For many Australians, particularly those over 60 who have embraced the freedom and adventure that retirement can bring, a reliable ute or 4WD is more than just a vehicle—it's a ticket to explore our country's vast and beautiful landscapes.

However, a recent safety recall has raised concerns for thousands of vehicle owners across Australia.


Isuzu, a brand known for its rugged and durable vehicles, has issued an urgent safety recall affecting approximately 150,000 vehicles nationwide.

This recall is significant because of the number of vehicles involved and the potential risks associated with the identified issues.


The first recall notice targets 149,049 D-Max and MU-X vehicles manufactured between 2020 and 2024.

The concern stems from a software glitch in the engine control module that may incorrectly reduce engine speed, causing the engine to stall.

As highlighted in government documents, the consequences of a vehicle losing power while in motion are severe, with an increased risk of a serious accident or even death.

An Isuzu Australia spokesperson has addressed the issue, stating:

‘Isuzu Motors Limited have identified a rare condition-based scenario relating to the engine control module (ECM) software controlling the fuel pump, which may result in a decrease in engine output or rpm across several 21MY-onwards D-MAX and MU-X models fitted with the 3.0-litre 4JJ3-TCX engine.’

‘While a very small number of cases have been reported, as a proactive precaution, 149,048 vehicles have been flagged for the ECM software update.’

‘Affected owners will be contacted in writing by IUA to have their vehicle inspected at their local Isuzu UTE Dealer, where the engine control module software will be updated, free of charge.’


The second recall notice is equally concerning, affecting 36,966 D-Max utes built between 2020 and 2023.

Some vehicles may have an incorrectly installed fuel delivery hose, which could wear out prematurely and cause a fuel leak.

The risk here is a vehicle fire, which could endanger the occupants' lives and cause significant property damage.

Isuzu will contact the owners of the affected vehicles directly in writing and urge them to have their vehicles inspected at their local Isuzu UTE Dealer.


The necessary updates and replacements, including the engine control module software and the fuel delivery hose, will be carried out for free.

The Isuzu D-Max ute and MU-X 4WD have both enjoyed popularity in Australia.

So far this year, sales of the D-Max have increased by about 15 per cent and the MU-X by more than 37 per cent.

Their reputation for reliability and capability has made them favourites among off-road enthusiasts and practical-minded drivers.


In similar news, Honda has recalled over 50,000 vehicles in Australia due to a fuel pump defect that could raise the risk of accidents, serious injury, or death.

This recall affected nine Honda models from 2017 to 2020 and is a re-notification of an issue first discovered in July 2020. Learn more about it here.
Have you been affected by this recall, or do you have any concerns about vehicle safety? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.