1997 Isuzu Rodeo S/LS from North America - Comments

Just the usual wear/tear items, 2 batteries, altenators, 1 power steering pump, Rear ABS sensor, 3 sets of tires, nothing that hasn't just flat WORN out with use.

1 new set of valve cover gaskets is the only major work truck has had done to it, that was at 100K miles with having done a lot of 3K# pound towing, off-roading, etc.

Am writing this as an additional review to others I've written on this board in the past - for the same 1997 Rodeo.

Truck is not quick by today's standards for other SUV's. But I would trust it much farther down the road then other trucks/SUV's.

Truck still has original engine, transmission, suspension, etc. Not one single major engine fix yet, i. e no rear main seal replacement, no head gasket issues, etc.

Labor for routine maintenance work is not exactly cheap, only few mechanics TRULY know the Isuzu engine. But with proper maintenance these engines will run forever.

Paint doesn't have a single chip, wax the truck at least twice a year - looks brand-new even at 8yrs old.

I would not choose to buy a brand-new Rodeo at this point; don't care for the design of the 98+years.

Am looking at getting a 2000-2002 Trooper however; but I will NOT be getting rid of my old faithful Rodeo.

Suspension doesn't deliver the greatest ride, you surely know you're in a truck. But I've never had a single suspension expense, other than new shocks; does NOT have brake issues, only on my 2nd set. Have never put a dime into the brake system, just the pads themselves.

Original rotors

original fuel pump.

Don't and have never had a single complaint. Mind you I VERY religiously maintain this truck, as it goes where I want to go.

It's NEVER once stranded me; nor does it know what the back of a tow truck looks like!

Have to laugh, as everyone always thought I was insane for buying Isuzu - now those same people are on their 2nd vehicles in the time I've had mine, and they're still having problems with the newer vehicle!

Trust it over any American made vehicle - sorry, but my parents religously maintain their vehicles as well, and they're on their 2nd american truck. Their 1999 3/4 ton 6L Vortec chevy's main computer crapped out at 90K miles, 2nd clutch soon followed after only 20K miles, there were other issues as well.

I do have one complaint, I wish Isuzu made a full size truck OF THEIR OWN, NOT with Chevrolet - that, I would purchase.

I, too, have a 1997 Rodeo which is very dependable. A belt is making a squealing noise when I first start it. The alternator belt has been tightened and then replaced. All the other belts have also been replaced. I cannot find anyone who seems to know how to make the squealing stop.