2002 Isuzu Rodeo Reviews from North America

I love this vehicle! It does have its issues though..

Pros:

I totaled a Dodge Ram when it rear ended me, so it's like a mini tank

Perfect for a girl (like me) or a guy.

Reliable.

Doesn't use too much oil.

Gas mileage is okay (it would be better for me when I get the check engine light fixed).

Safe.

Great to go mudding in :)

Cons:

It squeaks when you go down a bumpy road or gravel path.

Rear windshield wiper didn't work when I got it.

Check engine lights have been on since I've had it.

O2 sensors (all 3) need replacing.

Catalytic converter needs replacing.

Exhaust leak near the front of the vehicle.

Compressor for the air conditioning is going out.

Front passenger window is starting to slag in the track, but still rolls up fine.

This was a repossession and had over 160xxx miles on it, so mines going to have issues. I'm getting them all fixed, and thankfully the parts I've found (new) have been cheap. I love my Isuzu, and if I could trade it in for a brand new one (same make and model), I would (mine has a few dents and scratches because of mudding and the dummy who rear ended me)...

Replaced oxygen sensor at 120,000 miles.

Replaced timing belt and water pump at 100,000 miles (preventive maintenance).

Normal maintenance performed at proper intervals.

Was reading some other comments on this car, so thought I'd chime in.

The car has been very good and reliable. Does use oil and the rear wiper no longer works, but overall, I got my money's worth out of it.

Still own it and drive it. Also use it for towing utility trailer. Will need some transmission work soon, but what would you expect with 185000 miles on it?

What things haven't gone wrong...

Neutral safety switch went out.

Gear shifter snapped.

Head gasket blew at 65,000 miles ($4000).

I've had three coolant leaks.

Transmission just went out, but I can't see what's wrong because the hood release cable decided to break as well!

I've had this car not even two years, and have already had to replace the brakes twice; they definitely prematurely wear.

I haven't had money to keep up with regular maintenance, because I spend about $300/month fixing things. Piece of junk, would never, ever, ever buy one again.

Nothing

I don't get why everyone hates these Rodeos. My family has four of them, ranging from 01's to 03's. We have never had a single problem with them. We originally bought one for my mom and enjoyed the treatment at the dealership and the quality of the vehicle so much we came back for 3 others. If you drive like a maniac and gas hard and brake hard of course you are going to have issues and excess oil consumption. My first car was a 1990 Isuzu Amigo 4x4 and I did my dumb teen best to destroy it in the mud and swamps of Florida, but it was too well made. That vehicle made my father a believer of the brand. And if you do have any major problems, of course there are exceptions when you mass produce anything, you always have the lengthy 10 year warranty to comfort you.