The 2008 Isuzu I-370 is a rugged midsize SUV that relies on a robust 3.7-liter, five-cylinder engine code [E] E to deliver power and capability. While this engine is known for its durability, keeping it running at peak performance requires the right lubricants. Using standard store-bought fluids often falls short in protecting critical components against the heat, friction, and contaminants that this vehicle encounters during towing, hauling, or daily driving. To ensure longevity and reliability, selecting synthetic lubricants formulated for specific vehicle requirements is essential. Proper maintenance extends the service intervals and minimizes wear, ensuring that your drive remains smooth and efficient for thousands of miles.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unsurpassed engine protection with guaranteed service intervals up to 25,000 miles or one year, featuring 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended protection for up to 20,000 miles with superior cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective option that fights sludge and deposits, delivering OEM-level protection with zero LSPI events.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns, reducing engine wear and offering extended service life to match the synthetic oil.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters for superior contaminant capture.
- WIX Oil Filter – A reliable choice with premium media that exceeds OEM standards for filter performance.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed formulation that protects all cooling system metals and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant that greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides essential wear protection for automatic transmissions like the 4L60-E found in this vehicle.
- WIX Transmission Filter – Ensures clean fluid flow through the transmission with premium media that improves upon OEM filtration.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Offers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 Manual Synchromesh Transmission Fluid – Ideal for manual transmissions and transfer cases, reducing friction and improving cold weather shifting.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against wear and controls thermal runaway in front and rear differentials.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Another high-performance option for differentials that resists rust and helps reduce operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A versatile gear lube containing friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction, keeps seals soft to prevent leaks, and offers strong anti-wear protection for quiet operation.
Maintaining the 2008 Isuzu I-370 requires attention to the specific capacities and types of fluids that keep the powertrain and systems functioning correctly. The engine bay houses a 3.7-liter five-cylinder engine that demands precise oil levels. The total capacity for an oil change, including the AMSOIL Oil Filter, is 6.0 quarts. When servicing the engine, it is critical to observe the torque specification of 19 ft/lbs for the oil drain plug to prevent damage or leaks. After refilling, owners should verify the oil level using the dipstick to ensure the correct amount is present.
Beyond the engine, the cooling system plays a vital role in managing the thermal load of the vehicle. The 2008 I-370 holds 10.6 quarts of AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant. Choosing between a ready-to-use formulation or a concentrated propylene glycol antifreeze depends on your maintenance preferences. The pre-mixed Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant offers protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years, while the concentrated Propylene Glycol variant requires mixing with water but offers extended life up to 1,000,000 miles in heavy-duty applications. Both options are phosphate-, nitrite-, and silicate-free, ensuring compatibility with all cooling system metals and hoses.
The transmission system also benefits from high-quality synthetic lubricants. The automatic transmission, specifically the 4-speed 4L60-E, has a total fill capacity of 11.2 quarts and requires an initial fill of 5 quarts. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid helps the transmission withstand the stresses of heavy towing and challenging terrain. For those with manual transmission components or transfer cases, the AMSOIL 5W-30 Manual Synchromesh Transmission Fluid is formulated to reduce friction and improve cold weather shifting. It is ideal for General Motors and other vehicle specifications, ensuring smooth power delivery.
Differential and transfer case lubrication is equally important for off-road capability and towing. The transfer case, often an Isuzu T150, requires 2.7 pints of fluid, with specific torque values of 29 ft/lbs for the fill and drain plugs. The front differential holds 3.2 pints, while the rear differential capacity varies between 3.4 and 3.8 pints (1.6L-1.8L). For these high-pressure areas, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® synthetic gear lubes provide the necessary protection against wear and rust. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 and AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 variants are excellent choices for GL-5 applications, containing friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials to prevent binding and chatter during sharp turns.
Brake and steering systems round out the essential maintenance needs. The hydraulic AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid should be DOT 3 compatible, and the synthetic DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems. It maintains stable viscosity across extreme temperatures, which is crucial for safety. For the power steering system, the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks while offering strong anti-wear properties and excellent high-temperature performance. Regular maintenance of these fluids prevents premature wear of pumps, valves, and calipers.
About the Vehicle: The 2008 Isuzu I-370
The 2008 Isuzu I-370 represents a unique blend of utility and car-like handling in the midsize SUV segment. Built on a truck-based platform, it shares its underpinnings with the Isuzu Rodeo, a vehicle known for its rugged capabilities. The 3.7-liter inline-five engine was designed to offer a balance of power and efficiency that was relatively uncommon for vehicles of this class during the mid-2000s. With a reputation for reliability, the I-370 was a popular choice for families needing a versatile vehicle for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.
Ownership of the I-370 often appeals to those who value durability without the harsh ride quality of a full-size truck. The independent front suspension and rear leaf-spring setup provide a comfortable ride on pavement while retaining the ability to handle rougher terrain when necessary. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering generous cargo space and seating for up to seven passengers in later models. Its market position allowed it to compete effectively against established rivals, offering a distinct option for buyers seeking a Japanese-engineered vehicle with robust 4×4 capabilities. Whether used for light hauling or as a primary family vehicle, the I-370 relies heavily on proper lubrication to maintain the smooth operation of its mechanical components over many years of service.
While the I-370 does not feature a turbocharger, the engine still generates significant heat under load, making high-performance AMSOIL Signature Series Motor Oil a valuable investment. The synthetic formulations discussed earlier help manage this heat better than conventional oils, reducing the risk of oil breakdown and ensuring that the oil maintains its protective properties throughout extended service intervals. By following the recommended fluid specifications and utilizing high-quality WIX Oil Filters, owners can maximize the lifespan of their vehicle. The combination of AMSOIL Signature Series motor oil, high-efficiency filters, and specialized AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid creates a comprehensive maintenance program that addresses the specific needs of the 2008 Isuzu I-370.
Seasonal maintenance is another area where quality products make a difference. For vehicle owners who store their SUVs during periods of inactivity, using AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing the varnish and gum buildup that often plagues older equipment. Additionally, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides a protective layer of corrosion inhibitor over internal engine components, ensuring that the engine starts easily when the vehicle comes back into service. These small preventative measures protect against the slow deterioration that can occur during storage.
Ultimately, the goal for any I-370 owner is to keep the vehicle running smoothly and efficiently for as long as possible. By adhering to the recommended fluid capacities, torque specifications, and product types, you ensure that every component, from the piston rings to the differential gears, operates within optimal parameters. This approach not only enhances performance but also helps maintain the vehicle’s resale value and reliability. Regular fluid changes using the right synthetic lubricants are the most effective way to protect your investment and ensure that your 2008 Isuzu I-370 continues to perform well for years to come.