The 1998 Honda Passport is a midsize, body-on-frame SUV built during Honda’s partnership with Isuzu, offering true truck-like capability with available 4WD. It’s a practical choice for drivers who need simple towing and light off-road ability, or shoppers looking for a budget-friendly, old-school SUV with a spacious cabin and easy-to-find parts. In the late 1990s market, it competed with SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota 4Runner, leaning more toward rugged utility than car-like refinement. The 1998 model sits in the first-generation Passport run, known for solid mechanicals but also a set of well-known age- and mileage-related issues.

1) 3.2L V6 power: Most 1998 Passports use a 3.2-liter V6 (Isuzu-sourced) that delivers strong low-end torque for daily driving, highway merging, and hauling gear. 2) Available 4WD with low range: Many models were equipped with a part-time 4WD system that’s well-suited for snow, mud, and trails, plus a low-range setting for slow-speed traction situations. 3) Truck-based construction: A body-on-frame design and durable suspension components make it a good fit for rough roads and utility use, though it rides firmer than modern crossovers. 4) Practical interior packaging: The Passport offers a roomy seating position, good cargo space, and a simple, functional layout that’s easy to live with and inexpensive to keep up cosmetically. 5) Towing and utility focus: With proper equipment and maintenance, the Passport can serve well for small trailers, weekend projects, and outdoor adventures where ground clearance matters.

Shoppers searching “1998 Honda Passport reliability” should know it can be dependable when maintained, but there are several “1998 Honda Passport problems” that show up repeatedly with age and mileage. 1) Automatic transmission wear and shifting issues: Some owners report harsh shifts, delayed engagement, slipping, or early failure—often showing up around 120,000–180,000 miles depending on fluid service and use. Old fluid, overheating, or neglected maintenance can accelerate problems. 2) Oil leaks and consumption: Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan seepage, and front/rear main seal leaks are common on higher-mile examples (often 100,000+ miles). Some engines also develop oil consumption, especially if oil changes were stretched or PCV maintenance was ignored. 3) Cooling system problems and overheating: Radiators can clog with age, hoses become soft or brittle, and thermostats may stick. Overheating complaints tend to appear after 120,000 miles, and continued overheating can risk head gasket issues on any older SUV. 4) Rust and corrosion: In salt-belt states, frame and underbody rust is a major “1998 Honda Passport common issue,” particularly around suspension mounting points, brake lines, and body mounts. Rust can become a safety and inspection problem even if the powertrain is strong.