Search Consumer Guide Auto and the Web
 

1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Isuzu Rodeo. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Isuzu Rodeo.
1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Review
Redesigning of Isuzu's U.S.-built midsize sport-utility vehicle gave it rounded styling and extra power. Honda again marketed a retrimmed Rodeo as the Passport. Both were built from an Isuzu design at the Subaru-Isuzu assembly plant in Indiana. Just slightly longer than its predecessor, the revised Rodeo measured four inches wider. Shortening the wheelbase by 2.3 inches helped reduce curb weight by 285 pounds. A flip-up rear window was retained from the prior generation, but a side-hinged tailgate replaced the former drop-down gate. Ordinarily, the spare tire sat under the cargo area, but an externally mounted spare tire was a no-charge option. Two Rodeo versions were offered: S and better-equipped LS, with either 2-wheel drive or part-time 4-wheel drive, the latter for use on slippery surfaces only. A dashboard switch replaced a floor lever to activate the 4WD shift-on-the-fly transfer case. A 4-cylinder engine was standard on the 2-wheel-drive Rodeo S, while a 205-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 was standard on the LS and available on the S. A manual transmission was standard with either engine, but automatic came only with the V6. A Rodeo could tow as much as 4500 pounds. Dual airbags were installed in a redesigned dashboard. Four-wheel antilock braking was standard, not optional as before. Rivals included the Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Toyota 4Runner.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Isuzu Rodeo: A new top-of-the-line LSE model joined the lineup for 1999, featuring leather upholstery and a power moonroof. Otherwise, only minor equipment changes were evident. An outside-mounted spare tire was installed on 4WD LSE models, and offered as a no-charge option on others. A tilt steering wheel now was standard in all Rodeos with the V6 engine.
2000 Isuzu Rodeo: Adjustable shock absorbers were new this year and 16-inch tires replaced all 15-inchers, as Isuzu redesigned the front and rear fascias of this midsize SUV. Standard on the LSE and optional on LS, the new Intelligent Suspension Control featured a dashboard button to adjust shock damping between Sport and Normal settings. Honda Passports did not get the adjustable-shock system. A new Ironman package debuted for the LS, marking Isuzu's sponsorship of the Ironman triathlon competition. The package included white or black paint over grey lower body panels, crossbars for the roof rack, and special graphics. Cruise control now was standard on V6 Rodeos, and an automatic transmission became standard on the LSE edition.
2001 Isuzu Rodeo: In celebration of Isuzu's 85th year, an Anniversary Edition was added, along with a revised Ironman Package for 2001.
2002 Isuzu Rodeo: There were no significant changes for 2002.
2003 Isuzu Rodeo: There were no significant changes for 2003.
2004 Isuzu Rodeo: The Rodeo looses its 2-dr model and 4-cyl engine for '04, but gains a new optional 3.5-liter 250-hp engine. Added midyear was a standard tire-pressure monitor.
1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Road Test
Pros Cons
Passenger and cargo room Road noise
Acceleration (V6) Engine noise
Standard antilock braking Fuel economy
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Rodeo's suspension produces a stable ride without pitching or bouncing, though small bumps and imperfections produce unpleasant choppiness. Larger bumps and potholes are not absorbed nearly as well as they should be, as the ride becomes downright harsh. Lack of power with the 4-cylinder engine and manual shift isn't a big drawback. Rodeos with the V6 feel considerably livelier than before, promising brisk acceleration and good passing power. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and downshifts promptly. An LS 4WD averaged 15.8 mpg in mixed driving--about on target for its class. Interior space is greater than before, with good passenger room all around, except for a shortage of rear toe space. Even though the seat is not height adjustable and may not suit everyone, the driver enjoys a commanding position. The firmly padded seat earns high marks on its own. Controls for the climate and audio systems are recessed and demand a little too much of a stretch for no-distraction use by the driver. Stereo controls are too small, though the simple dashboard is otherwise pleasing. Step-in height is a little lower than the midsize-SUV norm, so getting in and out is no great chore. Rear doors permit passengers to slip through fairly easily, though we'd be more pleased if they opened a bit wider. Forward visibility is fine thanks to the low cowl and hood line. Looking rearward, however, the optional outside spare tire interferes with the driver's view. Operation of the new side-opening tailgate is a cumbersome, two-handed process.
Value for the Money
With the V6, a Rodeo accelerates better than most Japanese rivals, leaning toward the "sport" side of sport utility. Prices are not cheap, however, and Rodeo has no standout features that put it above the competition. That makes it an acceptable choice, but not a compelling one.
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Isuzu Rodeo LS 4WD Rating
Performance 4
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 2
Steering/Handling/Braking 4
Quietness 4
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 6
Room/Comfort (rear) 4
Cargo Capacity 8
Value within Class 3
Total: 44
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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.
1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Prices
Prices Good Average Poor
1998
Rodeo 2WD $2,600-3,600 $1,900-2,700 $500-800
Rodeo 4WD $3,400-4,500 $2,700-3,600 $900-1,200
1999
Rodeo 2WD $2,900-3,900 $2,200-3,000 $700-900
Rodeo 4WD $3,800-4,900 $3,100-4,000 $1,200-1,500
Rodeo LSE 2WD $4,600-5,300 $3,900-4,500 $1,700-2,000
Rodeo LSE 4WD $5,300-6,000 $4,600-5,200 $2,200-2,500
2000
Rodeo 2WD $3,300-4,800 $2,600-3,800 $800-1,200
Rodeo 4WD $4,600-5,700 $3,900-4,800 $1,700-2,100
Rodeo LSE 2WD $5,500-6,300 $4,700-5,400 $2,300-2,600
Rodeo LSE 4WD $6,500-7,400 $5,700-6,500 $2,900-3,300
2001
Rodeo 2WD $4,000-6,000 $3,300-4,900 $1,300-1,900
Rodeo 4WD $5,300-7,200 $4,600-6,200 $2,200-3,000
Rodeo LSE 2WD $6,300-7,200 $5,500-6,300 $2,800-3,200
Rodeo LSE 4WD $7,500-8,300 $6,800-7,500 $3,800-4,200
2002
Rodeo 2WD $5,400-7,300 $4,600-6,300 $2,200-3,000
Rodeo 4WD $7,000-8,300 $6,200-7,400 $3,300-3,900
Rodeo LSE 2WD $8,000-8,800 $7,200-7,900 $4,100-4,500
Rodeo LSE 4WD $9,200-10,200 $8,300-9,200 $4,800-5,300
2003
Rodeo 2WD $7,300-8,400 $6,600-7,600 $3,600-4,100
Rodeo 4WD $9,200-10,300 $8,300-9,300 $4,800-5,400
2004
Rodeo 2WD $9,500-10,600 $8,600-9,500 $4,900-5,500
Rodeo 4WD $11,200-12,300 $10,100-11,100 $6,000-6,600
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.
1998-2004 Isuzu Rodeo Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 106.4
Overall Length, in. 176.7-183.7
Overall Width, in. 70.4
Overall Height, in. 68.8
Curb Weight, lbs. 3860-4124
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 81.1
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 21.1
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head Room, in. 38.9
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.1
Rear Head Room, in. 38.3
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.0
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Powertrain Options and Availability
Depending on the model, a Rodeo could have a mild-mannered 4-cylinder engine with 5-speed manual shift, or a 205-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 with either the manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission became available with the 2.2-liter I4 in 2001. New for 2004 is a 3.5 liter 250-hp V6 engine, which replaces Rodeo's 4-cylinder.
Engines Size liters /
cu. in
Horse- power Torque Transmission:
EPA city/hgwy
Consumer Guide Observed
dohc I4 2.2 / 134 129-130 144 5-speed manual: 21/24
4-speed automatic: 17/22
5-speed manual: --
4-speed automatic: --
dohc V6 3.2 / 193 205 214 5-speed manual: 16/20
4-speed automatic: 18/20
5-speed manual: 17.4
4-speed automatic: 16.2
dohc V6 3.5 / 213 250 246 4-speed automatic: 17/21 4-speed automatic: --
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test 1999 Rodeo
Front Impact, Driver 4
Front Impact, Passenger 4
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Car Buying Resources

Trade-In Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth

Trade-In Calculator



Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer
Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.



What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn things



Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance



Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers
Sell Your Car
    Find a Used Car
Price Range:
to
 Radius:
    Vehicle History Report

FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before you buy.