Isuzu common faults and how to fix them
Faults that are well known on Isuzu models we hold manuals for: what the owner notices, what causes it, and the pages in our manuals that cover the repair.
- Isuzu transmission: 4L30E P1870 and torque converter clutch slip
- Isuzu Rodeo timing belt recall: 2.2 four-cylinder (1998–2000)
- Isuzu Rodeo and Amigo recall: rear axle lower link nut and bolt
Isuzu transmission: 4L30E P1870 and torque converter clutch slip
Symptoms
The transmission warning light comes on and code P1870 (torque converter clutch slip) is stored.
Cause
Isuzu bulletin SB02-05-S003 covers the 4L30E four-speed automatic in models such as the Rodeo and Amigo. It found that the main case bolts were not tightened correctly, so the adapter plate gaskets slipped out of position. That created an internal hydraulic leak and low fluid pressure to the lock-up clutch. A later bulletin (SB03-05-S001) adds further P1870 diagnosis.
Fix
Check the fluid level and condition and read the codes first. If P1870 is stored, follow the Isuzu 4L30E P1870 bulletin, which replaces the adapter plate gaskets and torques the main case bolts correctly. The job needs the gearbox out and special tools including a transmission holding fixture. The Rodeo transmission bulletin gives the later diagnosis steps.
Repair instructions on this site
- Isuzu bulletin SB02-05-S003: 4L30E, P1870 stored (Rodeo LS 3.2, 1999)
- Isuzu bulletin SB03-05-S001: P1870 stored in memory (Rodeo LS 3.2, 1999)
- All Rodeo manuals
Sources: Isuzu service bulletins SB02-05-S003 and SB03-05-S001.
Isuzu Rodeo timing belt recall: 2.2 four-cylinder (1998–2000)
Symptoms
The engine cranks but will not start, or stalls while driving and will not restart. There is usually no warning beforehand.
Cause
NHTSA campaign 01I002000 covers the 1998–2000 Rodeo and Amigo with the 2.2 four-cylinder engine. The timing belt could break before its scheduled replacement interval. NHTSA treated it as a safety improvement campaign rather than a safety defect.
Fix
Check with an Isuzu dealer, or the service history, whether the campaign work has been done; it replaced the timing belt and tensioner. On any 2.2 Rodeo or Amigo with no record of a belt change, replace the belt and tensioner now rather than waiting for the interval. The Isuzu Rodeo timing belt campaign notice gives the details. Line up all the timing marks before turning the engine over.
Repair instructions on this site
Sources: NHTSA campaign 01I002000.
Isuzu Rodeo and Amigo recall: rear axle lower link nut and bolt
Symptoms
Usually nothing until the nut has worked loose. If the bolt then comes out, the lower link separates from the rear axle and the vehicle can become hard to control.
Cause
NHTSA recall 00V058000 covers certain Rodeo and Amigo sport utility vehicles. Paint was applied unevenly on the rear axles, leaving it too soft where the lower link bracket bolt head and nut clamp against it, so the nut could loosen. In the worst case the bolt could come out completely, separating the lower link from the axle and risking loss of control.
Fix
Check with an Isuzu dealer that the recall has been done; the remedy replaces the rear axle lower link nut and bolt free of charge. On any Rodeo or Amigo, check the lower link fixings for tightness and signs of movement. The Isuzu rear axle recall notice gives the details.
Repair instructions on this site
Sources: NHTSA recall 00V058000.