Isuzu D-Max 2011 Problems

This really does sound a bit like a head gasket problem. Even though the coolant and oil aren’t mixing (as you might expect with a blown head gasket) if the gasket blows between the coolant passages and the combustion chamber, the pressure of the engine’s combustion (particularly when the turbocharger is boosting when, say, climbing a long hill) can pressurise the cooling system, leading to the sorts of problems you’re having, including ejecting the coolant all over the place.

But until you’ve done a couple of simple checks, there’s no way of knowing whether there’s a blockage or other problem with the cooling system that is allowing the engine to become too hot. At that point, the coolant will also force its way out of the engine with a similar set of symptoms. A chemical check (called a TK test) will be able to identify whether combustion gasses are finding their way into the coolant, suggesting a head gasket failure., A good mechanic should also be able to tell if there’s a blockage in the coolant system or a problem with the coolant pump.

Have you tried the spare key? If not perhaps try it and see if that one works. If it does it could be a problem with the key/battery. You could also have it checked by a dealer or an auto electrician.

Fading is not unusual with the paint used on cars today, but to see fading in just three years would suggest something is wrong. If you want to take it further you should get an independent opinion from a paint expert, and if that opinion is that there is something wrong with the paint you could then take it to Isuzu and ask for the affected areas to be repainted. One expert who consults in cases like yours is Graeme Cuthbert, and he can be reached on 0422 444 335.

Coolant should be changed regularly, annually at least, but the interval should be shown in your service book. It can look a little oily, but that's not a problem, and as your vehicle is running well with no sign of a problem I wouldn't be concerned, but do change the coolant.