The 1998 Honda Passport can be reasonably reliable for its era if it has been well maintained, but as a 25+-year-old SUV it carries aging wear and parts-supply challenges that can affect everyday reliability.
On the surface, reliability hinges on the Passport’s place in Honda’s lineup as a badge-engineered Isuzu Rodeo. The vehicle shares mechanicals with Isuzu models, so maintenance history, parts availability, and common service issues can differ from typical Honda sedans. This article looks at ownership experiences, typical failure points, and practical ways to keep a Passport on the road today.
Background and engineering footprint
The 1998 Passport is a mid-size SUV produced in the late 1990s as Honda’s entry in a competitive SUV segment. It uses Isuzu-sourced underpinnings and offers two powertrain options, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. Its reliability profile reflects a blend of Honda’s reputation for durable basics and the age-related issues common to late-1990s SUVs built on Isuzu platforms.
Reliability hinges on several components. The following list highlights the most important areas to evaluate when considering a 1998 Passport.
- Powertrain and engine condition
- Transmission and drivetrain (including four-wheel drive and transfer case)
- Frame and body rust, especially around wheel arches and underbody
- Electrical systems and cooling system integrity
- Suspension, steering components, and braking hardware
A well-preserved example is typically more reliable, and a thorough service history matters as much as the odometer reading when judging reliability in a product this age.
Common issues reported by owners
On owner forums and used-car histories, several issues recur across many Passport/Rodeo models from this era. These patterns are informative but not universal; individual results depend on maintenance and climate exposure.
- Transmission behavior including shifts and, in some cases, slipping or rough engagement
- Cooling system wear such as radiator leaks or hose failures
- Rust and corrosion in the frame, undercarriage, and wheel wells
- Electrical gremlins, including ABS sensor faults and dashboard warning lights
- Worn suspension bushings and aging steering components causing clunking or vague handling
As with most aging SUVs, the key reliability takeaway is that the condition of these systems often tracks maintenance quality and previous ownership care more than the model’s original reputation.
Maintenance tips to maximize reliability
To extend life and reduce surprises, owners should follow disciplined maintenance practices and address wear promptly. The following list summarizes practical steps for a 1998 Passport.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for fluids and inspections, and keep detailed service records
- Prioritize transmission and transfer-case service; monitor fluid condition and levels
- Keep the cooling system in good order—hoses, radiator, thermostat, and coolant changes
- Regularly inspect for rust and treat vulnerable areas; consider protective undercoating if appropriate
- Replace worn suspension and braking components early to avoid escalating damage
- Use quality replacement parts and work with shops experienced with Isuzu/Honda variants
Following these practices won’t turn back the clock, but it significantly improves the odds of a reliable daily driver from this era.
Should you buy one today?
For buyers considering a 1998 Passport in today’s market, the decision hinges on a willingness to manage an aging vehicle and on finding a well-documented example. Look for a solid body with minimal rust, a clean service history, a well-maintained transmission, and evidence of regular cooling-system upkeep. Be prepared for repair costs that can be higher than those for modern compact SUVs, given the model’s age and parts-sourcing realities. If budget and maintenance capacity allow, a Passport with meticulous maintenance can still serve as a capable daily driver on light-duty use.
Evaluation checklist for a potential purchase:
- Request full maintenance and repair records, especially for the transmission, cooling system, and rust treatment
- Test drive to assess transmission smoothness, 4WD engagement, and braking performance
- Inspect for frame rust, underbody corrosion, and door/hinge wear
- Check electrical system functionality, including lighting, gauges, and climate control
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a technician familiar with Honda-Isuzu collaborations
In practice, a careful buyer who prioritizes maintenance history and current condition can find a 1998 Passport that remains practical for errands, light trips, and family use, but it is not guaranteed to be problem-free and ownership costs will reflect its age.
Summary
The 1998 Honda Passport offers a reasonable reliability baseline for its time, particularly when well cared for. Its Isuzu-based underpinnings mean maintenance history and parts availability play a significant role in its current reliability. Prospective buyers should arm themselves with complete service records, a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and realistic expectations about potential repairs. With diligent maintenance, a Passport from this era can still serve as a dependable, practical SUV, though owners should budget for typical aging issues that come with any 1990s vehicle.