1989 Isuzu Trooper SE from North America - Comments

Gas pump, replaced three times, constant problems with the engine shutting off in the middle of the road.

Stay away from the old models, maybe the new ones have been updated and improved but the old model offers a rough ride and is not reliable. Towing costs have been more than gas for me in an average month.

Having bought an Isuzu Trooper Citation 2.8 TDI on 129,000 miles, I find it ideal for towing (so long as you are in the right gear). It is also very good in off road condition's on the down's here in Hampshire GB.

Fuel economy is also very good. I will certainly buy another one, perhaps a 3 litre model?

Gordon Smith, England

Perhaps some explanation of "towing" is in order. I believe my fellow Yank was referring to having his trooper towed behind ANOTHER vehicle (i.e. a wrecker) because it decided to quit working.

First of all, I own a 91 trooper. It has 175,000 miles on her, and she runs like a dream. The only fixes I've done on her is a new alternator and brakes. Everything else is just maintaining her. I think his problem was, he got a 4 cylinder motor. Unless its diesel, you should get a 6 cylinder. Of course theres gonna be problems with a 4 cylinder motor in any vehicle you have. I have had mine for 2 years and never a problem, never did she set me back in any way. She does extremely well in any conditions. If you might be looking to purchase an SUV, you might consider the Isuzu trooper. They are an under-appreciated SUV. Also, stay away from the newer models. anything less than a 92 isn't as stout.

Ian.

I own a 1991 Trooper 2.8 Tdi SWB and the only thing I have replaced since 1992 is engine oil and brakes other wise it's teh best 4x4 by far.

Good SUV! USA

My 1989 Trooper has 160,000 and is running good.

It's a great 4x4 vehicle.

Never did any major repairs yet.

I would say the worst thing about it is the fact that it has a Chevy 2.8 engine.

It has been from east to west and north to south. Been four wheeling in Moab Utah, Colorado, Texas, New Hampshire, Minnesota etc. Never any trouble.

I got a 89 trooper it lasted two days before it died. turns out the man who sold it to me put block seal in it so it would last just long enough to test drive and take home. cracked and warped head/block bent valves, blow by. better luck to the rest of you out there. Sincerely, man in riverside California.

Bought my 2.6 litre (4 cylinder) trooper new in 1990. First clutch lasted 216,000 Km. Head gasket at 180,000km. Couple of alternators, one starter replaced. No other problems in 16 years. At 251,000 km it has easily passed another emissions test. Body is now in sad shape though so have replaced it with a newer model trooper. If it's half as good as the old beast, we'll be pleased.