1998 Isuzu Rodeo LS 3.6 from North America
Summary:
Nice looking, fun SUV for small change
Faults:
There are times when it is cold outside that the engine will idle higher than normal. I had to replace the electric window switch on the drivers door.
General Comments:
I have to say that I am very happy with my Rodeo. I have the 5 speed manual, V6 That's very fun to drive. My favorite point of this vehicle is it's duality. I can drive my daughter to school in comfort with reasonable handling and ride quality and if, on the way home I spot a nice dirt road, one push of the 4WD button and it's fun in the mud. The Rodeo is not flawless and there are nicer SUV's of the same year. It has it's quirks, particularly in the cold it may take several attempts to start or Idle very high. The cabin is very roomy, you can fold the rear seats flat and get some impressive cargo space. I like the look of the exterior and if you keep it nice and clean you can't really tell its almost 10 years old. I should add that with it's limited problems my Rodeo still has 144,000 miles on it.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st December, 2007
13th Sep 2007, 23:55
Hmmm, I'm surprised you've never seen/heard of this particular motor lasting for more than 170k miles.
I currently have 175k miles on my '97 Rodeo, owned since new, and haven't had to put a dime in her aside from normal maintenance.
Go to automotiveforums.com, planetisuzoo.com; or 4x4wire.com - there are PLENTY of 93-97 Isuzu Rodeo's with the 3.2L engine on the road, many many of them are FAR past 170k miles with no major issues and all original equipment.
I'm currently on my 2nd Rodeo, and 2nd Toyota, and I'll tell you, my Rodeo's have been more reliable than my Toyota trucks have been.
Parts are not that hard to come by; you just have to know where to get them.
Problem with Isuzu's is many many people buy them, neglect them, then get upset and put a bad rap on the manufacturer, when they are the ones at fault for neglecting normal routine maintenance.