1997 Isuzu Rodeo LS review from North America
"It's a rugged, good looking, SUV"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The blower motor stopped working. Called the dealer and found that there is a tech bulletin that identifies a hole that allows moisture from the AC to leak into the blower motor area. The moisture eventually hits the capacitor which shots out. The hole needs to be filled to prevent the same problem from recurring.
Transmission is a sealed unit and can only be changed by the dealer. I tow a boat and change my fluid often so it's about double the cost of a Speedy Lube or other volume chain.
General comments?
My previous vehicle was a 1994 4X4 4 Runner with auto trans. and a 3.0L V-6. It couldn't get out of it's own way and gas mileage was terrible. It allowed less road noise than the Rodeo.
The Rodeo is much quicker than the 4 Runner and gets much better gas mileage. It can also tow more. I find it much more fun to drive.
Adults are comfortable in the Rodeo. Couldn't get in the rear seat of the 4 Runner.
I live in NH. Don't understand why anyone would buy a 4600 pound vehicle like the Rodeo with a 4 cylinder engine.
Don't understand why anyone would want a 2 wheel drive SUV or truck. Buy a station wagon and get the better gas mileage.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Mean-Lean Driving Machine |
| I found pure awsome in a car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.2L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 82000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 92000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota 4Runner |
| Date of Entry | 26th July, 2003 |