Overview of the Isuzu Dmax
The 2002 Isuzu D-Max was a global model rebadged as a Holden Rodeo in Australia before Isuzu Ute Australia established the D-Max as its own model locally in 2008. A second-generation model was released in 2012 - and closely related to the Holden Colorado as part of continuing links between Isuzu and Holden parent company General Motors. The D-Max differed from the Colorado not just in styling, though, but also with its own turbo diesel engine.
ISUZU D-MAX GENERATIONS
2008-2012
2012 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
3.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 7.2 to 8.1 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
Every 15,000km or 12 months, whichever is sooner. Each service currently costs from $340. Isuzu D-Max parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO ISUZU D-MAX
Ford Ranger
Holden Colorado
Nissan Navara
Toyota HiLux
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: ISUZU D-MAX (2012 ON)
A squeak from underneath the vehicle can be a car that hasn't been updated with a replacement rear shock absorber bush.
A poor design saw the bushes wear quickly, leading to the noise. An Isuzu dealer will be able to check a particular car to see if the revised bushes are fitted.
The common-rail turbo-diesel seems pretty robust, but like any engine using this new technology there are things to be aware of.
Injectors don't like dirty or tainted fuel, and they're easily damaged by poor quality fuel. An engine with an uneven idle, poor power or that is difficult to start can be a sign of this damage having already occurred.
Injector replacement is the ultimate fix, but they can be anything up to $1000 apiece once they're fitted and the filters replaced.
