Common flaw for this engine-It burns about a quart of oil every 600 miles.
Fuel pump went out the other day-150,000 miles.
Another common flaw for this engine-The EGR valve needs to be replaced.
The front end suspensoin is loose and shaky at speed.
The shock absorbers are completely blown.
This is a great looking car with a lot of clever details designerd into it. When they say utility, they're not kidding. I've had everything from 12 mounted tires to a motor scooter in the back of this car, and I was still able to close the tailgate and back window. The manual transmission is great to have on curvy roads and on the highway. Not only does it improve performance, but it adds some fun to the drive as well. Unfortunatly, this excellent vehicle is spoiled by a notoriously unreliable engine. I have yet to see an Isuzu with this engine with more than 170,000 miles. A comparable Toyota 4Runner can run well twice as long. I'm a mechanic, and nothing on this engine makes sense. Not only is the labor ridiculous, but the parts are hard to find, and once they're found, they cost as much as-or more than-comparable BMW parts.
Hmmm, I'm surprised you've never seen/heard of this particular motor lasting for more than 170k miles.
I currently have 175k miles on my '97 Rodeo, owned since new, and haven't had to put a dime in her aside from normal maintenance.
Go to automotiveforums.com, planetisuzoo.com; or 4x4wire.com - there are PLENTY of 93-97 Isuzu Rodeo's with the 3.2L engine on the road, many many of them are FAR past 170k miles with no major issues and all original equipment.
I'm currently on my 2nd Rodeo, and 2nd Toyota, and I'll tell you, my Rodeo's have been more reliable then my Toyota trucks have been.
Parts are not that hard to come by, just have to know where to get them.
Problem with Isuzu's is many many people buy them, neglect them, then get upset and put a bad rap on the manufactorer when they are the ones at fault for neglecting normal routine maintenance.
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