I'm selling my truck, and i found a 1992 Rodeo with a v6, 4wd for $2500 w/ 130k miles. Is their anything I need to look for that would warn me away from this buy. I've heard that they have had some top end problems and that if their is any lifter noise that i need to stay away from it. Can anyone confirm this and tell me if their is anything else i need to look out for??

 

I would not suggest buying a Rodeo. I bought mine brand new in '99 and once the warranty was up i've had nothing but problems. I have not even 90,000 miles and my car does not start in the morning (i have yet to figure out whats wrong with that) i have had to replace the battery twice, had to replace a coil pack & spark plugs, burn's oil, and all the other regular maintenance all adds up. I would look into either a Jeep (known to last), a new truck, Honda CRV, Toyota Highlander ...but my personal preferance is the jeep. you can't go wrong with a jeep if you are looking for a SUV [img]smileys/smiley2.gif[/img]

 

p.s. i have a '99 rodeo LS v6 4wd

 

Well the '94 up rodeos have a completely different engine and electrical system, so don't base your decision on that. I myself have a 1992 rodeo 4x4 and it performs great. I am a mechanic by the way.


On the rodeo, there are a few areas prone to rust including the cowling in front of the windshield, and the roof and the pillars around the rear glass hatch. If this is kept up it is no problem. I repaired mine and it hasn't rusted since... I do live in a humid climate though. Also make sure there are no cracks or rusted through spots in the framebecause rodeos have a box style frame which tends to hold moisture.The great thing about the 1991-92 rodeos is that they are easy to work on, especially if you have a V6. They have a GM engine with TBI fuel injection. The drivetrain is pretty stout also. Rodeo's are good SUVs. Just keep an eye out for rust on older models.

 

I dont know much about 1st gen rodeos (pre '98) but I love my '99. The only problems I've had with it are just normal wear items and a couple things cause by lack of maintenance by previous owners. I wouldnt hesitate to buy another one.

You might want to PM Ramblin Fever on the Automotive Forums site. He used to have a '91 and now has a '97. He should be able to tell you what to look for on those.