Overview of the Holden Rodeo
The Rodeo appeared in the early 1980s, badged a Holden but essentially an Isuzu model from Japan. It went on to become a serious rival for the likes of the Toyota HiLux in Australia, and there was much to appreciate about the third-generation (RA) model released in 2003 and further improved in 2007. Just a year later in 2008, Holden was forced to lose the power of the Rodeo nameplate when it had to rebrand its workhorse ute Colorado after the ending of ties between its parent company General Motors and Isuzu.
HOLDEN RODEO GENERATIONS (SINCE 1988)
1988-2003
2003-2008
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption (2007)
3.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 8.1-8.5 litres per 100km
2.4L 4-cylinder petrol: 12.0 litres per 100km
3.6L 6-cylinder petrol: 12.4-13.7 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
An annual service for the Rodeo currently costs $299. Holden Rodeo parts and equipment can be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO HOLDEN RODEO
Ford Ranger
Toyota HiLux
Mitsubishi Triton
Nissan Navara
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: HOLDEN RODEO
The V6 petrol engine was far from perfect in the Rodeo with some reports of higher-than-acceptable oil consumption. If the engine ran too low on oil, the rings and bearings would both suffer, requiring a major engine rebuild.
The later Alloytec version of the V6 was also prone to stretched timing chains. In extreme cases, the chain could snap, potentially destroying the engine. Early signs are a check-engine light as the stretch in the chain allows the valve timing to wander. Even if the chain remains intact, a stretched chain will require replacement.
As with any commercial vehicle, the chances of buying an ex-fleet car are higher than they are with a sedan. So check any Rodeo for signs of hard use and adjust the asking price accordingly.
Four-wheel-drive variants also need a close check underneath, for damage and signs that they've been abused off-road.
