General Axiom Questions

[Joe Isuzu]

On a related note, there's a current thread talking about this list where the VX does well,
http://www.carreview.com/SUV/PLS_1524_913crx.aspx
the axiom, on the other hand, seems to be inundated (sp?) with tranny issues, it appears most of the complainers are 02 models which is a year I'm not interested in, did they have to do a recall of '02 transmissions for the axiom, was this a problem endemic to the model in general?
I'm not looking to get a deal and pay low bucks for a cool looking and fast Isuzu only to be spending big bucks later for tranny work, any input?
thanks!!

[Joe_Black]

IIRC the non-direct injection models had the same engine and tranny (4L30E) as the VX with the exception of throttle-by-wire, so essentially the same boatload of issues using a tranny at the edge of it's performance envelope.

[Joe Isuzu]

thanks for responding Joe Black, no offense, but your answer is not very reassuring, thankfully I'm no stop-light racer and I don't plan on towing much of anything so hopefully there'd be little to any strain on the tranny, it's disappointing that this might be an expected source of big bills though and from the looks of the comments by the Axiom owners, it seems to happen much earlier than it should imo

[Joe_Black]

I've had a few 4L30E's now and haven't had any issues, especially with the current 140K mile unit in our IronMan. And we do tow quite a bit with it, up to 7500lbs for short hauls too (Caterpillar 22). The transmission is likely quite up to task for normal driving habits with occassional towing and off-roading, and where it runs into problems is when folk start pushing it's limits with bigger tires and lifts or constant towing/off-roading. Few laymen understand that mechanical loads often increase in an exponential fashion which leads to early and sometimes catastrophic failures.

Fortunately with the Axiom you have an option that not only increases power and economy, but does so with a very capable transmission and a transfer case that comes equipped with an electronic 2WD mode. Keep looking, you'll find a good '04!

[Joe Isuzu]

ok, feel mucho better now, thanks again Joe Black
I'm definitely not into lifts or serious off-roading so it sounds like for the easy-life way I handle cars, it should do well

[innercore]

I have just purchased a 2003 AXi in June 08 and another one in July 08 via out of state dealerships. Price was right and I drove the first one back over 2000 mile road-trip through highway and tight mountain roads and it performed way above expectations.

Just an fyi, I also have 2000 VX and a 2000 Trooper too. My brother has my old 93 Trooper. My other brother has two VX's. My nephew has one VX. My other other brother has a 2001 Trooper.

[Joe Isuzu]

congratulations innercore, sounds like you are a definite isuzu enthusiast
Personally, if I were to get one, it would only be an '04 due to DI engine, can't beat it, more power AND better gas mileage!

[innercore]

Hi Joe,

The second one I purchased was a 2004 Silver with 17500 orginal miles. The first one I purchased was Green 2003 with 18000 orginal miles. Both were purchased for under 11000 and from dealerships. Both are under warranty. I like them allot and the price was great. I hope Isuzu keeps the parts line open and the Isuzu Service open too. They are for my kids. The VX is for me. The Trooper for the wife. All I have ever had to maintain was regular/normal service and check the oil...especially during long trips. Isuzu makes a good product...just make sure you bring them in to get proper/recommended service.