In 2014, Toyota stopped production of the Matrix. You may still rely on Toyota Care Centers to provide excellent service if you currently possess a Matrix. In the interim, we encourage you to look at the selection of new and Certified Used Toyota vehicles.
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The Matrix was superseded by what Toyota.
Due to dwindling sales, Toyota announced on August 5, 2013, that it will stop producing the Matrix for the US market after the 2013 model year and that there were no plans to replace it with another car.
[46] Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada continued to produce vehicles for the Canadian market for the 2014 model year, and they were put together at Cambridge, Ontario. [Reference needed] After that, the Matrix was no longer sold in Canada and was not available for the 2015 model year. [47] Through its Scion brand, Toyota continued to market a variety of small hatchbacks in North America. The Scion brand “transitioned to Toyota” on September 1, 2016. [48] The Corolla iM would replace the Matrix for the 2017 model year. The newest version, the Corolla hatchback, was introduced for the 2019 model year.
The Toyota Matrix’s issues are what?
Matrix problems with Toyota
- faulty oxygen sensor-related check engine light
- premature wear of the brakes
- excessive use of oil.
- The EVAP System Is the Root of the Check Engine Light.
- Issues with the window regulator.
Is Corolla the same as Matrix?
Without a doubt, Toyota automobiles have excelled throughout the years thanks to fantastic innovations that keep customers interested with each new vehicle or model introduced.
When combined with the accessibility of affordable components and expert labor, the low price point with outstanding functionality and reliability is a strong selling point for the Toyota brand. As a result, it’s no surprise that Toyotas are frequently seen on public highways and in private garages.
But without a doubt, the Corolla and the Matrix are the two most recognizable, reliable, and effective models in the lineup of cars produced by Toyota.
With remarkable fuel efficiency and resale value, they introduced the Toyota Corolla and Matrix.
The Corolla and Matrix from Toyota are frequently disputed as being the same vehicle. Although there are many parallels between the two cars, there aren’t many distinctions either.
The Corolla’s hatchback counterpart, the Matrix, has larger cargo room than the Corolla.
They share the same engine, are each practical, dependable, affordable, simple to maintain, and have excellent fuel economy.
To assist you better comprehend these cars’ similarities and differences, let’s go deeper into their specifications.
The Corolla Matrix (2009-2013)
The Matrix’s official name, Toyota Corolla Matrix, suggested that it shared many characteristics with the Corolla. The main difference is that the Matrix is a hatchback with a large amount of luggage space and an SUV-like capability for people and cargo.
It is a wagon built on the Corolla platform and is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. They are more compact than the Corolla and dependable.
Between the two versions, the Matrix’s trunk space is around 50 cubic feet, or 16 cubic feet greater than the Corolla’s. Additionally, it has a roomier interior than the Corolla. The upright front seats provide excellent visibility and simple entry and egress.
The hatchback has a high roof that makes getting in and out easier and extra passenger and baggage room. The seats in the matrix can be folded flat.
It has reasonable pricing alternatives and is accessible. It boasts a 6.1-inch touch screen with an audio display option, a remote engine starter, and an auto-dimming mirror. It gets fantastic gas mileage of between 20 and 26 mpg in the city and 26 to 32 mpg on the interstate, like most Toyota models.
The 1.8-liter and 2.4-liter engines in the Matrix are both available with all-wheel drive. It has a top speed of 6,000 RPM, a top speed of 0-60 in 90 seconds, and a front-wheel independent suspension with a semi-independent torsion beam in the back.
Owners of Matrix vehicles have access to a variety of performance add-ons, including brake pads, strut brakes, and air filters. Compared to the Corolla, Matrix vehicles provide a stronger ride and more precise handling.
The Pure Corolla (2010-2014)
On the other side, the Corolla is one of the most popular vehicles worldwide. Drivers find it enticing due to its slick design and dependability. It is a fuel-efficient sedan with a lower stance and a curvier body, making getting in and out more difficult.
It is a 3-seater car with dimensions of 4,540 mm in length, 1,705 mm in width, and 2,600 mm in wheelbase. The seats are generally comfortable, however compared to the Matrix, the trunk is modest (13.1 cubic feet).
It gets 32 mpg overall and 48 mpg in the hybrid version. It has a potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 169 horsepower and higher trim lines on the hatchback. It boasts connection and a touchscreen infotainment system. It comes with automated climate control on LE grades and higher.
Both a 139-horsepower inline-4 and a 169-horsepower inline-4 with a sport-tuned suspension are available in the Corolla.
Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) is available with the base engine, which is probably more popular than the bigger engine.
A 6-speed manual transmission can increase the power of an engine.
Numerous safety measures are standard on every Corolla. Active lane control, adaptive cruise control, and front collision warnings are some of these features. Additionally, they have Bluetooth with music streaming, Android Auto compatibility, and power functions.
Are Toyota Matrix vehicles reliable?
A 4.1 out of 5 star rating represents the average. The Toyota Matrix has a 4.0 out of 5 reliability rating. It is ranked 8th overall among 32 vehicle brand names. Find out more information about Toyota Matrix Reliability Ratings.
Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe are they the same?
Many buyers still find two compact automobiles that have been discontinued for some time to be appealing options, particularly small families on a budget who don’t require anything difficult but need something convenient.
Although they compare favorably to a number of current sub-compact SUVs, the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix do have an appealing design, dependable and efficient engines, a flexible interior, and a high level of equipment.
Is one preferable to the other? They share so many characteristics since they were jointly developed by Toyota and General Motors, so no, really. They could even be considered non-identical twins.
Even if their bodies are slightly different, the interior is identicalwith the exception of the emblem on the steering wheel and a few accessories, of course! Driving is not made more difficult by their high front seatsin fact, it improves visibilityand their back seat offers plenty of space. Another point worth noticing is that the trunk floor is entirely made of plastic, making cleanup a breeze.
By the way, the Vibe was available in basic, GT, and AWD models, whereas the Matrix was commonly found in basic, XR, XRS, and AWD variations. The 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine in the simplest model produced 132 HP, while the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder in the most advanced models produced 158 HP. Both all-wheel-drive systems were available as options.
Let’s not forget that the Matrix was a proudly Canadian product built in the Cambridge facility in Ontario, whereas the Vibe was put together in the NUMI plant in Fremont, California, despite the fact that they are two mechanically similar vehicles. But don’t worry, the job quality at these two plants was rated extremely well.
The Vibe is now sold for less money than the Matrix because Pontiac’s name and reputation are no longer as well-known. But even though some people continue to have this opinion, the first was actually made just as well as the second. Both cars are in excellent condition and have passed an inspection, so you can confidently choose between them.
Which Toyota Matrix year is the best?
The tragic Toyota Matrix has a lot of positive qualities. Toyota created one of the most useful little wagons with a lot of storage space, strong dependability, and high safety ratings. It was a multi-tasking compact car, but sadly, it was withdrawn from the market in 2013.
One of the primary issues to consider when purchasing a used Toyota Matrix is reliability. It’s not surprising that the Matrix, which is just a Corolla with a larger trunk, gets a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 according to the people at RepairPal.
However, some Matrix eras are less trustworthy than others. Today, we’re listing the Toyota Matrix model years you should stay away from and the ones you can buy with confidence.
Which Toyota Matrix Years to Avoid?
The following years of the Toyota Matrix should be avoided because of dependability issues:
- Toyota Matrix, 2003
- Toyota Matrix, 2004
- Toyota Matrix 2005
- Toyota Matrix from 2006
- Toyota Matrix 2009
The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app. We’ll show you all you need to know about each listing, including how long it’s been on the lot and whether or not there are comparable cars in the area for less money. We’re built using the same technologies that dealerships use.
Toyota Matrix
The engine issue is one of its most serious problems. Numerous owners have reported hearing ticking or rattling noises emanating from the engine as well as excessive oil use. The Matrix engine simply gave out in the end. According to reports, this feared engine breakdown occurs at about 103,300 miles and costs $3,400 to fix.
The car’s gearbox system, which is similarly prone to failure, is another issue. However, the complaints indicate that a manual system is the only one where this issue occurs.
Toyota Matrix
The version has performed better in terms of dependability than the Matrix from 2003. According to Car Complaints, the 2003 Matrix has received 209 NHTSA complaints and eight recalls.
The 2004 model of the Matrix, which is from the first generation, has issues with the engine and transmission. Similar to the previous year, it appears that only manual transmission cars are affected by the problem, which manifests as loud grinding noises, sluggish shifting, and no fifth gear.
A small number of Matrix owners have complained about engine issues, however at a smaller extent. Owners have heard rattling and ticking noises while driving prior to failure.
Toyota Matrix
Although the 2005 Toyota Matrix’s reliability was far better than that of the 2003 model, it still has issues of its own that are difficult to ignore. The 2005 Matrix is included on this list of Toyota Matrix years to stay away from due to 372 NHTSA complaints and six recalls.
Owners of the Matrix have complained of banging sounds coming from the transmission. Some people have also mentioned irregular shifting and whining sounds coming from the floorboard. A few owners reported that the transmission in their automobile frequently hesitates, which is a sign that the transmission system is broken.
Another problem that potential purchasers should watch out for is the check engine light coming on suddenly. RepairPal speculates that the malfunctioning oxygen sensor that activates the check engine light may be to blame for this problem.
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Toyota Matrix
Unfortunately, dependability issues persisted with the 2006 Matrix in the following year. The 2006 Matrix has 285 NHTSA complaints and eight recalls, according to data from Car Complaints.
The frequently reported abrupt acceleration of the 2006 Matrix is arguably the car’s biggest problem. Many customers have complained that while cruising at modest speeds, their Matrix suddenly accelerated and that applying the brakes had no effect. Many reports state that the airbags didn’t even inflate following impact because of the quick acceleration.
This problem caused the Japanese automaker to initiate a significant recall. Toyota was forced to settle in court with a cool $1.2 billion for what was described as “sudden RPM increase/vehicle acceleration owing to accelerator pedal sticking.”
Toyota Matrix
The 2009 Matrix is one of the worst years to avoid buying a Toyota Matrix because of its plethora of dependability difficulties. The 2009 model of the Matrix, which also happens to be the poorest model year, received yet another “Beware of the Clunker award” from the website Car Complaints.
The main problem with the 2009 Matrix is engine failure. According to numerous reports, the engine’s extreme noise was what people first noticed. When the gas pedal was depressed, the sounds in some instances changed to rattling, and eventually the engine died. It costs $3,400 to correct this problem, which appears at about 103,300 miles.
Once more, the Matrix has transmission issues that mostly impact versions with manual transmissions. Transmission replacement or overhaul is the typical treatment, and it typically costs $2,290.
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Toyota Matrix
The 2007 Toyota Matrix, winner of the “Seal of Awesome award by Car Complaints, is a popular compact car option. It has a spacious backseat, a solid and comfortable cargo compartment, and outstanding fuel efficiency. The 2007 Matrix is a great family car if you have two kids even though it isn’t quite a huge hatchback.
The transmission issue, which exclusively affects manual transmissions, is the main source of reliability problems. Other than that, if you’re searching for an older hatchback, the 2007 Matrix offers fantastic value.
Toyota Matrix
The 2012 Matrix is a solid choice if you’re looking for a newer Matrix model. At a cheap pre-owned price, this compact car provides dynamic appearance, respectable performance, interior comfort, and great fuel ratings.
The majority of the serious issues with the Matrix, such engine and transmission failures, are thankfully nonexistent. Instead, two issues that aren’t exactly deal-breakers for this model are the radio’s flaws and the glare from the back windows. The 2012 Toyota Matrix is a fantastic, dependable vehicle that provides excellent value.
What drives the timing on a Toyota Matrixa belt or a chain?
It is the epitome of “practical” on the inside. The upright front seats allow for simple entry and egress and provide good view. Rear seats may be folded flat to create 53.2 cubic feet of plastic-covered cargo space with tie-down equipment already built in. If you need to transport long objects, you can flip the front passenger seatback forward. For ease of access, the tailgate window opens independently. One of the alternatives is a 115V power outlet. Overall, it’s a fantastic small car, but there are some issues; read on for more information.
Reported issues: An unreliable drive belt tensioner may result in noises originating from the engine compartment that include screeching or rattling. The drive belt tensioner has to be replaced with an upgraded component as part of the suggested fix. The aftermarket belt tensioner costs between $30 and $60, while the OEM part costs between $140-$160. It seems sense to replace the drive belt concurrently.
The Check Engine light may turn on with the codes P0300-P0304, P0133, and P0171 if the intake manifold gasket is leaking. In a repair shop, replacing the intake manifold gasket may cost between $120 and $280. The fix is explained in the service bulletin EG045-07.
The code P0171 may also be caused by a faulty or polluted air flow sensor. It is simple to replace the airflow sensor ($120150 for an OEM part).
Although the Evap system needs to be examined, a faulty gas cap may be the source of the code P0441.
The car won’t start if the starter motor fails. The starter might make one click, but it won’t actually run. There will be a requirement to swap out the starter motor. See additional information on the starter motor. The cost to replace a starter motor ranges from $250 to $420, and it’s an easy task.
There are several stories of manual transmission issues brought on by bad bearings.
A replacement of the ECM (engine computer) with a more recent component is advised for repairs involving harsh shift conditions with the MIL light ON and the code P2716.
Mechanical: The Matrix is available with front- or all-wheel drive with a manual or automatic transmission from 2003 to 2008.
The Corolla’s standard 1.8-liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine (model 1ZZ-FE) also has four cylinders. There is no timing belt in this engine; instead, a maintenance-free timing chain is used. The 180-hp 1.8L 2ZZ-GE motor from the Toyota Celica is used in the sporty Matrix XRS, which is coupled to a six-speed manual transmission. Both engines are dependable and simple to keep up. ABS brakes are an optional feature (standard on XRS).
The 1.8L (1ZZ-FE) Toyota Matrix automatic is rated at 25/31 mpg city/highway for fuel economy from 2005 to 2008. This means that a single 13.2-gallon (50-liter) tank of gas will allow you to drive up to 396 miles (637 km).
In comparison to the Corolla, the Toyota Matrix has sharper handling and a harsher ride.
Safety: Both the driver and front passenger of the 20032004 Toyota Matrix achieved five stars in frontal collision tests conducted by the NHTSA.
The front passenger received four stars in the 20052008 models while the driver received five stars.
Positives: Flat cargo area with attachments for tie-downs, easy maintenance, practicality, dependability, decent gas mileage, liftgate glass that opens individually.
Cons: Outdated interior styling, susceptible to crosswinds, noisy engine during acceleration, and poor performance in snow.