Isuzu Trooper

zman21 · May 2001

hi! it's been a while since my last post here. i found troopers in the philippines at www.isuzuphil.com. what got my attention are the headlight wipers and dual a/c. see for yourself guys.

paisan · May 2001

Yep the wipers and better headlight lenses/reflectors are std. on non-us market troopers.

-mike

erinsquared · May 2001

The amount of rock chip damage to my hood and glass have gone down since installing the protector, IMHO it is worth putting up with the slapping sound. What is amazing is that Isuzu designed the Trooper to run so quietly that any wind noise or a/c fan motor noise is clearly evident. I have thought about modifying the aerodynamics on the deflector to disturb the turbelence and possibly reduce the slapping sound. Will have to talk to my aerospace buddy...

conman2000 · May 2001

Thanks for the tips! I think I know the dealer you are talking about so I will avoid them. As for the CT dealer, I did talk to them before but they did not have any with MoonRoof. The Autobytel dealer did not return my calls yet so if they don't call back, I will wait a few months and try again. My wife likes the Montero so we might look into them as well. Will let you know!

Thanks,
Con

P.S. Blue, that seems like a great price if it is a 4wd, just a little to far to drive back though(thanks for the offer to pick me up!)

radman6 · May 2001

I also had all sorts of problems with the factory bug deflector. It was tapping on the fenders and making all kinds of snapping / tapping sounds that drove me crazy. One day when I was checking the paint rub behind the corner I accidently snapped about 6 inches of the corner off. It was truly a piece of junk and I was happy to be rid of it when I took it off.

I finally replaced it with a Lund Interceptor. Five minute install, nice looking unit, absolutely no problems with it. It stands off the hood a couple inches so you can even wash and wax behind it. It was $55.00 well spent. We have lots of sand and gravel on the roads here all winter long. We have road construction all Summer so the roads around here pretty much suck year round. The bug deflector saves the hood paint and helps protect the windshield. Everytime it deflects a stone I figure I save my $50.00 glass relacement deductible. I still end up replacing windshields on my vehicles about ever 1 1/2 to 2 years. Wish I would have put one on my pickup when it was new. Now the hoods all chipped up and I'm on windshield number 5.

kw9 · May 2001

I'm looking at buying my first Isuzu, a 93 Trooper AS with 26,000 miles. The silage is true and accurate (kept at a summer house for vacation use only, heated garage when not used). My questions - how do 93s hold up? What can I expect in maintenance issues? Are Isuzu parts expensive? Are they reliable? Despite the low silage are there any concerns about buying a car so old with such little use (dried seals, stuck plugs etc..)? I've reviewed previous posts and have some feel about Isuzu's but there don't seem to be many posts from owners of alder models. Everyone seems happy with there ewer models which I'd expect. Thanks for any help!

paisan · May 2001

Depending on the price that would determine if it was a good deal. The engine should be fine so long as it was used on a regular basis, even if not for very long. The '92-'01 body styles are almost identical, except for a curvier nose on the '98-01 models, and a bigger engine. The 3.2L DOHC or SOHC in the '93 is a good engine (same basic design as the current 3.5l and the 3.2l SOHC that went out in '97)

-mike

kw9 · May 2001

Price about 10K. Car wasn't used much if at all in the winter months. Strickly a summer car on an island. Left island only for service, which wasn't much. No signs of any rust from salt environment - kept garaged, (heated) when not in use.

Are third row seats available like I've seen in Asia?

Thanks

paisan · May 2001

3rd row seats are available from 3rd party vendors here in the states. Check out http://isuzu-suvs.com under the vendor section I believe it is "little 3rd seats" or something like that.

-mike

duktrooper · May 2001

sounds like a vintage vehicle!! could be lots of fun for a great price. You might want to check blue book value, even though mileage is very low.

kw9 · May 2001

Saw your post (#802) about Troopers with headlight wipers being non -US market cars. The 93 I'm looking at to possibly buy has those wipers - does that mean it's been brought in from overseas?

Thanks

paisan · May 2001

Nope, Pre-'98 Troopers in the US had the wipers on the lights. I guess they weren't seen as a useful feature in the US after '97.

-mike

bluedevils · May 2001

These may have been available pre-98 in the U.S., but I know they were not standard on all Troopers, since my 96 Trooper S did not have them.

chzbrg · May 2001

HELP!!! I own a 00 Limited Trooper and have just started to notice a squeak squeak sound coming from the front around the left drivers side and transmisson shifter area. It only happens when you turn the car off, or sometimes over bumps. Cant imagine it being the shocks, other wise it wouldnt do it when turning the vehicle off

paisan · May 2001

Chzbrg,
I had the same problem on my '97 Rodeo and '00 Trooper. Spray some silicone spray on the plastic piece the slides when you put the car in gear. 1x application will keep it squeek free for at least 120K miles.

-mike

mustangfiveo · May 2001

I believe the 93 trooper was rated as the most reliable suv for that year followed by Landcruiser and 4runner. I have a 94 with 128K on the odo and I tow a traver trailer. The vehicle has been extremely reliable. I am in a market for another SUV for towing and hauling purposes, and unfortunately we are outgrowing our trooper, with our current needs, we are close to buying a Toyota Sequoia. We do intend to keep the trooper for our daily use. Good luck, I'm sure you will put another 100K miles on the vehicle without problem.

paisan · May 2001

Can you wait til next spring? The Next trooper will be V8, 3 rows of seats and is due out as MY03 on sale next spring.

-mike

erinsquared · May 2001

paisan · May 2001

No official word, and I won't expect any for quite some time.

-mike

chzbrg · May 2001

Is the engine in the 2000 Trooper built by Isuzu or General Motors???

paisan · May 2001

The engine in the Troopers and all Isuzu vehicles is built by Isuzu not GM. The transmissions are GM transmissions, same transmission in all the current Isuzus are the same as the AT in the BMW Z3 Roadster and the Cadillac Catera, as well as the Holden Commodore.

-mike

http://isuzu-suvs.com

flin · May 2001

Picked up my new 01 2WD Limited tonight at an Atlanta area dealer. Price was $25,640 + 300 doc fee + ttl. This was a cash deal, not with the 0%. If anyone wants to know the dealer/salesman, shoot me some e-mail.

Noticed a couple of things already - the front logo was oxidizing, so they are going to replace the front grill. On the way home, I noticed that the temperature gauge was accurate as I was moving, but the temp started to climb by 10 degrees with the vehicle at-rest. Anyone know anything about these?

sleepwalk@mindspring.com

paisan · May 2001

Yep that's typical of the Ltd. It's sensor is mounted right in front of the radiator so when you ren't moving, it will get hotter than it should.

Strange, since the front is not chrome, it's plastic painted, not sure how it could oxidize?

-mike

flin · May 2001

saw this on another ltd as well - looked like it was oxidizing, but not sure what it is. In any case, at least it's a simple part to replace.

Is there a fix for the temp gauge thing, or do I just live with it?

paisan · May 2001

you should be able to re-locate the sensor to the behind the bumper area. If you do start this project, try to document it as best you can and I'll put it in the "how-to" area of http://isuzu-suvs.com

-mike

mustangfiveo · May 2001

Paisan,

To be honest with you, I think the best vehicles coming from Isuzu is at their last legs (current model of trooper). GM has too much input on their product line now. I believe the next Trooper will be based on the new Envoy (look at all the defects on the envoy). I am also dissapointed that Isuzu did not offer a bigger trooper sooner. Instead they concentrated on building cars we do not want (Axiom, Vehicross). In my opinion, these are the ugliest vehicles on the road, along with the Pontiac Aztec. My next car will definitely be the new Toyota Sequoia.

paisan · May 2001

WILL NOT BE A GM CLONE. I have verified it will be made in Japan at the plant that cranks out troopers currently. The next version of the Rodeo will likely be an envoy clone, but not the Trooper. Don't forget the Trooper is not exclusively sold in the US, it is a world vehicle, sold widely throughout Asia and Australia. The new trooper will be here next spring. The reason they haven't done anything with it is that the Trooper is not one of their core vehicles in the US market, and the current one is selling fine in their other markets IIRC.

The Vehicross is a specialty vehicle, only 1500/yr of them and they are hand assembled. The Axiom IMHO if they can get people to look at them will crush the Highlander, Tribute/Escape and just about anything else in the mid-small SUV class. Let's be honest here the market for SUVs is NOT THE OFF-ROAD community, it's mainstream soccor moms, and families who need ZERO off-road capabilities, but like the high seating position and the image that an SUV provides. Take a look at the Jeep fiasco, do you think the DC would have stopped making the cherokee if they didn't have good hard evidence that the new liberty with it's IFS and plush interior would earn them more profits?

-mike

PS: If you can afford the nearly $50K Sequioa it is a great truck, alternately, you could buy 2 Troopers for that $

cwmoser · May 2001

I like the Trooper the way it is. I've seen the Toyota Sequioa on the road and it is a really great looking truck. I had thought I would like to consider the Sequioa but if it costs $50K - forget it.

I agree with you Mike in that people buy SUV's for the image they portray along with the high seating and cargo capability. And like you mentioned, I hardly ever use my Troopers 4WD capability and definitely will not take off road in situations where I could damage it. I think Isuzu could get a significant sales boost by using the "Jackeroo" name here in the USA. Ever since the Olympics and Survivor's Outback, Australia's image in the consumers mind keeps getting brighter. BTW, can one purchase Jackeroo emblems for Troopers??

keepontroopin · May 2001

I asked this a few days ago and no one replied so i thought I would try it again. Does anyone know if the 6 disc cd changer from a 2001 Trooper is compatible with the stock head unit in a 2000 Trooper?

Please let me know!!!

Also it sounds like the Pine Barrens was a good time. Let me know if anyone ever goes offroading in Central PA. I would be in for a day or weekend trip. NC is just too far to go for me! We have a camp in central PA in ELK county. There is some pretty good offroading there and maybe this summer I will try to set something up.

paisan · May 2001

The Jackaroo name wouldn't be a bad idea, although I think their marketing strategy @ Isuzu is pretty messed up. A few guys over on the 4x4wire were trying to get some jackaroo badges for their trucks w/o much success. Check out some Isuzus off-road this past weekend at http://isuzu-suvs.com/subaru/pinebarrens.html and http://isuzu-suvs.com

-mike

kocher30 · May 2001

I have a 1999 Trooper and I want/need to purchase new tires. Has anybody tried to install 265/70/16 instead of the 245/70/16? Can it be done and do the tires rub. I am looking for a little lift and a softer ride. Any ideas will be helpful.

paisan · May 2001

There is no problem with 265/70s. I think you are good up to like 285/75s w/o rubbing.

-mike

conman2000 · May 2001

As far as I know the CD changer is the same for all models 98+ but might have different fronts. to go http://www.copartfinder.com and look for a wrecked Isuzu near you and buy a used one. Good Luck.

Regards,

Conway

mustangfiveo · May 2001

I notice several of you mentioned the price of Sequoia to be at $50K, that is WAY OFF. The price that I am looking at with Sunroof and 4X4, and several options turned out to be a little over $37K MSRP. At this time, some dealers are marking off around $2K from MSRP. A comparably equipped trooper will probably cost $30K (per Carsdirect.com). As for the 2003 model, it may add additional $3K to have a V8. So for 2003 you are looking at a $33K trooper compare to a $35K Sequoia. One big thing to remember is that a resale value of a trooper is WAY LESS than a Sequoia. I don't know why because it is just as reliable, but that's just the way the market work. The market will dictate the price. Taking all this into consideration, in my opinion, the Sequoia is a better deal.

P.S. No I'm not buying the Sequoia as a status symbol. Reliability is the most important factor in my decision. I still love my trooper and I will not trade it in for any vehicle.

Max

paisan · May 2001

Every single Sequioa I've looked at has been near $50K msrp, with dealers coming down to about $45-47K on them. Troopers are stickerd around $32K and selling for $25-$27K. I'll go re-check the #s. The Sequioa is a nice truck, don't get me wrong, and the Toyota reliability is there, but it's really too much of a Tundra with a cap styling IMHO. If I ever upgrade from a Trooper it'll be to a TLC which IMHO is just an Awsome truck (albeit expensive MSRP $57K)

-mike

mustangfiveo · May 2001

As a matter of fact, I have two dealers as we speak offering $36K for my options. I don't know what #s you are looking at but you are VERY WRONG. Also, you mentioned that people buying a $50K and over vehicles are buying it for status symbol. Well, looks like you are one of them. Land cruisers are smaller with similar a similar V8. At this time, the Sequoia with its size and capability is best suits us. If you are willing to spend $20K more for a vehicle it is your choice. Anyway, have fun with your troopers, as I am having fun with mine.

cd1000 · May 2001

The Toyota Sequoia's I have seen MSRP'D between $42,000 and $47,000 with the lesser model being offered at $38,000. Even with the selling price being $4000 off MSRP you can buy a Trooper with similar equipment for $10,000 less. Toyota's are great but they nickel and dime you with the options. I will take the $10,000--10 yr 120k warranty and not look back. my .02 cents. Chris

drew_ · May 2001

FYI, Edmunds TMV for the Toyota Sequoia SR5 4WD is only US$35,078. The TMV for the almost fully loaded Limited 4WD version is a hair under US$43K.

Drew
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sbcooke · May 2001

The TLC has proven reliability, is made in Japan. The Sequoia is made in USA and is brand new. I would prefer American made, but in the first few vehicle years it is hard to say the Sequioa is better and the TLC is a status symbol. The Land Cruiser is a world class vehicle that comes without all the glitz in other countries for travel across world terrain. Similar things can be said about the Trooper, it is manufactured in Japan and sold world wide as an off-road/work truck. I like the Sequioa, but as yet the TLC is still my top pick, not for status.

paisan · May 2001

Size isn't everything in the SUV game or else we'd all be driving the Excursion

Just went over to Carpoint...

$29,129 for the Trooper Limited
$41,620 for the Sequoia SR5 w/options to meet Trooper Limited

Those are Edmunds TMV values for the 2 trucks.

So I stand corrected on the price of the Sequoia SR5, here in NYC I guess the only ones they have on the lots are the Limiteds since I haven't seen a price less than $46-$47K on em.

-mike

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

"One big thing to remember is that a resale value of a trooper is WAY LESS than a Sequoia. I don't know why because it is just as reliable, but that's just the way the market work."

Which might be a great reason to pick up a USED TROOPER!

;-)

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

You live in NYC? That means New York City, right?

What do you do with a Trooper there (besides look for parking spots)?

paisan · May 2001

Well, I do a lot of computer consulting, which involves toting around 17" monitors, so I use it for that. I have a house up in the adirondacks with a 17' boat that I tow. I was in the Pine Barrens last weekend http://isuzu-suvs.com/subaru/pinebarrens.html I go to the Outterbanks of NC to my buddy's house. I never have a problem finding a spot in Manhattan when I go there, and I park it on my driveway in Staten Island usually. Before this I had a '97 Rodoe, and before that an '83 Dodge Ramcharger.

-mike

PS: Why am I justifying it to you?

stever · May 2001

It's just that no one really believes that good guys like you actually live in NYC :-)

Steve
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sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

just wondering, that's all.

;-) for the humor impaired

(P.S. I do my share of moving monitors with the '92 Civic hatchback)

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

No ill intent in my asking. I just thought it odd, that's all. I know several people from NYC who don't have ANY car.

paisan · May 2001

That's why I added the

on the bottom

I also briefly had an Escort hatch in there and a '74 olds and a '85 Lebaron hatch GTS. Loved the turbo on the lebaron, the handling of the escort and the size and engine in the Olds. But all 3 suffered from american car fall apart syndrome so i've moved over to the foreign car market. I also have an '88 Subaru XT6 AWD that I drive to the train and for local, and non-suv duties. Picking up an '88 Mazda MX6 this week or next to be used nearly exclusively for Auto-xing.

Too many hobbies (cars, off-roading, boating) that require $

-mike

keepontroopin · May 2001

Hey sus-qu-a-tash or sasquatch or whatever.....I think all Paisan is trying to say is he loves his vehicle. He is just trying to point out that the Trooper is a solid vehicle and a great bargain. You won't understand how we all feel about our Troopers until you shell out the few bucks it takes to buy one in comparison to what you may buy.

I am not busting on the Sequoia, but I personally am not attracted to them. I am currently on my third Trooper and will probably be buying them for the rest of my life. if you have any thoughts what so ever of possibly getting one I will promise you that you won't regret the buy!

gpm5 · May 2001

I'm not sure the sequoia is much bigger than the trooper--maybe a little wider, but it does have a 3rd row seat but only with 27" of legroom and no cargo space behind it. In terms of space the trooper has 38-39" of leg room front and rear and with a 3rd seat would also have 27" of legroom for the 3rd row--and again no cargo space. The problem with this is that around town you need the cargo space so the seat is folded or removed. On a trip with people on board you'll need to load the roof.

On the new trooper my hope is that they provide two varieties, one at about 15" longer and another extended version about 30" longer. The 15" one would provide 3rd seat legroom and the extended one would provide 3rd seat legroom and cargo space. The extended one would be used by families on road trips. The non-extended trooper would be used by those doing offroading etc. that don't need the extra space or weight.

henrysko · May 2001

i'm sure this has come up before but I've tried to find better shocks for my '00 limited 4wd. so far, i've struck out with bilstein's and rancho: "not available" i'm told. did find tokico's but i'd appreciate some advice from this group. this is my 2nd troop (traded my '96 last Aug.)and it's the best-except for those shocks. thnx.

Isuzu Trooper

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