2000 Honda Passport: What Buyers and Owners Need to Know

The 2000 Honda Passport sits in an interesting place in automotive history — a mid-size SUV that was neither fully Honda nor fully Isuzu, but a collaboration between the two automakers that produced something genuinely useful for its era. If you're researching one for purchase, or you already own one and want to understand it better, here's a clear-eyed look at what this vehicle is and how it behaves as an older SUV in today's used market.

What Is the 2000 Honda Passport?

The Honda Passport was produced from 1994 through 2002, and the 2000 model year sits in the second generation of that run (1998–2002). It was badge-engineered from the Isuzu Rodeo — meaning Honda and Isuzu shared the same platform, chassis, and most mechanical components, with Honda branding applied for sale through Honda dealerships.

This matters for research and ownership because parts, service information, and repair forums for the Isuzu Rodeo often apply directly to the 2000 Passport. Mechanics familiar with one are generally familiar with the other.

Engine and Drivetrain Specs

The 2000 Passport came with one engine option:

The part-time 4WD system is a traditional setup — it's designed for off-road or low-traction use and should not be engaged on dry pavement, as it lacks a center differential. This is a meaningful distinction from all-wheel-drive systems found in many crossovers today, which can remain engaged on all surfaces.

Trim Levels

The 2000 Passport was offered in two trims:

• LX — base trim with standard features
• EX — upper trim adding leather seating, a sunroof, and upgraded audio

The EX trim is more commonly found in used listings today, partly because it was the more popular choice when new and partly because its additional features have made it worth preserving longer.

What to Know About Buying a 2000 Passport Today 🔍

A 2000 Honda Passport is now over two decades old. That changes how you evaluate it compared to a newer used vehicle.

Age-related concerns that apply broadly to this vehicle:

• Rust — Frame and underbody corrosion is a serious concern on any vehicle this old, particularly those from northern states where road salt is used heavily. Inspection under the vehicle is essential.
• Timing belt — The 3.2L V6 uses a timing belt, not a chain. Replacement is typically recommended around every 60,000–90,000 miles. On a vehicle this age, you should verify when it was last replaced — or budget for it immediately.
• Cooling system components — Hoses, the radiator, and the water pump degrade over time regardless of mileage. On a 24-year-old vehicle, these are high-priority inspection items.
• Transmission service history — The automatic transmission in this generation has known sensitivity to fluid maintenance. A vehicle with unknown or neglected fluid history carries higher risk of transmission wear.

Known Issues With the Second-Generation Passport

Owners and mechanics have documented several recurring concerns with the 1998–2002 Passport/Rodeo platform:

• Automatic transmission reliability — The 4-speed automatic is a weak point in this generation, particularly when maintenance has lapsed. Slipping or delayed engagement are warning signs.
• Fuel pump and sending unit — Failures are not uncommon at this age and mileage range.
• 4WD actuator issues — The shift-on-the-fly 4WD system can develop problems with the front axle actuator, which engages the front wheels. Symptoms include difficulty engaging or disengaging 4WD.
• Oil leaks — Valve cover gaskets and rear main seals are common sources on high-mileage examples.

None of these issues make the vehicle unacceptable, but each adds to the pre-purchase inspection checklist and potential ownership costs.

Fuel Economy

The 2000 Passport with the 3.2L V6 was not a fuel-efficient vehicle by any era's standards. Expect figures in the range of 15–18 MPG combined, depending on drivetrain, driving conditions, and vehicle condition. These figures vary based on how well the engine and fuel system have been maintained.

What a Pre-Purchase Inspection Should Cover 🔧

For any vehicle this age, a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by an independent mechanic is particularly valuable. For the 2000 Passport specifically, ask that it include:

• Frame and underbody rust assessment
• Timing belt condition and history
• Transmission fluid condition and behavior during a test drive
• 4WD engagement and disengagement
• Cooling system integrity
• Evidence of accident repair or structural damage

Recalls and TSBs

Honda issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for various Passport model years covering items like transmission shift quality, engine idle issues, and other refinement concerns. TSBs are not recalls — they're service guidance for mechanics, not required repairs. Actual recall work, if performed, should be noted in service history.

You can check open recalls by entering the vehicle's 17-digit VIN at NHTSA.gov, which is free and takes under a minute.

Registration, Insurance, and Title Considerations

A 2000 Honda Passport may qualify as a classic or antique vehicle in some states, depending on local age thresholds — often 20 or 25 years. That classification can affect registration fees, inspection requirements, and insurance options. Some states offer specialty plates and reduced fees for older vehicles; others treat them identically to any used car.

Insurance rates on a vehicle this age vary significantly based on its stated value, your driving history, your state, and how you plan to use it. A daily driver, occasional-use vehicle, and off-road recreation vehicle may all be rated differently.

What the 2000 Passport is worth, what it costs to insure and maintain, and whether its known issues are manageable in your situation depend entirely on the specific vehicle's condition and history, your location, and how you intend to use it — variables no general guide can evaluate for you.