IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2021 Isuzu D-Max (Mk3)

The 2021 Mk3 D-Max represented a complete overhaul of Isuzu's pickup, arriving in UK showrooms in March. It featured an entirely new exterior design, a radically improved interior with soft-touch materials, and a comprehensive ADAS safety suite standard across the range — making it the first pickup to achieve a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. The 1.9-litre diesel engine remained but was now Euro 6d compliant with AdBlue injection.

What changed for 2021

  • •All-new exterior and interior design
  • •First pickup to achieve 5-star Euro NCAP rating
  • •ADAS standard across all models including AEB, lane assist and traffic sign recognition
  • •Euro 6d compliant 1.9-litre diesel with AdBlue
  • •Faster-engaging shift-on-the-fly 4WD system

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !ADAS sensors can trigger false warnings in heavy rain or mud
  • !Check AdBlue system for any warning lights
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

DPF and AdBlue System Sensitivity

ModerateEngine

While improved over earlier models, the Euro 6d engine still requires consistent long runs to avoid AdBlue sensor errors and DPF blockages.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£1,200
Warning Signs:

AdBlue warning lights, DPF regeneration requests, Limp mode

What to Inspect:
  • Ask about the previous owner's driving habits (motorway vs town)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front CV Joint Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front CV joints and boots can wear prematurely, especially on vehicles used off-road or with larger tyres. Dust and water ingress accelerates wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

Clicking noise when turning, Vibration under acceleration, Torn CV boots

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect CV boots for tears or leaks
  • Listen for clicking during tight turns
  • Check front driveshafts for play
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Over-sensitive ADAS Sensors

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The cameras and radar sensors can trigger false warnings or "system unavailable" messages in typical UK weather (heavy rain/spray).

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Software/Calibration)
Warning Signs:

Random beeping, Lane assist tugging the wheel, Emergency brake warnings

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive on a variety of roads to check sensor behavior
  • Ensure the windscreen is clean and undamaged near the camera
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2021 Isuzu D-Max (Mk3)

  • ✓The Mk3 is a vast improvement over the Mk2 in refinement and safety
  • ✓DL40 and V-Cross models offer the best equipment levels for the money