1995 Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 3.2 from North America

Summary:

Well suited family SUV that adapts easily to moderate off-roading

Faults:

Shifting into 5th gear is difficult since 130,000 kms(just as easy without using the clutch)

Bucks uncontrollably under 2000 rpm after splashing through water or when the climate is really wet. (since about 130,000 kms)

Center bearing shot at 140,000 kms

New Clutch at 120,000.

New Brakes at 110,000.

Fuel sending unit is exposed on the underside leaving it vulnerable to damage from running over brush.

Rear axles seem to be a bit undersized. I had to replace a bent axle when I purchased the vehicle, and I acquired another bent axle as a result of a hidden pot hole. In addition the axles are NOT cheap. ($450.00 CAD)

No leaks at all on this vehicle until 150,000 kms. At this point rear differential seal and valve covers started leaking.

General Comments:

I frequently use this vehicle in the backwoods of British Columbia, and the foot print/weight/angles of attack are beautiful for this type of country side. I have left behind almost all similar sized stock SUVs with the exception of a trooper.

Adding homemade shackles to the rear and torquing up the front end I was able to get enough clearance to put on a set of 10.5 x 31 tires. I found the Geolanders work beautiful for this truck in both on and off-road driving.

Room under the rear seats allows for a nice hidden spot to secure some basic tools.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 28th August, 2003

1995 Isuzu Rodeo ES 3.2 V6 from North America

Summary:

I would buy another

Faults:

Replaced clutch at 25K (lemon).

In recent months: belts, alternator, actuator arms (power locks), window motors, radiator, rear axle assembly.

General Comments:

Overall I still love the vehicle, even as it dies. Its great in the snow and has plenty of room inside.

Ergonomic problems have been corrected in later models.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th May, 2003

1995 Isuzu Rodeo 4x4 3.2 Liter 24 valve V6 from North America

Summary:

An alright car for a family that wants room and reliability

Faults:

Needed to replace the starter 3 months after I bought the car in 01. For parts and labor it came to $300.00.

Driver side window some times gets stuck going up and you have to pull it up until to motor decides to kick back in. When driving on the highway its seems the window is an AGR and doesn't fit 100% thus causing loud wind noise to enter the vehicle.

When I bought the car it had a lifter problem in the engine and still does today. It makes an annoying ticking sound like a time bomb. But to date I have not had any major engine problems.

Rear power door locks sometimes stick so you have to pull them up manually to let some one in.

General Comments:

I think the engine has potential to be strong, but I don't pull any thing. However it's an engine you let take its self its not an overly fast vehicle off the line. If I were to recommend this car to someone I would recommend they buy a stick shift model.

Very roomy inside, but get a lot of complaints about no cup holders.

Gas is about an average of 15 mpg.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 17th January, 2003

1st Jun 2003, 19:56

I have the same year of Rodeo as you. The tick is nothing serious and will happen on any Isuzu vehicle. It is nothing to worry about.

30th Sep 2004, 14:46

I just bought a 95 rodeo I fixed the sticky drivers window pull the electronic switchs up its easy. When you look at it You will notice a little plastic tab. Take a knife and break the tab off works great!! You will see what I mean when you go there. Dan.

1995 Isuzu Rodeo S 4WD 3.2 V-6 from North America

Summary:

Durable, comfortable, fun truck

Faults:

Recall on factory brush guard.

Driver's side power window regulator.

Power locks.

Rear hatch latch spring.

Fixable oil leak.

General Comments:

Great truck. Comfortable on long trips and capable for most off-road excursions (never gotten stuck).

Fairly good mileage. No cup holders, though, and by '95 Isuzu should have had shift-on-the-fly 4WD: you gotta stop, put 'er in park and then engage.

Towed my heavy boat for 2,000 miles without giving up.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 20th August, 2000

22nd Mar 2001, 15:59

This vehicle is marketed by GM as Frontera in UK. Interesting to read your reviews in the States. I have a 3 door 2 litre (1996) that has to be stopped and put into 4 WD and then reversed out of it. Newer redesigned model here has all gizmos including switchable on the move. Good fun vehicle and nice shape but design faults. We currently pay 72p. (100p = £1) a litre for petrol (sorry gas!) so not cheap to run.

Tony - Cheshire, UK.