Isuzu has recalled 1998-2000 Amigos and 2001-2002 Rodeo Sport vehicles originally sold in states other than Colorado but which could now be in Colorado. After all, people do relocate from time to time. The defects include excessive corrosion in the forward mounting point bracket for the left or right rear suspension lower link, according to a recall notice on NHTSA’s website.
The defect may result in the left or right rear suspension becoming detached from the frame, which not only can adversely affect vehicle handling but more seriously cause a crash. Incredibly, the recall notice states that for vehicles in which little or no corrosion is found, the area will be treated with an anti-corrosive compound. Small comfort there.
For what the dealers will decide is more extensive corrosion, a reinforcement bracket will be installed. According to the recall notice: “In the rare event the corrosion is so severe that the reinforcement bracket remedy would not be appropriate, Isuzu will offer to repurchase the vehicle for an amount based on the Kelley blue book ‘private party’ price.”
The obvious question is: won’t the corrosion continue such that eventually the risk of a serious crash will become intolerable? Customers take note that “Isuzu will offer a free remedy, but only if the vehicle is presented to an Isuzu service facility dealer within 12 months of when owner notifications were issued.” What about continuing corrosion? Isuzu owners may contact the manufacturer at 1-800-255-6727, but don’t expect a satisfactory answer to the issue of the progression of corrosion.
