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Re: Should I buy a 2004 Rodeo?
If you can get the 3.5L Rodeo with the Aisan Werner transmission (Auto) - DO IT! That's a fine truck with a reputable tough tranny.
However, sounds like you need to locate an IMPORT mechanic who knows how to work on Isuzu's, though I can't remember all of the issues you have with your '95. I can tell you though, if you can find someone to fix that '95 right, that's still got a lot of life left at only 100k.
I don't know why the 99-'02's transmission marks are black, as those years have the same transmission my '91 & current '97 Rodeo's do - and as long as you maintain their fluid, and don't beat them to death, they'll last a long time. Had over 150k on my '91 Rodeo, and currently have 163k on this Rodeo, both automatics that've had a rough, towing 4x4 life and have never skipped a beat.
The 99-02's engines were the cause of a couple issues, the '98'-99's were known for cracking in cylinder #1 (IIRC) defect from the factory, I presume. And the '00-'02's were oil burners, again another defect.
But the '03-'04's are good trucks, the only concern I would have is whether or not you have a dealership that would provide warranty. In Colorado, there's only two Isuzu dealerships left, and neither one are close.
I also just purchased an '04 Tacoma that I believe has the same engine/transmission as an '04 Runner - and I can tell you I LOVE it, it's a fine truck in power, quality, etc. But, then I also have to say, if Isuzu had still been producing their small ISUZU trucks - like the kind in the late 80's -early 90's - I'd have bought one of those without a 2nd guess.
We almost bought one, some 16yrs ago, when we bought our '85 Toyota p/up, but the guy we were going to buy it from, changed his mind and we couldn't pass the deal on that Toyota.
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