1991 Isuzu Rodeo LX review from North America
"Excellent car. Tough and reliable"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
First alternator changed at 160000km.
Another alternator was installed at 260000km. Mechanic said something about potential shortage that caused high stress on the alternators.
Aside from the alternater, I've also replaced the block heater twice. At 210000km and 270000km respectively. No serious damage. Appeared the individual who performed the first replacement over tightened the part.
Staring at around 250000km, the main engine control module fuse started to burn out rather often. Mechanic tried tracing the wiring but failed to find the problem.
At 270000km, I got stranded at the middle of nowhere. This is the only time the car failed me. Turned out the wires connecting the fuel pump were too corroded to continue its service. I spent a $1000 to replace the entire assembly, and it took over a week to get the correct part. Parts for this car is getting hard to find. This also appeared to fix the engine control module fuse problem.
At the 270000km inspection, it appeared both CV boots were torn. Mechanic suggested replacement of both boots and half shafts. He warned that it's not going to be cheap, considering if I can find the parts for it. The mechanical components for this particular year is unique from the 3.2L V6 of the newer models.
Special thanks to the Al at the local Isuzu dealership who tried everything to get me the correct parts.
General comments?
Extremely reliable until 250000km. After all, it's 14 years old.
After the few repairs, car is still running strong.
Best compact SUV at that price range. Very roomy.
Very little maintenance required.
However, be reminded that parts for the car is getting harder to source, and even if you can source them, it's not cheap.
Uses too much gas! It's powerful, but came at a price.
Recommended reviews
| Great car for the price |
| OK I guess - nothing special |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1991 |
| Year of manufacture | 1991 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 100000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 280000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 14th February, 2005 |