1995 Isuzu Rodeo S, 4WD from North America - Comments

Body hardware - specifically the locking mechanisms in the doors. (See below for greater detail).

Replaced shocks (routine maintenance) @ 95,000 miles.

Alternator was replaced at 85,000 before I bought it.

Heater/AC control wouldn't switch blower to any position besides floor vent even though control could be moved.

Dash light bulb behind speedometer went out.

Reviews are correct about brakes being sub-par. They haven't failed or anything though. I'm usually depressing the pedal for about a second before the power-assist braking kicks in. I had to have the rotors turned even though pads were not even worn through - perhaps that was from the previous owner though.

For those who like SUVs that ride like a truck - before they started making them feel like cars - this may be your vehicle. Isuzu changed the Rodeo after 97 into a less impressive off-road machine, but with a more comfortable city ride.

A lot of wind and road noise on the highway.

I don't like the low mounted stereo - it's hard to reach. (they moved it up with a dash re-styling in mid 1995) - look for the 1995 1/2 or later models for a nicer dash arrangement (similar to a 1998 4-runner dash).

Although I've only had the car for about 8000 miles, it is obvious that the body hardware lacks integrity. I've had to replace a plastic piece of the door locking mechanism in 3 of the 4 doors. Additionally, I've had to overhaul the locking mechanism in the tailgate.

I usually get about 15 miles per gallon with about 60% of the miles in city driving.

The seating is not very comfortable - not much padding.

I love the car when it snows and it is very fun to take up in the hills or out in the dirt. The 4WD has good gear ratios - it gets pretty low in 4 low. No shift on the fly doesn't bother me. My parents had a car that shifted on the fly and they always had problems getting it to lock in 4-wheel. This car locks in everytime and I've had no problem with unlocking the auto hubs by backing up a few feet.

Very helpful review - the detail was really helpful. I wish all the reviews were written this well.

I bought a 1995.5 3.2L LS in 1996 and it has been a reliable workhorse for me ever since. I have used mine for everything from towing boats to pulling stumps, not to mention plowing through snow and medium off-roading. Plus, it's a great looking vehicle still today and drives decently around town.

The only non-scheduled repairs I have had to make on the vehicle in all of those years have been fixing leaking valve cover gaskets, a new starter, a rear window latch, and dashboard lights that burn own frequently. Other than that, the thing has performed like a champ. Oh, and the way the paint job has held up to 11 years of salt, snow and sun is simply amazing.

Even if it's not the most quiet or comfortable SUV on the road, Isuzu got so much right with this vehicle that I'm even considering buying another 1995 if I find the right one.

TIP: If you need to replace the starter on the 1995.5 3.2L V6. You'll need to take the starter apart to get it out and to put the new one back in. The exhaust pipe doesn't give room to do it in one piece.