Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, hybrid and EV propulsion).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1999 Isuzu Rodeo owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
I recently was involved in an accident that I could not avoid. 2 weeks prior to the accident I received a recall in the mail for my ABS module and brake system. Although my ABS light was already on I assumed the recall was why. I took it in, they supposedly fixed it. I guess I was wrong. I drove up and told the gentleman that my ABS light was still on, and I asked why he said that that wasn't part of the recall. My question is how can it not be part of the recall when it's part of the module. So I left it and decided to take it back when I can get the money to cover my co-pay. The I get in the accident, keep in mind that they just fixed my ABS system and brakes. It had rained and I tried to stop to keep from hitting someone. It didn't work, I've had vehicles with ABS before, so I know what they are suppose to do, and that didn't happen. I just slid and I mean slid into this guy. …
Tl* the contact owns a 1999 Isuzu Rodeo. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being driven at various speeds, a strong fuel odor was present without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the fuel tank corroded and the rear driver side of the vehicle was corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 198,000.
Slowly but surely, the fuel gauge stopped working. The defect is in the fuel sending unit and that part is not available for purchase. I had to replace the entire fuel pump. The problem, and somewhat of a safety concern is, you never know how much gas you have. I did run out of gas twice before having it replaced. Once going up a hill... On a major road... What an experience. The other was also on a busy road. Watching the speedometer never really seems to work. Since this problem seems to occur on the majority of Rodeo's during those years, I think it should be recalled (check msn auto, or just search Isuzu Rodeo reliability on google and you'll find hundreds of site with the same complaint). Even my mechanic said he sees this problem all of the time. …
I have just purchased a 1999 Isuzu Rodeo for my college aged daughter. While driving back to school yesterday (290 mile drive), she discovered that this vehicle also has a fuel gauge that is not working properly. While this is not an immediate safety issue, the thought that my duaghter May become stranded (by running out of fuel) in a remote area, is a very real safety concern as far as I am concerned. In doing some research this morning, I have discovered that this seems to be an ongoing issue with Isuzu Rodeo's that is a known problem with the 1998 to 2000 year vehicles. This appears to be a classic case for a recall by the ntsb. Without your involvement, I am sure that Isuzu will not respond. Your prompt attention to this matter would be appreciated. Thanks!
At about 55,000 miles the gas gauge stopped functioning properly and accurately. It is completely unreliable, and I have to reset the trip meter each time I fill the vehicle up with gas. I thought it was just a fluke until my wife heard a work colleague on the telephone with Isuzu complaining about the same issue with her Rodeo as well (different model year). Now I see in reviewing this website, that this is more than a coincidence. In addition, the check engine light is constantly on and off on the vehicle. I believe that this is due to the issue with the gas gage as well. According to my mechanic, it costs about $500 to repair this pr problem as the labor involved is quite extensive.
The gasoline quantity indicator displays a lower fuel level than the actual amount in the tank. It also intermittently drops to empty and the "low fuel" warning lamp illuminates. Our 1999 Isuzu Rodeo has just over 44,000 miles and is in "mint condition". Though this is not a safety concern, it does raise questions about product reliability and quality. There are numerous complaints on this website to indicate an investigation of this part is necessary, especially since the part alone lists for over $250, add in labor and the cost can easily exceed $500. This part should function quite a bit longer than four years since, on most vehicles, this parts last the entire life of the vehicle.
1999 izusu Rodeo with multiple problems: ie: ABS brake light won't go out. Have had vehicle serviced however when coming to a stop, vehicle slides. Gas gauge light won't go out...tank is full...repair price-crazy. High idle-foot on brake and vehicle lunges forward. While driving, vehicle picks up speed quickly. Windshield wipers erratic-sometimes they work, sometimes they don't and sometimes they just stop right in the middle of the window. All of these are safety issues. I'm finding that some owners fell under a recall to fix these items but I don't. I don't understand that. Do I have to kill or be killed first especially with the breaking issues? Updated 10/23/07
The gas gauge on my 99 Rodeo is defective. I have 66,000 miles and the problem just began within the past couple of weeks. It constantly moves up and down, even after filling the tank. The gas warning light comes on and eventually starts to blink. I called my local dealer and was told it would cost between $400 and $500 to repair and that eventually this would trigger the check engine light. When the check engine light comes on, it will cost even more to repair. I was also told to make sure I refuel after 150 miles to ensure that the car does not break down. Based on the number of consumer complaints, this is obviously a common problem and needs to be addressed.
Problems with the gas gauge reading incorrectly, gas light comes on and gauge shows empty when there is over a half a tank of gas. May fill up and the next day the gas tank show only a 1/4 tank will fluctuate when driving. Sometimes has trouble with rough start. Spoke with customer representative was told there were only 9 complaints listed under just fuel system however when I look up odi numbers I get at least 20 complaints talking about the same problem listed under fuel system under different sub-categories. Each complaint has the same year and model car which doesn't seem to be a coincidence. The fuel sending unit is not a cheap repair.
I have a 1999 Isuzu Rodeo 2.2l 4 cylinder model truck, and the fuel sending unit, 02 sensors and coolant temperature sensor have all gone bad. I have had to replace other sensors as well. Spent hundreds of dollars trying to fix this truck. Please let Isuzu know that they need to be responsible for their actions, and fix these lemon vehicles. I am a college student and need this vehicle to get from school and back, and I'm not sure how many more fixes I will be able to afford. There are plenty more consumers on forums across the internet complaining of these vehicles, and are generally the same exact problems. Why hasn't anything been done?
Fuel System complaints in other Rodeo years
Frequently asked questions
How common are fuel system problems on the 1999 Isuzu Rodeo?
NHTSA has 91 complaints about the fuel & propulsion system of the 1999 Isuzu Rodeo, 17% of the model year's 550 complaints. The component named most often is storage › fuel gauge system (54 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1999 Isuzu Rodeo fuel system problems?
No. NHTSA lists no fuel & propulsion system recall for the 1999 Isuzu Rodeo, though it has 3 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1999 Isuzu Rodeo fuel system problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 63,000 miles, and 3% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 2 crashes, 0 fires and 0 injuries to fuel & propulsion system problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.