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1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Isuzu Rodeo includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Isuzu Rodeo.
1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Doors: Unless the front-fender liners have been replaced, ice and snow can build up between the door and fender which caused door damage when it is opened. (1998)
Fuel gauge: The gas gauge may indicate full after a fill-up, then not move until the tank is half empty. (1998)
Rough idle: High/erratic idle on the 3.2-liter V6 may be due to one or more of the following: bad electrical ground, debris in power steering pressure switch, leaking manifold gasket. (1998-2000)
Steering problems: The steering wheel may shimmy or vibrate unless a steering-yoke spring kit is installed. (1998)
Transmission slippage: Delayed transmission engagement, after sitting overnight, may occur due to torque-converter draindown. (1998-99)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $685
Alternator $295
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $620
Brakes $280
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $1,110
Exhaust System $320
Radiator $660
Shocks and/or Struts $200
Timing Chain or Belt $100
Universal Joints $120
NHTSA Recall History
1998 w/optional floormat: Repeated movement of feet can result in shifting of mat, which could interfere with gas pedal.
1998: Ground terminal was not properly crimped in engine-wiring harness, which will eventually cause stress fracture; could result in "no-start" or engine stalling.
1998-99: Paint was applied unevenly on rear axles of certain vehicles; could cause loosening of nut at lower-link bracket bolt.
1998-99: The rear-axle lower link may become separated from the rear axle.
1999: Vehicles fail to comply with federal requirement for "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
2000-01: Airbag inflators may contain too much generant. Exploding airbag module could cause severe injury.
2000-01: Airbag will not inflate properly due to the absence of a necessary component known as a check-valve pin.
2001: The fuel-return hose does not meet ozone-resistant specifications and could crack, causing fuel leakage.
2002-03 Rodeo Sport: In five specified states, if fuel has been contaminated with silicon, small pinholes may develop in fuel pump feed port; leakage could lead to fire.
2002-04: In five specified states, if fuel has been contaminated with silicon, small pinholes may develop in fuel pump feed port; leakage could lead to fire.
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