2016 Isuzu MU-X Pricing and Specs

The car could be trying to trying to tell you that there’s something wrong with the key. So start with the basics. The most common cause for the key to not operate the ignition and security system (which is why the engine won’t start) is because the key’s battery has gone flat. Change it and see if that works. At the very least, try the second key (that should have come with the car) to see if it will operate things properly.

If not, then you have to start digging deeper, at which point the cause could be a glitch within the car’s body computer which is the brain that controls everything from the power windows to the central locking and immobiliser. If that’s the case, then an auto electrician is probably your best bet, but definitely check the key’s battery first.

Any odd or new noises from an automatic transmission are, indeed, bad noises Gavin. Squealing or screeching from the gearbox can be caused by any number of things, but none of them are good and none of them are likely to go away on their own.

To be honest, I’ve heard of more problems with the Isuzu’s manual gearbox, with the fifth-gear synchro dragging and making a dry-bearing noise. The first thing I’d do is interrogate the car’s on-board computer to see if any fault codes show up and take it from there.

It would only be speculation on my part of I was to try and diagnose the problem; it could be any number of things causing it. The best thing is to continue working with your Isuzu dealer until the cause of the problem is found, particularly as the car is still under warranty. If the dealer can’t find the fault get them to call in Isuzu head office technical staff that should be able to track it down.