Faults:

I have only had a couple of small issues with this vehicle. Pretty good considering it can see over 2000 miles or more in a single week from time to time. Like everyone else, the fuel gauge sending unit went out at about 60k miles. I have seen several other posts on this and the related costs. If you are still under powertrain warranty, this is covered! Take it to the dealer and have them replace it. The fuel pump is covered under warranty and the sending unit that runs your fuel gauge is attached to the pump.

Catalytic converter clogged causing the exhaust manifold to crack due to excessive back pressure at 96k miles. Isuzu wanted $1800 just for the catalytic converter. Bought a factory re-manufactured one from an exhaust shop for under $300. They still covered exhaust manifold under power train warranty.

General Comments:

I have had a lot of fun with this vehicle and it has been a workhorse! Great mileage (19/and up to 26 on the highway). I drive a lot and tow a boat that weighs 3000lbs with ease. (only rated for 2500 lbs with 4cyl) I also have a full size 2003 rodeo with V6. We have been really happy with it as well except for the gas mileage (16/19). I just wish you could still get a REAL Isuzu. Not a Chev-Suzu!

Faults:

This vehicle requires regular maintenance. It uses about one quart of oil between oil changes (every 3000) and the PCV valve must be changed every 6000 miles or so.

As with any SUV, gas mileage is not its greatest strength. Although, 17 city and 22 highway is quite reasonable for any SUV.

As with any vehicle, I would suggest a future owner to purchase a repair manual and follow the maintenance schedule. SUVs must have regular transmission service. I would also suggest that future owners get into the habit of checking the oil every time they fill the vehicle with fuel.

General Comments:

This vehicle has been very reliable and has plenty of power for the interstate as well as for off road driving.

Handling is very car-like. The normal top-heaviness of most SUVs is not evident. The Rodeo is also quite capable off road.

The interior is nicely designed and the seats are comfortable. I have heard that taller drivers dislike the closeness of the cabin, but, it suits me well (I'm only 5'6").

I have experienced some minor electrical problems related to the wipers and fuel sending unit.

Faults:

My SUV has 45.000 miles and all ready I had:

A. My engine light went on, because of the gas sensor in the gas tank.

Problem solved by the dealer and warranty (22.000 miles).

B. Rattle in the motor, the dealer said that was a design problem and some intake was replaced. Still on warranty (25.000 miles)

C. My engine light went on again, and this time it was the transaxle firing thing.

This was not cover by the warranty and they wanted $400 at the dealer, Thanks to a mechanic friend it was only $89. (32.000 miles)

D. My clutch dies, but this time it was the hydraulics, which is another $230 (40.000 miles)

E. My A/C compressor goes and that is a big $600 at (45.000 miles)

General Comments:

I have a manual Isuzu Rodeo, which comes with a four cylinder motor, that in my opinion is too small for the chassis of the SUV.

It’s a dependable vehicle that looks really GOOD and I love it, but as everything that I really love is always giving me a headache.