1988 Isuzu Trooper II 4x4 review from North America

Aluminum heads either cracked or blew gaskets three times within 40K miles, and this was without overheating problems according to a temperature gage, water pump, and radiator that were all found to be in working order.

Granted, I got this car with a lot of miles already on it, and I got it for a very good price -- or so I thought. Every mechanic I know and trust says the same thing about the 4-cylinder, 2.6 liter motor, "they're underpowered and thus problematic." Its always the same problem, cracked heads or blown head gaskets due to the combined traits of being too small a motor in a large vehicle AND expecting it's aluminum head to handle the task. Honest mechanics have even declined to rebuild it for me because they know its reputation. These are good guys whom I know.

Good side, relatively economical for an SUV with a heavy four wheel drive transmission to tote around. Averaged 18 miles per gallon in city, 22 highway.

Excellent visibility, view in all directions.

Classic 'box'-y design still looks good after many years. Notice lately Mercedes and Toyota have brought out extremely box-y new 4x4 models.

The automatic transmission has a good reputation. Even if it slips a little or is sluggish to awake on cool mornings its really not going out! I know this from both my '88 and '89 Troopers, both in the 175,000-215,000 mile range. Just do a simple transmission filter change. I've even talked to transmission shop owners about this, they've told me they almost never have to fix '88 or '89 Trooper II automatic transmissions.

I've also heard good reports on the '90 and '91 V6 motors from mechanics who rebuild engines. Apparently here in the states it used some American auto maker's motor (was it GM?).