Isuzu Bighorn Reviews

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14th Dec 2011, 02:00

We have a 1995 Bighorn, but it's just blown the motor at 181,000k's. We tow a 450mt Nomad caravan, and the BH has 'spat the dummy'. Anyone else had a similar problem?

We've managed to have the engine replaced with a second-hand motor, but are somewhat apprehensive about towing again. Anyone else had this problem? We kept the servicing up on the vehicle, but it still blew.

In reply to 14th Dec 2011, 02:00

20th Mar 2012, 22:56

That's what happens when you put a turbo in a truck... especially when towing.

In reply to 20th Mar 2012, 22:56

9th Oct 2012, 17:33

If the car is looked after and the cooling system is in good shape, there is no reason why they can't go forever. Mine has 420,000km and only a slight shift flare into 3rd to show for it.

In reply to 20th Mar 2012, 22:56

20th Nov 2012, 03:47

Most big rigs on the road have turbos and or superchargers, so "putting a turbo in a truck" works well if you ask those who know.

1994 Isuzu Bighorn 3.1 turbo diesel from Australia and New Zealand

Year of manufacture	1994
First year of ownership	2004
Most recent year of ownership	2009
Engine and transmission	3.1 turbo diesel Manual
Performance marks	7 / 10
Reliability marks	8 / 10
Comfort marks	8 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper)	7 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)	7.5 / 10
Distance when acquired	170000 kilometres
Most recent distance	220000 kilometres
Previous car	Mazda Proceed Marvie

Summary:

I have a very high opinion of this vehicle, and it is better than I would have expected or hoped

Faults:

Other than the usual disc pad replacement, I have had to replace the left rear disc, as the locating pins of the caliper seized. Consequently the caliper would not self adjust, causing the disc to wear on the inside.

I had to have the alternator reconditioned at approx. 200,000 kms.

I have just had the injectors replaced and pump timing reset.

The wagon is still running its original clutch, which surprises me.

General Comments:

The wagon is very comfortable on and off road. It has taken me places that I wouldn't want to walk.

There is more than enough room and reasonably quiet except for traveling at speed for a reasonable length of time. This tends to dull the sensitivity of ones ears after a while. Probably its worst point.

For its size and weight, it handles amazingly well. Better than I would have expected for a vehicle of its type.

I've read of bad fuel economy with these vehicles, and as ours had slipped to 27 mpg, I decided to have the injectors replaced. I'm expecting this to increase to around 30 mpg or better, and the signs are good so far.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th December, 2009

Comment on this review

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25th May 2011, 16:09

Does anyone know why when I select Drive on the auto box of a 94 L reg 3.1 Lotus Bighorn it does not seem to go in to top? Also the overdrive switch when pressed does nothing, all other gears engage?

The check transmission light is also flashing.

I have checked the auto box oil level and it is just below the low level line on the dip stick, how do I top it up?

In reply to 25th May 2011, 16:09

7th May 2012, 21:58

Yeah mate, had the same problem with mine. Took it to the garage I deal with. Replaced some sensors in the gear box. It performs better and changes gears quicker now.

In reply to 25th May 2011, 16:09

29th Jul 2012, 23:42

Hello. I also have had the same issues with my Isuzu; same model as yours. The problem you mentioned about the gearbox not going into over drive, was easily fixed by replacing a faulty sensor on the gear box. Also, this makes the gears change quicker and smoother.

Second, the flashing light; I got told not to worry about it, as it could be a faulty sensor.

In reply to 29th Jul 2012, 23:42

11th Jan 2013, 23:32

Re: Faulty sensor. Do you guys who replaced this sensor have any info on this? Where is the sensor located and what it is called, so I can order one, as my BH is doing similar things.

Thanks.

In reply to 11th Jan 2013, 23:32

23rd Jan 2013, 17:02

The sensor is underneath the car on the gearbox. It's either that, or the speed sensor on the dashboard speedo cluster. Either way, they are both a cheap second hand replacement.

In reply to 23rd Jan 2013, 17:02

19th Feb 2013, 02:17

Cool, thanks.