The Isuzu MU-X is a seven-seat SUV based on the more successful D-Max pickup truck. And, like with any other vehicle on the road, it is essential to maintain and care for your 4 x 4 to get the most out of it.
Maintaining a routine maintenance plan may assist in avoiding expensive problems to the cooling system, gearbox, drivetrain, and other components. Preventive vehicle upkeep minimises engine and component wear and tear, therefore extending the life of your vehicle.
Keep to the Service Schedule
Regular service is essential for retaining peak performance and extending the life of your Isuzu MU-X.
Service intervals for Isuzu MU-Xs dated 19 MY or later are 12 months, every 15,000 kilometres. Earlier MU-X models require more routine maintenance, with services every 12 months at 10,000 kilometres. A three-month at 3000-kilometre service is necessary for all models.
Consult your owner’s manual to determine when your car is due for service and what kind of repair is needed. A minor service comprises replacing the oil and filter and refilling other fluids as needed.
A substantial service may also include the replacement of the air filter and cambelt and mileage.
A basic service will involve inspections for oil and fluid leaks, tyre pressures and conditions, severe exhaust emissions, brake deterioration, steering, transmission, clutch, suspensions, and smaller issues like your lights, wipers, and horn are all working correctly.
EGR Valve Issues
Problems with the Isuzu three-litre turbo diesel engine’s Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system may occur. An EGR valve enables the Isuzu engine to eat a part of its own exhaust gas to reduce tailpipe emissions by burning it twice.
Additionally, the EGR valve is responsible for ensuring that crankcase gases are consumed in the engine and do not escape into the atmosphere, which is where the ducks of doom begin to line up.
These exhaust gases include soot, and when they mix in the EGR valve with the oily vapours from the crankcase, the oil and soot form black, sticky gunge that may clog the EGR valve and coat the input manifold, limiting its effective diameter.
If left uncontrolled, the layers of greasy soot quickly accumulate and clog the EGR valve. The vehicle’s pollution controls are not functioning correctly, and it is thus technically unroadworthy.
When the check engine light illuminates, you will likely need to repair the component that has gotten stuck. Have the EGR examined for this problem during standard maintenance to avoid the issue from escalating.
Heated Automatic Transmission
The D-Max or MU-Xs has an issue where the vehicle’s five-speed automatic transmission can grow hotter while towing or off-roading. This is often when the engine is at its most powerful, and the torque converter provides for some slippage to maintain the engine in its performance range in each gear.
Because the torque converter slip is a significant source of heat, it usually goes to the factory trans cooler in the radiator’s bottom tank. That makes the coolant in the radiator get hotter, making the engine run extremely hot. The best thing to do is examine the colour and smell of the transmission fluid. If it’s dark and smells burned, the transmission fluid requires replacing.
Worn Or Creaky CV Joints
This seems to be a systemic problem with Isuzu that is readily remedied. As is the case with many other off-road vehicles equipped with independent front suspension, the Isuzus might suffer from minimal front CV joint life.
The wear and strain associated with large wheel movement, large tyres, and road debris may contaminate the joint, quickly wearing it out.
The best course of action is to replace these items as you would any other service item, and you will never have to worry about them again.
When turning your MU-X or any other vehicle on full lock, worn CV joints create quite a racket. When the cracking noise occurs, this is often a symptom of deteriorated joints.
Maintain excellent condition of the rubber boots; even the tiniest nick or crack in the rubber may wear out the CV within. Have them examined at each service, particularly if your Isuzu MU-X is often used for off-roading.
The Bottom Line
The Isuzu MU-X is a rugged and trustworthy ute, making it a great off-road companion. However, like with any vehicle, you should watch out for specific issues and take the necessary measures to maintain your four-wheel drive in top condition.
Keep an eye out for the systematic issues that MU-X and Dmax utes have, and address them as soon as possible to prevent expensive repairs in the future.