The 1998 Honda Passport: A Compact SUV Built on a Truck Frame

The 1998 Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle that Honda built by rebadging the Isuzu Rodeo. It sits on a body-on-frame construction, meaning the steel frame and body are separate — the same approach used in pickup trucks. This design gives it genuine off-road capability and a higher ground clearance than car-based SUVs, but also a rougher ride on highways and lower fuel economy than unibody competitors.

In 1998, the Passport was in its second generation, which ran from 1997 to 2002. That year's model came standard with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 205 horsepower, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle seated five passengers and offered both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options.

Key Takeaways

  • The 1998 Passport uses a body-on-frame truck platform, which provides off-road strength but results in lower fuel economy and a firmer ride than car-based SUVs.
  • The standard engine is a 3.2-liter V6 with 205 horsepower, available with manual or automatic transmission and two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
  • Common maintenance issues on this model year include transmission problems in the automatic version and rust in the frame and undercarriage, especially in salt-belt states.
  • Insurance and repair costs tend to be moderate because the Passport shares many components with the Isuzu Rodeo, making parts widely available.
  • Fuel economy ranges from 16 to 20 miles per gallon depending on drivetrain and driving conditions, which is typical for truck-based SUVs of that era.

Engine and Transmission Options

The 1998 Passport came with one engine choice: a 3.2-liter V6 that produced 205 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. This engine was borrowed directly from Isuzu and was known for reliability when properly maintained. It was paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.

The manual transmission was generally more durable and preferred by off-road enthusiasts because it offered better control in low-traction situations. The automatic transmission, while smoother for highway driving, developed problems in some vehicles — notably delayed shifts, slipping, and eventual failure. If you are considering a used 1998 Passport with an automatic, have a transmission specialist inspect it before purchase.

Fuel economy for the 1998 Passport ranged from 16 to 20 miles per gallon depending on whether you had two-wheel or four-wheel drive and your driving mix. Four-wheel drive models consumed slightly more fuel due to the added weight and drivetrain friction. Highway driving yielded better mileage than city driving, as is typical for larger vehicles.

Two-Wheel Drive Versus Four-Wheel Drive

The 1998 Passport offered both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. Two-wheel drive models were lighter, cheaper, and more fuel-efficient, making them better suited for buyers who primarily drove on paved roads. Four-wheel drive models added an extra transfer case, locking differentials, and a low-range gear for serious off-road work.

The four-wheel drive system was part-time, meaning you could switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive while driving. This allowed you to save fuel on highways by running in two-wheel mode, then engage four-wheel drive when you needed traction. The system included a locking center differential on some trim levels, which improved traction in mud, sand, and rocky terrain by forcing both front and rear axles to turn at the same speed.

If you live in an area with winter snow or plan to drive on unpaved roads, four-wheel drive is worth the extra cost and fuel penalty. If you drive mostly on highways and paved city streets, two-wheel drive is sufficient and will save you money at the pump.

Common Mechanical Problems and Maintenance Concerns

The 1998 Passport is generally reliable, but certain issues appear frequently enough that you should know about them. The automatic transmission is the most common failure point — some vehicles developed slipping, delayed engagement, or complete failure by 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Manual transmissions were more robust. If you are buying a used model with an automatic, request the transmission service history and have it inspected by a specialist.

Frame and undercarriage rust is a significant concern, especially if the vehicle was driven in states that use road salt during winter. The body-on-frame design means rust can weaken the structural integrity over time. Before purchase, have the frame inspected from underneath, particularly around the rear axle and suspension mounting points. Surface rust is cosmetic; deep pitting or holes indicate serious corrosion.

The cooling system can develop leaks, and the water pump sometimes fails around 80,000 to 120,000 miles. The V6 engine itself is durable, but spark plugs should be changed every 30,000 miles and the timing belt every 105,000 miles — this is a major service that costs $500 to $800 at an independent shop. Regular oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles will extend engine life significantly.

Interior Features and Comfort

The 1998 Passport interior was functional but basic by modern standards. The cabin seated five passengers across two rows, with the front bench or bucket seats and a rear bench. Air conditioning was standard on most trim levels, and power windows and locks were common on higher trims. The dashboard featured a straightforward instrument cluster and a radio — CD players were optional on some models.

Storage space was generous thanks to the truck-based design. The cargo area behind the rear seats offered 76 cubic feet of space, and the rear seats folded flat to create a larger cargo bed. Towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers or boat hauling. The truck frame also meant the cabin sat higher than car-based SUVs, giving drivers a commanding view of the road.

Comfort on long drives was adequate but not luxurious. The body-on-frame suspension transmitted more road noise and vibration than unibody SUVs, and the ride was noticeably firmer. This trade-off is the price of the vehicle's off-road capability — the stiffer suspension keeps the frame rigid when driving over rough terrain.

Safety Features and Crash Test History

The 1998 Passport came with dual front airbags as standard, along with three-point seat belts and a reinforced steel frame. Anti-lock brakes were available on higher trim levels. By modern standards, these safety features are minimal — there were no side airbags, no electronic stability control, and no backup camera.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted crash tests on the 1998 Passport. The vehicle received a four-star rating in frontal crash tests but only three stars in side-impact tests, which was below average for its class even at that time. The body-on-frame design provided good protection in frontal collisions but offered less side-impact protection than unibody competitors.

If you are purchasing a 1998 Passport for regular family use, understand that it lacks the safety technology of vehicles built in the last 15 years. Electronic stability control, which prevents skidding in emergency maneuvers, was not standard on any 1998 model. Modern vehicles also have more airbags and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.

Fuel Economy and Operating Costs

Real-world fuel economy for the 1998 Passport ranged from 16 miles per gallon in city driving to 20 miles per gallon on the highway, with four-wheel drive models performing slightly worse. At current fuel prices, this translates to roughly $12 to $15 per gallon of fuel consumed, or about $0.60 to $0.75 per mile driven. Over a year of 12,000 miles, fuel costs alone run $7,200 to $9,000.

Insurance costs for a 1998 Passport are moderate because the vehicle is common enough that insurers have solid claims data, and repair parts are inexpensive due to the Isuzu Rodeo connection. Expect to pay $80 to $150 per month for liability and collision coverage, depending on your age, driving record, and location. Older vehicles typically cost less to insure than newer ones.

Maintenance costs are reasonable if you perform regular service. Oil changes run $30 to $60 at an independent shop. Brake pads cost $150 to $300 per axle. The major expense is the timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles, which runs $500 to $800. Budget $1,000 to $1,500 per year for routine maintenance and repairs on a vehicle with 100,000+ miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 1998 Passport good for towing?

Yes, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is suitable for small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight boat trailers. The V6 engine has enough torque for moderate towing, but you should use a weight-distribution hitch and may support your trailer brakes are in good working order. Do not exceed the rated capacity, as the truck frame and suspension are designed with this limit in mind.

Can I use a 1998 Passport for serious off-roading?

Yes, the body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive with locking differentials make it capable for moderate off-road use — dirt roads, light trails, and rocky terrain. It is not designed for extreme rock crawling or deep water fording. The approach and departure angles are reasonable for a vehicle of its size, and the ground clearance is adequate for most recreational off-road driving.

What is the difference between the Passport and the Isuzu Rodeo?

The 1998 Passport and Isuzu Rodeo are mechanically identical — Honda straightforward rebadged the Rodeo with different exterior trim and interior styling. They share the same engine, transmission, frame, and suspension. Parts are interchangeable, so repair costs and parts availability are the same. The choice between them comes down to styling preference and which brand's dealership network is more convenient to you.

How many miles can a 1998 Passport last?

With regular maintenance, the 1998 Passport can reach 200,000 miles or more. The V6 engine is durable, and the truck frame does not rust away quickly if the vehicle is kept in a dry climate or regularly undercoated. The automatic transmission is the weak point — many fail between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Manual transmission models tend to last longer overall.

What should I check before buying a used 1998 Passport?

Have a mechanic inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust, test the transmission for smooth shifting and engagement, check the cooling system for leaks, and verify that the timing belt has been replaced if the vehicle has over 105,000 miles. Request service records to confirm regular maintenance. Test the four-wheel drive system if equipped, and listen for unusual engine noise or knocking.