2002 Isuzu Rodeo Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.17/5 Average
79 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2002, Isuzu has fiddled with the Rodeo's option packages and improved the available Intelligent Suspension Control (ISC) system.

Pros:
  • Stylish exterior, great powertrain warranty.
Cons:
  • Cheap interior pieces, flaccid suspension, uncomfortable front seats, questionable build quality.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 79.00
  • 2002 rodeo s - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    Bought used with low miles, plan jane suv 4 cyl and 5 speed manual with ac, it never let me down. I have taken it across country 2 times in hot weather and it ran cool and ac worked fine, I got about 27-28 mpg on the trips. The only thing Ive done to it is put a battery and a k and n air filter on it in 4 years. It just runs and runs.

  • honesty is the best... - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    Vehicle is simple and strait forward. I like the controls that take the mystery out of running a vehicle. Drives well but is a little truck-like in ride. One major problem that took 2 weeks to fix centered around the ABS system. The part was on factory order... The front seats limit the back passengers leg room. Power is weak so get the bigger engine. The front seats need to go back further, so if your over 6 feet tall... Also the steering wheel should be angled higher. Beautiful to look at though. Not a bad price considering the other SUVs on the market.

  • nice suv - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    i enjoy driving it and taking freeway turns

  • Not a reliable car in the long run - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I bought this car used and it was great, I loved it and everything was fine... and then it hit the 60,000 mile mark. EVERYTHING fell apart on the car. Head gasket, fuel pump, transmission, EVP, everything went on the car. The same thing happened to a family member with the same model of car. If you have one, get rid of it before the mileage gets too high or youll end up with a couple thousand dollars worth of repairs. Even following the scheduled maintenance, and regular oil changes the car doesnt hold up.

  • Buyer Beware - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    Ive had my Rodeo in the shop a dozen times. The drive shaft and airbag had to be repaired 4 times each. It had begun to rattle and squeak badly. This, by the way, is not a warranty item after a year the dealer tells me. Unfortunatly, what started out as a great bargain has turned out to be a bad deal on my part. No wonder Isuzus sales slipped over 40% last year.badly. Which, by the way, is not a warranty item after a year the dealer tells me. Unfortunalty, what started out as a great bargain has turned out to be a bad deal on my part. No wonder Isuzus sales slipped over 40% last year.

  • Sporty & Fun - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I, like most others, checked my options before deciding on the Rodeo. Though I havent had it long - I love it so far. It is a great size for me (however, my husband seems a bit cramped when he rides or drives it.) My only concern is that, when parking on a hill, after releasing my foot from the brake....it doesnt sound quite right. I am not sure exactly what it is, but it makes a groaning noise and rolls back a little. Having never owned an SUV, maybe that is common. I have thoroughly enjoyed my sporty mid- size and would definately recommend it to others. Great price (in comparison to others) and GREAT warranty!

  • Not made for bumpy roads! - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I love the way it looks after its cleaned and the 6-Disc In dash CD is great. Thats where my admiration for this SUV ends. The suspension BITES! I had a persistent problem with the slip yoke. Isuzu knows admits its an engineering flaw but will not do much to fix it. No recall. The worse thing about this beautiful looking car is that it drinks gas like no bodies business. How about 12-16 mph HIGHWAY for a small V6! And I may be giving it too much credit with those estimates. My next car is going to be a Honda Civic or some hybrid. Thats what this beast has done to me.

  • Nice SUV - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I owned a Ford Explorer prior to my Rodeo. I would rate the overall performance and ride equally, despite the much higher price tag on the Explorer. What the Rodeo gives up in space, it more than makes up for in looks, performance, pricing and warranty coveage.

  • THIS IS A GREAT SUV! - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I couldnt find a better deal than this and it has been a great choice so far! I have the 02 Rodeo LS 4WD and it looks and rides excellent! I have the factory stereo and think it is just fine, despite others poor reviews of it. The sliding sunrood and side tubes were a nice addition too. Highly recommend this one!!

  • No problems!! - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
    By -

    I have had my black Rodeo LS for 5 years now. All I have had to do was buy new tires. And that was because after 5 years all tires need replacing. My Rodeo still looks and runs the same as when I bought it. I have never had a problem with this vehicle and I am very happy that I chose to buy it! It has been worth every penny. I am sorry they quit making them because I would buy another one. I will keep it forever. I might even buy a used one someday to have another one. They are so reliable, I never worry on the road that my Rodeo will break down on me or not start. I really do love it!!

Isuzu Rodeo Reviews By Year:
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