The 1998 Honda Passport: Basic Facts and What Made It Different

The 1998 Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle that Honda sold in North America during the late 1990s and early 2000s. It was built on the same platform as the Isuzu Rodeo, which means many of its mechanical parts came from Isuzu rather than being designed by Honda from the ground up. The 1998 model year sits in the middle of the Passport's production run, which lasted from 1994 to 2002.

If you own a 1998 Passport or are thinking about buying one, understanding its basic specifications and common issues will help you make decisions about maintenance, repair, and whether it fits your needs. The 1998 model is now over 25 years old, so its condition depends heavily on how it was maintained and how many miles it has traveled.

Key Takeaways

  • The 1998 Passport came with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 205 horsepower and could be ordered with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
  • Common mechanical problems in this generation include transmission issues, rust on the frame and undercarriage, and wear on the cooling system components.
  • Parts availability is mixed: engine and transmission parts are easier to find because they came from Isuzu, but body panels and trim pieces specific to Honda are harder to locate.
  • Insurance and registration costs depend on your state and the vehicle's condition, but older SUVs of this size typically cost more to insure than sedans.

Engine, Transmission, and Fuel Economy

The 1998 Passport used a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produced 205 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The V6 was shared with Isuzu vehicles, which means repair shops familiar with Isuzu trucks can often work on it, and many replacement parts are available through Isuzu suppliers as well as Honda dealers.

Fuel economy for the 1998 Passport was approximately 16 to 18 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving, depending on whether you had two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Four-wheel-drive models consumed slightly more fuel. This was typical for SUVs of that era, though it is considerably lower than modern vehicles in the same class.

The transmission in these vehicles has a reputation for developing problems as they age. Some owners report slipping, delayed engagement, or rough shifting, particularly if the transmission fluid was not changed regularly. Having the transmission fluid and filter serviced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles can extend the transmission's life, but replacement transmissions for 1998 Passports are expensive and may be hard to find.

Rust, Frame Condition, and Undercarriage Concerns

One of the most significant issues affecting 1998 Passports today is rust and corrosion, especially in the frame, suspension components, and undercarriage. This is particularly true for vehicles that were driven in areas with road salt during winter months or that were not regularly undercoated or washed underneath. Rust can weaken the frame and make repairs unsafe or impossible.

Before buying a used 1998 Passport, have a mechanic inspect the frame and undercarriage with the vehicle on a lift. Look for orange or brown discoloration, pitting, or areas where metal has flaked away. Surface rust can be managed, but deep rust that has eaten through metal or compromised structural welds is a serious problem that may make the vehicle unsafe to drive.

The body panels and exterior trim can also rust, particularly around the windows, door seams, and where different materials meet. Some owners have had success treating surface rust with rust converters and repainting, but extensive body rust repair can be costly and may not be worth the expense on a vehicle this old.

Cooling System and Engine Overheating

The cooling system in 1998 Passports is known to develop leaks and failures as the vehicle ages. The radiator, water pump, thermostat, and hoses can all fail, and when they do, the engine can overheat quickly. Overheating can cause serious engine damage, including warping the cylinder head or cracking the engine block, so this is not a problem to ignore.

If you own a 1998 Passport, have the cooling system inspected regularly. Check the coolant level when the engine is cold, look for leaks under the vehicle, and listen for the cooling fan running when the engine is warm. If the temperature gauge climbs into the red zone, pull over when ready and let the engine cool before driving further. Replacing the radiator, water pump, or thermostat on a 1998 Passport typically costs between $300 and $800 in labor and parts, depending on which component fails and your location.

Two-Wheel Drive Versus Four-Wheel Drive Models

The 1998 Passport was sold in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. Two-wheel-drive models are lighter, use less fuel, and are simpler mechanically, making them cheaper to maintain. Four-wheel-drive models offer better traction in snow, mud, and off-road conditions, but they are heavier, consume more fuel, and have additional components like transfer cases and front differentials that can fail.

If you live in an area with heavy snow or plan to drive on unpaved roads regularly, four-wheel drive may be worth the extra cost and maintenance. If you drive primarily on paved roads in mild climates, a two-wheel-drive model will be cheaper to own and operate. Both versions use the same engine and transmission, so the choice comes down to your driving needs and budget.

Finding Parts and Repair Services

Parts availability for the 1998 Passport is a mixed situation. Engine and transmission components are relatively straightforward to find because they were shared with Isuzu Rodeos, and Isuzu parts suppliers still stock many items. Suspension parts, brake components, and filters are available through major auto parts retailers and online suppliers.

However, body panels, trim pieces, interior components, and other parts unique to the Passport are harder to locate. Some are no longer manufactured, and you may need to search salvage yards or online marketplaces for used parts. This can make cosmetic repairs or interior restoration more time-consuming and expensive than it would be for a more common vehicle.

Finding a repair shop willing to work on a 1998 Passport can also be challenging. Many newer shops focus on current model years and may not have the experience or tools to diagnose and repair older vehicles. Independent mechanics and shops that specialize in older or imported vehicles are often your best option. Ask for recommendations from local car clubs or online forums dedicated to Honda or Isuzu vehicles.

Insurance, Registration, and Ownership Costs

Insurance costs for a 1998 Passport depend on your age, driving history, location, and the specific coverage you choose. Because the Passport is an older SUV, insurance companies may charge more than they would for a sedan of the same age, but less than they would for a newer SUV. Contact several insurance companies for quotes before buying to understand what you will pay.

Registration and title costs vary by state. Some states charge based on the vehicle's age and weight, while others use the estimated value. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency to learn what registration will cost in your area. Older vehicles sometimes may have access to for reduced registration fees or special vintage vehicle plates, depending on your state's rules.

Beyond insurance and registration, budget for regular maintenance: oil changes, fluid top-ups, filter replacements, and tire rotations. Because the 1998 Passport is now old, you should also expect occasional repairs for worn components. Setting aside $100 to $200 per month for maintenance and unexpected repairs is a reasonable estimate for a vehicle in average condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many miles can a 1998 Passport engine last?

The 3.2-liter V6 engine in the 1998 Passport can run well past 200,000 miles if it is maintained properly, with regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and attention to the cooling system. Many owners report engines lasting 150,000 to 250,000 miles before major problems develop. Neglected engines may fail much sooner.

Is the 1998 Passport good for towing?

The 1998 Passport can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the proper hitch and wiring, though this varies slightly between two-wheel and four-wheel-drive models. Check your owner's manual or the door jamb sticker for your specific vehicle's towing capacity. Towing puts extra stress on the transmission and cooling system, so make sure both are in good condition before towing regularly.

What is the difference between a Honda Passport and an Isuzu Rodeo?

The Honda Passport and Isuzu Rodeo share the same platform and most mechanical components, but the Passport has different exterior styling, interior trim, and badging. They are mechanically very similar, so parts and repair knowledge often transfer between the two vehicles. The main difference is appearance and the brand name on the badge.

Can I still get parts for a 1998 Passport, or is it too old?

Many parts are still available through online retailers, salvage yards, and specialty shops, particularly mechanical components shared with Isuzu. However, some body panels and interior trim pieces are no longer manufactured and must be found used. Plan on spending extra time and money sourcing parts compared to a newer vehicle.

Should I buy a 1998 Passport as a first vehicle?

A 1998 Passport can be a reliable first vehicle if it has been well maintained and inspected by a mechanic before purchase. However, older SUVs are more expensive to insure and fuel than smaller cars, and repair costs can be unpredictable. Consider your budget for insurance, fuel, and maintenance before committing to this vehicle.