IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Isuzu D-Max (Mk2)

A substantial facelift brought a downsized 1.9-litre RZ4E turbodiesel meeting Euro 6 standards without AdBlue, new six-speed transmissions, refreshed front-end styling, and an updated dashboard.

What changed for 2017

  • •All-new 1.9-litre RZ4E turbodiesel engine producing 164PS, achieving Euro 6 compliance without AdBlue
  • •New six-speed manual and six-speed automatic gearboxes replacing previous five-speed transmissions
  • •Sharpened front styling with redesigned grille, LED daytime running lights, and restyled tailgate
  • •Front-end weight reduction of approximately 60kg, improving steering response and payload

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !DPF efficiency warnings and exhaust emissions failures on vehicles subjected to repeated short urban journeys
  • !Uneven tyre wear and front wheel alignment drift caused by heavily laden towing and pothole impacts
  • !Worn front brake discs and binding brake calipers on vehicles frequently operated in quarry or farm mud
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Turbocharger Failure (2.5L)

SeriousEngine

The smaller of the two turbos on the 2.5L engine can suffer from bearing failure, often due to carbon-clogged oil feeds.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Whining/whistling noise, Blue smoke, Sudden loss of power

What to Inspect:
  • Evidence of 6,000-8,000 mile oil changes is better than the official long-life intervals
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

DPF Regeneration Issues

ModerateEngine

The DPF system on both the 2.5 and 1.9 can fail to clear during short journeys, leading to oil dilution.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,500
Warning Signs:

DPF warning light, Rising oil level on the dipstick, Reduced fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Check the oil level; if it's significantly above the "full" mark, the oil is likely diluted with fuel
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Chassis Surface Rust

MinorSuspension & Chassis

Factory undersealing was sparse. While not usually terminal on this generation yet, surface rust is very common.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600 (Cleaning & Sealing)
Warning Signs:

Visible orange oxidation on chassis rails and suspension components

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear section of the chassis where mud accumulates
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Isuzu D-Max (Mk2)

  • Check the engine oil dipstick level; repeated aborted DPF regenerations can dilute engine oil with fuel
  • Confirm the engine pulls cleanly across the rev band; the 1.9 requires more revs than the older 2.5 unit
  • Inspect underbody protection plates and sill seams for off-road scraping, dents, or hidden mud traps