Used cars at an affordable price, could be costly.. and dangerous

(WXYZ) - Internet postings show many older Isuzu Rodeos and similar older Honda Passports were found to have serious frame rust, if they were driven in northern states.

Some are now showing up in used car lots in southern states as well.

Ed Hood, a used car shopper was looking for an affordable car for his college bound daughter.

“Oh that thing still runs like a top,” says Hood of a used 2000 Isuzu Rodeo he found for sale. “The drive in it runs great.”

The car had low miles, no visible rust and a reliable engine. However, behind a layer of undercoating was a major problem.

"The whole thing is rusted right through,” Hood says of the suspension brace which snapped off while his daughter was driving it.

Hood’s mechanic says the SUV, which cost $4,000 is not able to be prepared.       

"The car's a total loss,” says Hood. “There is nothing left underneath to weld to underneath there."

Hood contacted Isuzu, but was told the car’s warranty was up and there wasn’t much they could do.     

Matarese and the consumer reporters contacted an Isuzu spokesman in North America who says the automaker issued a voluntary recall. The recall, which has now ended, was for suspension braces in 1998 through 2001.

However, they say they are willing to look more into Hood’s case.