1995 Isuzu Rodeo S review from North America

Unusual oil leak at two spark plug tubes since day one--did not affect performance, needed an extra qt. of oil per month. Was eventually fixed by mechanic.

Replaced brake shoes at 96K.

Replaced timing belt at 98K.

Replaced valve cover gaskets at 130K.

Since hitting 130K, this truck has required the replacement of the spark plug harness 3x--don't know why.

Gets the same mpg today as it did when I drove it off the lot new 9 years ago.

Had a leak in the clutch master and slave cylinders around 120K (2003)

Replaced the A/C system in 2003.

Shocks gave out around 110K.

Replaced driver's side wheel bearings at 130K, repacked passenger's side.

Replaced front passenger side hub at 135K--broken/loose studs due too bad/weak design according to mechanic. Driver's side front studs were tack welded in place (they would spin in place, making tire removal difficult or near impossible.)

Upholstery holding up well, but padding could stand replacing in front bucket seats.

Driver's side windshield wiper stopped working in a light rain in Jan. 2004--connector rod broken, passenger side wiper works fine.

The rubber boots surrounding the ball joints are dry rotting, requires occasional shots of grease.

Despite the multitudes of service calls required over the last 12 months, this has been an extremely reliable and sturdy truck. Most problems are due simply to age and increasing mileage. All in all, I spent no more than $250 per year (if that) in maintenance (including oil changes at home) for the first 7 years of its life.

I've taken this truck from NC to TX 3x, 1x to Arizona, countless times to NJ, 2x to Colorado, 2x to FL and once to Minnesota, and all trips were mechanically uneventful and comfortable. Last long distance trip was to Houston, TX in August 2003.

Interior is spacious, good towing capacity, and I've never gotten stuck. Very reliable. Plus, at 141K, I'm still on the original clutch.