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Used 1997 Isuzu Rodeo Consumer Reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
56 reviews
1...

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 Rodeo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Rodeo since its last redesign.

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Pros
Cons
3.88 out of 5 stars

Very good, reliable truck

Mikhail, 04/01/2009
1997 Isuzu Rodeo S 4dr SUV
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

I've owned this truck for about 7 years and had no major issues of any kind. Just general maintenance, brakes, etc. Please do not save money on oil and this car may run for up to 200000 miles. Mine has approx 140000 miles, my friend has Trooper with over 200000 miles and it is still going strong. Use Castrol synthetic blend 5w/30 for your high mileage Isuzu truck.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

There is no place it can't go.

me1234, 10/06/2003
1997 Isuzu Rodeo S V6 4dr SUV 4WD
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Boxed ladder frame, skid plates, limited-slip Dana 44 rear differential. I assumed it to be a perfect off-road capable truck. I was correct! I have been to many Off-Road trails in Utah and Colorado without a breakdown. Recently took it up Wheelers Lake in Colorado. The included skid plates did come in handy. And, unlike some of me wheeling friends, I drove to/on/from the trail in the Rodeo. Great daily driver too, only minus is the fuel economy in the city. Ground clearance could be better but that can be fixed with the many lift-kits available. A few of my firends with Jeeps have traded up to Rodeos. I couldn't be happier with this truck.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great truck

kdbanks, 04/28/2009
1997 Isuzu Rodeo LS 4dr SUV
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

I've had this Rodeo for going on 9 years, and have not had a single mechanical problem. It drives great, the engine is perfect (mechanics comment on it all the time), and is fun to drive. Not the best gas mileage, but it is an SUV. Highly recommend!

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5 out of 5 stars

Under rated workhorse

michael, 02/05/2014
updated 02/06/2017
1997 Isuzu Rodeo S V6 4dr SUV 4WD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

I purchased this gem in 2000 with only 14k on the odometer. I currently have 172k on it now. I have used it for traveling across country with my family, camping trips and of course, done some serious off-roading. I have only had minor repairs I have made to the truck, brakes, hoses, belts, timing belt and tensioner, alternator and battery, mostly wear items. This has been , by far, the most durable and reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Fantastic truck!

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

'97 Rodeo S 4WD

BC, 05/15/2006
1997 Isuzu Rodeo S V6 4dr SUV 4WD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I bought this SUV new and have had very little to complain about. Besides replacing a battery, new tires @ 85k and an alternator I have had to do only oil changes and one tune up (spark plugs essentially). The gas mileage runs consistently at 19 mpg combined. Actually pulled a 4-Runner out of the snow when he couldn't get traction in 4WD. I've owned 2 Pathfinders and neither measured up. Great torque! Especially when put into low. This SUV will crawl out of incredible locations. Inconvenience of cup holder, who cares. I wish every car I ever bought was this reliable. But then I'd have bought fewer cars. If you need a 4WD, this one rocks! Screen the one you buy, any vehicle can be abused.

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