENTS LATER I LOST POWER (RPMS) AND PULLED THE CAR OVER. THE MECHANIC WHO LOOKED AT MY CAR TOLD ME (AND THIS WAS CONFIRMED BY A CONSUMER REPORT WEBSITE) THAT '99 TROOPERS OFTEN HAVE "UNEXPLAINED LOSS OF OIL PRESSURE RESULTING IN THE ENGINE SEIZING." THE CAR NOW NEEDS A NEW ENGINE (APPROX 4000-9000 DOLLARS) OR A NEW CAR. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THE FAILURE OR DEFECT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-19
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE DIES WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. FROM 5 MPH TO 60 MPH. DIES WHILE TURNING, THEN STEERING WHEEL LOCKS UP. ALMOST BEEN IN A FEW ACCIDENTS. HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES THIS SUMMER. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. *AK ENGINE ALSO BURNS 1QT OIL EVER 1,000 MILES.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SOMETIME IN FEBRUARY OF THIS YEAR, THE ENGINE FAILED ON OUR 1999 ISUZU TROOPER, POSSIBLY DUE TO LOW OIL. NO WARNING LIGHTS OR SYMPTOMS OF ANY KIND - VEHICLE JUST QUIT ON ROUTE 95 IN MANSFIELD WHILE MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING HOME FROM BOWLING. CAR WAS TOWED TO LOCAL GARAGE, WHERE THEY CONFIRMED THAT ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED - IN FACT, THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER HAD LITERALLY PICKED PIECES UP FROM THE PAVEMENT UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. UPON SEARCHING FOR A NEW ENGINE, WE DISCOVERED THAT THEY WERE NOT EASY TO FIND UNLESS PURCHASED DIRECTLY FROM ISUZU, AND ACCORDING TO CONSUMER AFFAIRS WEBSITE, THIS IS PRIMARILY BECAUSE THIS TYPE OF FAILURE IS COMMON AMONG ISUZUS MANUFACTURED IN LATE 1990'S/EARLY 2000'S. OUR REGULAR MECHANIC, AND SEVERAL OTHERS QUESTIONED, CONFIRMED THAT THE ISUZU'S WERE NOTORIOUS FOR THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM. BOTTOM LINE, IT WOULD COST US $5000-$6000 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENGINE, WHICH IS ABOUT WHAT WE OWED ON THE CAR. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-01
- VIN: JACDJ58X9X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FROM THE TIME I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WAS ONLY A COUPLE YEARS OLD, EVERY TIME I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE IN FOR AN OIL CHANGE, THEY SAID IT WAS ALMOST EMPTY OF OIL. I BROUGHT IT IN TO A DEALER SEVERAL TIMES SINCE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THEY COULD NEVER FIND THE REASON FOR IT BURNING OIL. EVERY DEALER SAID IT WAS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE ISUZU, BUT THEY COULD NOT FIX IT BECAUSE THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL BURNING. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-01
- VIN: JACDJ58X6X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE OIL BURNING ISSUE. 1999 ISUZU TROOPER S. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. VEHICLE BURNS OVER 1 QUART OF OIL PER 3K MILES. HAS DONE THE SAME SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN 2003 WITH 52K MILES. NOW HAS 93K MILES. BASED ON ONLINE RESEARCH, THIS IS A DESIGN PROBLEM WITH THE OIL FLOW PORTS WITHIN THE 3.5 LITER V6 AND IS A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-06
- VIN: JACDJ58XXX7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45MPH, THERE WAS A KNOCKING NOISE WITHIN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AREA. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THERE WAS SLUDGE IN THE ENGINE AND THE OIL WAS DRY ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE RECEIVED REGULAR MAINTENANCE. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE ENGINE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY 1999 ISUZU TROOPER ENGINE SEIZED UP. NO WARNING LIGHT OR ANY INDICATIONS THAT ANY THING WAS WRONG. TOWED IT TO A MECHANIC AND THEY SAID IT HAD NO OIL IN IT. I HAD JUST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE 1 MONTH EARLIER AND HAD THE OIL CHANGED/FILLED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE PURCHASE. I HAD DRIVEN IT LESS THAN 2000 MILES. I NOW SEE THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN WELL DOCUMENTED ON THE INTERNET. NOW I AM HAVING TO REPLACE AN ENGINE WHICH COULD BE MORE THAN THE COST OF THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE MANUFACTURERS OIL CONSUMPTION DEFECT AND LACK OF LOW OIL GAUGE/WARNING. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-09
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED A NEW TROOPER IN 1999 AND DID EVERY REQUIRED MAINTENANCE ON TIME AT A AUTHORIZE ISUZU DEALER. AFTER THE 5 YEAR 60,000 MILE WARRANTY WAS UP WE STARTED TAKING IT TO A REPUTABLE NATIONAL OIL CHANGE COMPANY. WE NEVER HAD ANY INDICATION IT WAS USING OIL AT AN ABNORMAL RATE. IT WAS NOT LEAKING OIL, IT WAS NOT BURNING OIL AND THE OIL LIGHT WAS NOT COMING ON. ONE DAY THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND MY WIFE IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AND WE ADDED OIL. IT WOULD RUN ROUGH AND TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC WHO DID SOME MAINTENANCE WORK. I HAD NOT TOTALLY WRECKED THE ENGINE. I GOT IT DRIVING GOOD FOR ABOUT $2,000 AND HOPED THIS HAD FIXED THE PROBLEM. WE ADDED AND CHECK THE OIL EVERY 500 MILES. TWO MONTHS LATER THE ENGINE SEIZED AND I AM NOW TOLD I NEED A NEW ENGINE. AFTER SEARCHING THE INTERNET I HAVE FOUND MANY OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS ENGINE OIL PROBLEM. ESTIMATED COSTS TO REPLACE THE ENGINE ARE $4K-$6K WHICH IS ABOUT BLUE BOOK FOR THE TROOPER AND NOW I WOULD HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN PUTTING A 1999 ENGINE WITH KNOWN PROBLEMS IN AS A REPLACEMENT. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING SOUTH ON US INTERSTATE 89 NEAR MONTPELIER, VT, PULLED OVER TO ADJUST STUCK WINDSHIELD WIPER (DUE TO SNOW). AFTER EXITING HIGHWAY VIA EXIT RAMP AND PARKING IN A PARKING LOT, RETURNED TOWARDS HIGHWAY AFTER ABOUT A 5 MINUTE DELAY. AS WAS ACCELERATING UP THE ON RAMP, TRANSMISSION "LET GO" AND ENGINE REVVED. TRANSMISSION WOULD NO LONGER SHIFT AND REMAINED STUCK IN 2ND GEAR. LIMPED TO NEAREST SERVICE STATION. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO ISUZU DEALERSHIP WHERE METAL WAS FOUND IN THE TRANNY PAN UPON INSPECTION INDICATING TRANSMISSION FAILURE. VEHICLE HAD 79K MILES, WAS SERVICED AT 60K AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS, NO OTHER DRIVETRAIN PROBLEMS OR INDICATION OF IMMINENT FAILURE BEFORE INCIDENT. TRANSMISSION (4L30E) HAD TO BE REPLACED WITH NEW TRANSMISSION. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-18
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BURNING TOO MUCH OIL WITH ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING. MY CHECK OIL LIGHT HAS NEVER COME ON. HAVE TAKEN IT FOR 3,000 MILE OIL CHANGES A COUPLE TIMES TO FIND NO OIL AND NO TRACE OF OIL IN IT, THOUGH I HAD FILLED IT TO WHERE THE DIPSTICK REGISTERED FULL WITHIN THE LAST SEVENTY MILES. I CAN'T MAKE A DECENT STAB AT ESTIMATING HOW MUCH IT BURNS BECAUSE IT SEEMS TO BE FINE AND THEN BE EMPTY. IT DOESN'T LEAK ANYWHERE AND IT DOESN'T SMELL LIKE IT'S BURNING IT, BUT IT'S JUST GONE. I HAVE TO STAY ON TOP OF THIS ALL OF THE TIME; IT'S A DRAG. I'M GOING TO GO CHECK IT NOW WHILE I'M THINKING ABOUT IT. I AM WONDERING IF WHATEVER THIS DEFECT IS AFFECTING MY MILEAGE BECAUSE I ONLY GET 16 MPG. MY MECHANICS SAY THE ONLY THING I CAN DO IS GET THE ENGINE REBUILT. I DO WISH ISUZU WOULD HELP OUT HERE. I LIKE THE VEHICLE AND AM NOT IN A POSITION TO HAVE THE ENGINE REBUILT OR BUY ANOTHER CAR. I WOULD ALSO FEEL BADLY SELLING THIS TO SOMEONE KNOWING THE ENGINE COULD LOCK-UP WITH NO NOTICE. AND IF I TELL THEM, WHO WOULD BUY IT? *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-07
- VIN: JACDJ58X0X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WE BOUGHT A 1999 TROOPER FROM THE DEALER THAT WAS NEVER REGISTERED, BUT THAT THE DEALER HAD DRIVEN FOR 14,000 MILES. WE WERE TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT A NEW FACTORY WARRANTY APPLIED AS WE WERE THE "ORIGINAL RETAIL PURCHASER." AFTER DRIVING THIS VEHICLE THREE YEARS AND LESS THAN 60,000 MILES, THE ENGINE FROZE GOING UP A MOUNTAIN PASS, ENDANGERING OUR LIVES AND OUR GRANDCHILDREN'S LIVES. WE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED AND NOW HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT WE NEEDED AN NEW ENGINE -- THOUGH THERE WAS STILL OIL IN THE ENGINE, THERE WERE SHARDS OF METAL IN THE OIL. (WE HAD PROPERLY MAINTAINED THE ENGINE MORE THAN REQUIRED UNDER WARRANTY BUT IT SEEMED TO BURN A LOT OF OIL OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS.) ISUZU DENIES THAT IT IS RESPONSIBLE, AND THE DEALER DENIES THAT THEY ARE RESPONSIBLE, SO WE ARE NOW STUCK WITH A VEHICLE WE'VE HAD THREE YEARS THAT WILL COST US $5,000 - $8,000 TO REPAIR (AND THAT WE STILL OWE 11K ON AND IS WORTH 6K AS A TRADE-IN OR 8K IF WE SELL IT OURSELVES). I NOW SEE OTHER EVIDENCE OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS VEHICLE ON THIS SITE AND HAVE TALKED WITH OTHER MECHANICS WHO HAVE SEEN SIMILAR PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE, YET MOST CONSUMERS DON'T SEEM TO FILE THESE REPORTS. I'VE HAD SEVERAL VEHICLES, AND MAINTAIN THEM WELL, AND HAVE NEVER HAD AN ENGINE FREEZE WITH 71,000 MILES ON IT. AS NEITHER ISUZU NOR THE DEALER HAS BEEN ABLE TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE NOR STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT, I HOPE THAT THE NHTSA INVESTIGATES THIS ISSUE SO THAT NO OTHER OWNERS OR PASSENGERS ARE PLACED IN POTENTIALLY DEADLY AND CERTAINLY COSTLY CIRCUMSTANCES AGAIN. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-15
- VIN: JACDJ58XXX7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED GAS WAS SPILLING OUT OF THE TOP OF GAS TANK. THE TANK WAS FULL OR HALF FULL, BUT WHEN STOPPING OR SLOWING DOWN THE FUEL SPILLED OUT OF THE TOP OF THE TANK. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR TWO AND A HALF WEEKS. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED, AND THEY SAID THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE, BUT IF HE WANTED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT THE DEALER WOULD FIX IT FOR HIM. HE HAS NOT DONE SO AT THIS TIME.*AK UPDATED 11/16/2005 - THE FUEL TANK BECAME RUSTED AT THE FUEL PUMP WHICH CAUSE FUEL TO LEAK FROM THE FUEL TANK ONTO THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE CONSUMER HAD TO PAY TO HAVE THE TANK, FUEL PUMP AND HOSES REPLACED BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. *NM
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-12
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR PROBLEMS: I WAS DRIVING ON AN INTERSTATE THE CAR JUST SHUT DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC, HAD IT TOWED, TOOK 3 DAYS TO GET CAR BACK, PUT IN THE SECOND ALTERNATOR, IT QUIT ALSO, AGAIN IN TRAFFIC HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED. *JB TRANSMISSION: WAS DRIVING THE IN TRAFFIC, TRIED TO DRIVE, AND THE CAR JUST SAT THERE, WOULDN'T GO, HAD TRANSMISSION PUT IN, TWO WEEKS LATER TRANSMISSION WENT OUT HAD ANOTHER TRANSMISSION PUT IN. 1999 TROOPER-APPARENTLY THESE HAVE GM TRANSMISSIONS..
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT OWNS 1999 ISUZU TROOPER. ON 8-04 SHE TOOK VEHICLE FOR 60,000 MILE MAINTENANCE AND VEHICLE BLEW UP IN 7-05. SHE SAID THE CAUSE WAS A PCV VALVE THAT DID NOT WORK AND ALLOWED THE OIL TO DRAIN INTO ANOTHER PART OF THE ENGINE. SHE HAD TO HAVE THE ENGINE REBUILT, AND THE MECHANIC THAT DID THE WORK TOLD HER THIS. SHE FELT THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE PCV VALVE. THE WARRANTY STATED THAT THE DEALER COVERED THE PARTS FROM THE ORIGINAL MANUFACTURER, LABOR PERFORMED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE REPAIR FOR 12 MONTHS OR 12,000 MILES, AND VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED UNDER BOTH PROTECTIONS. THEY WILL NOT COVER THE COST. THE DEALER LAUGHED AT THE CONTACT AND TOLD HER THE TROOPER WAS KNOWN FOR ENGINE FAILURE.*AK *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-19
- VIN: JACDJ58X4X7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 99 ISUZU TROOPER THAT BURNS A LOT OF OIL. I SERVICE IT PROPERLY AND TAKE GOOD CARE OF IT. ALTHOUGH IT NOW HAS 64000 MILES ON IT AND IS NOW OUT OF WARRANTY I THINK I NEED TO REPORT THIS. I HAVE TALKED TO MY DEALER AND I AM TAKING IT IN FOR SOME WORK THAT WILL AS THEY SAY CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. ARE THERE OTHERS OUT THERE THAT ARE HAVING THIS PROBLEM. *JB
Negative 1999 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
Positive 1999 Isuzu Trooper car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading your review of your car. It sounds like you've had some amazing adventures in it! From skiing trips to driving up to 13,000 feet, it seems like your car has been through it all. I'm glad to hear that it's held up so well over the years, with only a few minor repairs needed. And it's great that it's been able to comfortably fit your three kids in the backseat. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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I can tell you from personal experience that the Trooper is an exceptional vehicle. I've owned both a full size Bronco and Toyota 4Runner in the past, and while they were both great, the Trooper outshines them both. The Isuzu truck lineage is obvious in the design and build quality, which is on par with Toyota. I'm still impressed with the engine performance and braking. The luxurious and refined leather interior has held up well, even with my German Pointers as regular passengers. I've put 35,000 miles on mine without a single problem, not even a rattle.
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The vehicle has had absolutely no problems for 69,000 miles and its off-road capabilities are great. The TOD system works well, providing excellent traction. However, the air conditioning unit struggles to cool the vehicle when temperatures reach 85 degrees. Additionally, the gas mileage is poor, averaging 15 MPG overall.
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The Trooper is an impressive machine that delivers plenty of power and great mileage, averaging between 19 and 20 mpg with the manual transmission. Even with the stripped-down 's' model, it comes with a lot of standard features that Toyota and Honda charge a lot for at the dealership. I'm hard to impress, but the Trooper performs admirably. It's a tough and well-built truck that you can rely on. Demand more, and the Trooper delivers.
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You made a great choice by purchasing it at the end of the 99 model year. Despite having over 70K miles on it, you have had no problems with it, which is impressive. Regular maintenance and a set of tires over the past three years have kept it in great condition. It drives smoothly, is very comfortable, and has great brakes. You drive it approximately 80 miles every day and still enjoy driving it. Although you haven't had much off-road experience, it handled both snow and dirt roads well while camping. It also has great highway manners, even along the California coast. Overall, it's a fantastic bargain.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Isuzu Trooper problems:
1999 Isuzu Trooper | Expedition Portal
Jul 19, 2013 ... I'm going to go look at a 99 trooper tomorrow with 136k miles. What are some things I need to look for as far as mechanical issues.
1999 Isuzu Trooper Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1999 Isuzu Trooper? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 Isuzu Trooper.
The real truth on the 2nd Gen's | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 11, 2012 ... ... 1999 troopers have an oil burning problem. Vehicle 2002 Isuzu Trooper S 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M) Review Isuzu however did swap the engine ...
1999 Isuzu Rodeo Q&A: Common Problems & Expert Advice
Feb 10, 2011 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
98-04 Amigo/Rodeo Sport 3.2L typical issues? | Isuzu SUV Forum
Oct 13, 2018 ... A common problem in the rust belt is frame rot. The fuel sender issue is only applicable to a few 98-99 Rodeo/Amigo The 4L30e will operate ...
Other years of Isuzu Trooper
Are you having problems with your 1999 Isuzu Trooper?
Orlando Heidenreich 2024-11-03
I purchased the Isuzu Trooper based on great ratings on Edmunds, but unfortunately my experience has been poor so far. Thankfully, I had purchased an Eagle extended warranty when I bought it at 85K. In the past six months, I have had to replace the starter after waiting for 6 hours in a parking lot on 4th of July to be towed. Then, I had to replace the alternator and the engine, which cost $3,200, was just replaced under warranty. Although I saw great ratings on Edmunds, my mechanic informed me that he has seen nothing but problems with the ones he has serviced. He told me that engines are always a problem with these. I still like it, but I would recommend not buying one without an extended warranty!
Jaron Reynolds 2024-09-03
The Trooper may not hold its value, so if you're not planning on keeping it for the full term of the note, it may not be the best choice for you. While I got a great deal on a new one, I'll be upside down on my note for a while. As for comfort, it may not be the most comfortable ride, but it gets the job done.
Arch Kertzmann 2024-01-05
Hi there! I just wanted to say that I really like your SUV. From the moment I saw it, I thought it was really nice. However, I was wondering if there was anything you didn't like about it?