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Purchased new in April 2004 (manual 5-speed, XR model). Started making scraping noises @ 109K about a month ago (sounded a bit like brake rust, "hissing" or "growling" when accelerating or decelerating, but with clutch down the noise quieted down). Got worse (louder and more obnoxious) over the past week so I tried changing the transmission fluid this past weekend (fluid was the color of black coffee - I'd never changed ... Read More
My car is 7 years old, but I hardly drive, my car has 58,000 miles on it and the transmission just took a dive.....So much for Toyotas lasting forever, and so much for me stating I would never drive anything but a Toyota. The repair is higher than bluebook. Just for the record it is a 2004 Toyota Matrix XRS 6 speed.
We had our 2004 Matrix (standard) and loved it- maintained it- has 133,000 kilometers on it. We've both driven standards for over 25 years with no issues- no problems. So experienced drivers and experienced car owners.The past two months have been a disaster. First the right caliper seized in highway driving. And this month that "noise" started.. We took it into the 'stealership" and they had no problem identifying that it ... Read More
So...we loved our 2004 matrix until we had to replace the tranny for about $3000. Before that happened, we bought a used 2003 matrix (we were under the impression from years of experience that Toyotas never die!), and just last week replaced that transmission for about $3400! I've been driving Toyotas for 40 years. Will never buy another one.
Just had the bearings replaced along with a new clutch at 146,000 miles. The car has been regularly serviced with probably 90% or more commuter highway miles, and my wife is not an abusive driver. Independent trans shop stated that they found the same two problem bearings that they always find, so I question some previous comments that this problem is only found with 2003 or 2004 models. Kudos to my ... Read More
The Matrix was/is built in Canada. If you look up Toyota Matrix in wikipedia, the information on the side will show that the assembly was/is Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
Me too - 2004 Matrix 5 speed. Trans failed around 68,000 but began making noise long before. Total cost to date is around $3000 for transmission repairs. Toyota customer service offered $200 assistance since I did not use a Toyota dealer for repairs. I think our problem here is that we will never get Toyota to acknowledge this issue because this really isn't their car. Here in the USA this model ... Read More
I have been dealing with this same problem also...you can check my early posts. I just got this from Toyota today. Dear Mr. Saltzman: We apologize for the concerns with your 2004 Matrix, and regret to advise we would not be in a position to offer further financial support of the vehicle. Regarding any purported research of a technical issue, we would not have any information to share unless a Special ... Read More
I had the same problem. My 2004 Matrix, 115,000 died just as I pulled into the dealers driveway. As on user here described it sounded like someone had thrown a handfull of nuts and bolts into a blender. They gave me a repair estimate of $3475.00 and never mentioned anyone else having problems. Told me the Blue Book Value was $3500.00. It didn't seem worth repairing. I, now I think, stupidly, ... Read More
I just signed on and was surprised to find so many Matrix owners with similar problems. I just experienced the same problem with my 2004 Matrix, with 115,000 miles. The car was making a strange noise, not loud, it just sounded like a loose shield of some type, just a slight rattle. I wasn't particularly concerned, but made an appointment for the dealer to take a look. Just as I was ... Read More
We have a 2003 Matrix XR with a manual transmission. Up until this past week, it's been great and I'd always say (when people asked if I liked it), "I'd buy it again, knowing what I know now." Then at a hair under 100k, the transmission goes. And then we find all these accounts of exactly the same thing happening to 2003 (and, to a lesser degree, 2004) Matrix pointing to ... Read More
Hi, I actually sent an e-mail to the NYTimes & National Public Radio a few weeks back when the Prius' problems started to come to light. I agree, we should all voice this concern and maybe we'll get some response. My '04 Matrix died at 62,000 K. the e-mail addresses I used are: letters@nytimes.com atccommentary@npr.org Here it what I wrote: I have been reading and listening with great interest about Toyota ... Read More
2004 - Toyota Matrix We went to put new plates on vehicle and guess what folks - they are PLASTIC! The heads of 3 out of 4 of them simply broke off - leaving us to use a wrench - drill - and muscle to get out. I could not believe how they bent! I phoned dealership service department to see if they'd fix this for free (I know you are ... Read More
2004 Matrix - front wheel drive - auto trans. Had original tires rotated as suggested and ended up replacing them @30k. Was told by Dealer the original "Continental" tires only last to about 30k. So we bought the Yokohama you mentioned. They have been on for 3-4 years and already need replacing. We have had a front end alignment per warranty for the tires purchased at Plaza tire (Forever Tire program ... Read More
Please include my car in any class actions with Toyota. I have a 2004 Matrix (5 speed manual) with 41K and the clutch has been getting worse over the last 6 months. The low gears do not seem to have as much slipping as the higher gears. Lately, the clutch will slip when you try to apply any acceleration on the roadway. I realize I need to take this in, but ... Read More
I've got a 2004 toyota matrix and it's in pretty good condition. The only issue is when you open a door the front dome light doesn't turn on. The middle and back dome lights turn on just not the front. When you push the button to physically turn on the light it turns on but doesn't turn on when doors open. There's only one bulb and it seems to be working ... Read More
Same issue here - grinding noise that is diagnosed as needing a new transmission for a cost of $3200. Car has about 115,000 miles. We've never had this happen to any of our cars, including Toyotas. I have emailed the person from message #345, but have not heard back. Has anyone else heard of any activity with a class action suit? In the meantime, I will add my vehicle to the ... Read More
Last night on my husband's way home from work the car starting to make a grinding noise. He drove the car to our mechanic's shop and we found out today that the transmission is shot and a new clutch should be installed. The car has about 144,000 miles on it and we have been having a hard time to find someone to rebuild the transmission - no one will touch it ... Read More
I have a 2004 mistake Oh I mean Matrix. Transmission number 3 just failed today. I was lucky when my first clutch failed 11,000 miles, and after much discussion they fixed free of charge. After 2 failed I was not going to let Toyota touch it went to private repair shop, They told me I wouldn't have any problem with their clutch. Well one year later here I am again. I ... Read More
I have a 2004 Toyota Matrix XR with about 90,000 miles. I took it in because my gears were slipping, specifically when I was getting up to speed on the freeway. Pretty scary and very unsafe to have gears slip! I couldn't believe that I would need a new clutch. I grew up driving manual cars, and I have never had a clutch problem. When I took it in, I found ... Read More
Unfortunately we will add ourselves to the hundreds of others who are having similar transmission issues w/ our 2004 Matrix. With 98k we were told to replace the throwout bearing, clutch and pressure plate as we were on the highway when a horrific grinding noise occurred- the car grabbing & bucking, lost 5th & 4th gears. Now that this work has been completed, the car appears to be making the same ... Read More
I'd like to stress the importance of upyourstoyota (great name) message. And I'd like to add to it. Another poster gave the federal website. It is, again: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/index.cfm. (Sorry, I can't get it in blue to link, please just copy.) There are currently 22 complaints on the manual transmissions of 2003 and 2004 Toyota Matrixes. (Under the "Components" category, go to Powertrain.) They also give an 800 number if you prefer ... Read More
Another poster gave the federal website. It is, again: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/index.cfm. (Sorry, I can't get it in blue to link, please just copy.) There are currently 22 complaints on the manual transmissions of 2003 and 2004 Toyota Matrixes. (Under the "Components" category, go to Powertrain.) They also give an 800 number if you prefer to call in. Enough complaints can trigger a recall. We need to really push on this. It is ... Read More
I'd like to stress the importance of upyourstoyota (great name) message. And I'd like to add to it. Another poster gave the federal website. It is, again: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/index.cfm. (Sorry, I can't get it in blue to link, please just copy.) There are currently 22 complaints on the manual transmissions of 2003 and 2004 Toyota Matrixes. (Under the "Components" category, go to Powertrain.) They also give an 800 number if you prefer ... Read More
Follow up with my first message #284: The reply from Toyota.ca to my question about their responsability with that transmission problem was as expected: «We are not aware of any common problem with the Matrix transmissions». So I reply to them telling my thoughts about their attitute. And went to have my car fixed. It has finaly been done by an independant mechanic, because my Toyota dealer asked too much and ... Read More
I purchased my Matrix last year. The manufacturer's warranty expired January 09, and TADA the following week my transmission was hemorrhaging fluid. Apparently yes I need a new bearing and there is some give in the axle. A sweet mechanic replaced the seals hoping that would solve the problem. WRONG! I purchased this vehicle for the fact I have trusted in Toyotas, and now this. I am a single girl and ... Read More
My wife and I are Toyota people, I have owned Toyotas for last 25+ years. Right now we have 2004 Corolla and 2002 Camry. Looking to replace 2002 Camry and looked at Matrix. Love the way it looks and being it is a Corolla 5-door hatch, were expecting a great test-drive. Boy, was I disappointed. It was so bad I wonder if it was just a lemon of a test car ... Read More
My Matrix is parked in my driveway until I find out what is happening with that transmission issue. I am happy I found that forum, it helps me understand what happened to me today. Since french is my first language, excuse the mistakes please... For a few days, I was hearing that distant grinding sound from the motor and I finally stopped to a small neighborhood garage to have it test ... Read More
The postings in this thread are related to problem MANUAL transmissions in 2003 and 2004 MY cars. I am not aware of any widely reported transmission problems among AUTOMATIC last-gen Matrixes like yours. So take heart and wait to see what the mechanic tells you. Good luck! :-)
Add me to the list: My 2004 toyota matrix with 92000 miles had the transmission fail yesterday, looks like another failed bearing. if there's any legal action please send me the info, I'm ready to battle it out!!
2004 Base Matrix 5-speed DEAD at 73K Found this post AFTER my tranny failed. Wish I could have found it before. Same tranny problem as everyone has had. Noise coming from engine compartment, led to a whine which led to, what sound like, pieces of my tranny falling out. After that I lost first gear. Pulled into a gas station and decided to try to hobble to the dealer. Didn't make ... Read More
I'm from Montreal and I just got my car back, guess I got lucky (if you can call it that) because I heard that weird sound comming from the trany early enough to get the car to the shop. I then brought it to Toyota to get it inspected and mentionned this forum, but they denied the problem as have so many others I have read on this forum They changed ... Read More
I wrote around 2 to 3 wks back about my 2004 XR Matrix 5spd. I wrote that the transmissions going out due to a faulty bearing. I stopped driving it immediately. Was taking the bus, bumming rides, and always was on other peoples time. I bought the matrix off of a coworker and I came to find out she had an extended warranty on it. My mileage was at 61,0000. I ... Read More
Alright, I have have heard enough!! I have been on this website for over a year listening to all the complaints about the Toyota Matrix between 2003 - 2005. Is anybody willing to do anything about it???? I go to Japan every year and I can tell you that if the President's of Toyota in Japan knew what was happening in Canada they would be totally ashamed of what is happening. ... Read More
I do not recall what first caused me to be interested in the Vibe/Matrix, but when the near by Pontiac dealer had some 2009 AWD models arrive, I decided to check them out. Here in the Rocky Mountains, all wheel drive is a very valuable asset. I compared the Vibe and Matrix AWD "twins", and analyzed the deal available on each in my vicinity. The Vibe simply had the upper hand ... Read More
Hi All, man I bought my toyota matrix from a coworker. In mint condition. 1 year later, I hear a spuddering or rattling sound everytime I press the gas after shifting. My heart dropped and knew it couldn't be anything simple to fix. After reading this blog I am so blown away from all this. I've had 3 toyotas in my past life and thought for sure this was going to ... Read More
Man, I wish I would have found this forum sooner! I bought my 2004 Toyota Matrix XR back in 2003 brand new. I have been the only owner and only driver. I have an Automatic transmission. Back around 55,000 miles, my transmission started catching between 1st and 2nd gear. It was almost like it would stick between gears, shift hard and then any gears after that were fine when shifting. I ... Read More
Answer according to AN is yes, a total of 540,000 Corollas and Matrixes from 2003-2004 model years, and 123,000 Vibes as well. If I still had my '03 I would gather up my VIN and give Toyota a call to make sure. As far as I know, my '07 is not included in the recall.
You can add my 2004 Toyota Matrix to the list of manual transmissions that "went out." Yes, I had 120K miles on the car, but I'm told by certified Toyota mechanics that the transmission (with mostly highway miles) should have lasted much longer. My mechanic has seen 2 bad transmissions now, one in a Corolla with only 45K miles. No more Toyotas for me.
Yet another blown clutch on a too-young Matrix. This is a 2004 XRS with only 52,000 EASY miles. I am definitely filing a complaint with NHTSA and with Toyota USA. Not sure how I'm going to react if TUSA tells me they have no record of this being a common problem.
I bought this red matrix a month ago , nice auto. A little expensive i think i got an xr no abs brakes and everything is extra. Ok so i like the auto for its great gas mileage and ability to turn hatchback quick and easy. I returned to dealer 3 times to repair hood prop it keeps coming out of fender well the clip breaks often. gas mi abt 25-27 ... Read More
I have a Toyota Matrix 2004 XRS. I was out of country for a couple of weeks, and the tire pressure of one of my tires was down to 12.5. I pumped some air in it and now it's 19.5. The tire pressure of my other 3 tires is all different. I lost the owner's manual so I can't look it up. Does anybody have any ideas what the right tire ... Read More
I guess I should be so lucky that my transmission lasted until 135,000 km's. or about 84,000 miles. I agree that this could be a safety issue. Transmissions fail unexpectantly. There is a faulty main bearing. Toyota is aware of the problem and currently has an update kit for the transmission but has failed to let consumers know. It is unknown whether the failure of this bearing could result in a ... Read More
Your noise descriptions are EXACTLY like mine. The initial rattling my friends I decided was probably a hole in the exhaust system. THen on the highway, suddenly changed to high pitched whine until we pulled off the highway and shifted down and the horrible clunking of metal started. Managed to make it to the next exit at Houlton and got it towed from there. I don't know how to get something ... Read More
And the agreed to warranty on the transmission is how many miles? It's probably safe to assume that you didn't purchase the extended warranty package, correct? I think everyone has an expectation that it's going to run for 100's of thousands of miles, but legally Toyota appears covered. Whether they do anything out of 'good will', is a different subject.
Bought this car brand new in in May 2003. In August, on a trip Upstate, I noticed a noise coming from the engine compartment of my car. I had about 61,000 miles on the car at that time. I this I first noticed this rattling noise because we had the windows up and the a/c on. Never noticed it before. The car shifted fine, just had this annoying noise that reminded ... Read More
Really? They haven't corrected this problem yet? I've always purchased Toyotas becasue they were quality, dependable cars. I'm quite distraught to find that this may not be the case.
Not sure that it necessarily has to be a "new" transmission. You may end up with a Toyota factory rebuilt unit.
I have a 2004 Matrix with 46,000 miles on it. About a month ago, the manual transmission blew and had to be replaced. While reading these forums, I found that this is not an uncommon problem. My faith in Toyota is shaken, and I'm now questioning the reliability of my car. My question to all of you... How reliable has your Matrix been? I'm interested in year and mileage. If you've ... Read More
I have 46000 miles on my 2004 Matrix. Just had the manual transmission replaced a month ago... ask me how much I like this car right now. The check engine light came on duing my drive home earlier this week. I followed the advice to disconnect the battery, which seems to have solved the problem. Thanks for the tip, since it save me having to deal with the Toyota dealership again. ... Read More
My mechanic told me that the growl from my 2003 Matrix XR at 132,000km was a transmission bearing. After finding out through these posts that 2003 and 2004 Matrix do indeed have a problem, I found out from a Toyota mechanic that the bearings had been upgraded on 2005 models onwards. Armed with a printout of these posts, my service records stating that the fluid had been changed per the service ... Read More
I just wanted to note that I visited this forum about 2 months ago when I first started hearing the noises from the transmission. There were a lot of talk about a pully tensioner and loose alternator pullies that people thought was making a lot of rattling and grinding noises from the engine compartment. I am willing to bet that they are actually having problems with their transmissions and that this ... Read More
By the way, the repair bill for a new transmission is $5000. Luckily i only had to bay $2000 because I had mine serviced at Toyota and my dealer called Toyota Canada directly. The problem seems to exist only with 2003-4. The transmission and engine was changed for 2005. So if you want a Matrix get a 2005 or later and you may be ok. I probably still won't get one ... Read More
I don't know that ALL matrix's have this problem. It seems like the first few years do. We bought our 2004 in 2003, not being a car designer, I don't know what those differences would include. I didn't see any such posts on 2005 and forward. I must say that the car was great in all other respects...we actually were able to get an apartment sized refrigerator in the thing, so ... Read More
Agreed that my comment was a stretch and perhaps out of context. Just Venting! :) Worn tires and brakes are known maintenance and are easily visibly identified. And you are correct in that the Neon which was known to wear brakes and tires prematurely was not recalled to my knowledge? Hopefully the transmission casing on the matrix is strong enough should there be such a catastrophic event as described above. With ... Read More
As much as I understand the reason to try and stretch the logic as to what is 'safety', my opinion is that is an argument that is going nowhere. If you think about it, there are more obvious items that would be a far worse safety exposure, that occur much sooner than an engine or transmission failure. - Tires wearing bald at 20-30K miles......why shouldn't a dealer have to maintain those? ... Read More
I think the Vibe/Matrix are in their own category. The only similar vehicles are the new Honda Fit and Nissan Versa. for us, the Fit felt much smaller inside, and the Versa didn't have fold-flat back seats. I did a lot of research, also wanting a used vehicle, and we wound up buying a 2004 base Vibe with AT. We've been very happy with it so far. We wanted good fuel ... Read More
2004 xrs clutch went out at 4,000 miles, toyota paid. clutch went out again at 23,000 miles, toyota said I ride the clutch and I had to pay. 27,000 miles today and the clutch is slipping. The car is a piece of crap. I had a 92 Honda Civic si Hatchback 5 speed with 320,000 of MY miles on it and replaced that clutch once!!! SUDDENLY I CAN'T DRIVE A STICK! ... Read More
I am the New case for August 13, 2007 Lucky(13) 2004 Toyota Matrix 5 speed manual Trashed transmission at 110K miles. No problems until now Original owner. Never had a problem until NOW. What can I do? pay the $4,000 along with 12 more months of payments. And sell this car. Not far to the next person. Please help me with advice or direction???
I am in tears. I also, have owned other Toyota's and have to rplace my transmission at 110K miles and I have 12 months of payments. $4,000 to replace tansmission. 2004 Matrix stick shift and I drive to work that is a 40 minute trip up and back everyday. Changed oil at 3,000 miles. I am crying, I can not believe this is happening I loved this car and had no ... Read More
I have been hearing about a class action suit against the Toyota Matrix transmissions. Is this true to anyone's knowledge? My dad purchased a used 2004 Matrix with low miles and since he is a courier he puts a lot of miles on his car. He got to 199,000 miles before his transmission went out but when he went to have it repaired he found out he had 1 of 4 ... Read More
2004 matrix 5 speed transmission blew at 110,000 miles. The clutch was gone too. Cost is $2625.00 for a REBUILT tranny and clutch. This is crazy !! Has anyone heard of a class action lawsuit beginning yet? Something has got to be done. No car should do this at mileage its' happening. This is my 6th toyota..and it's my last.
From what I have read and from (painful) personal experience Here are the common transmission problems with the Matrix 2003-2006 XRS 6-speed manual clutch failures at around 50,000km 2003 5-speed manual - bearing failure at around 105,000km Like I posted earlier, My 2003 XR 5-speed failed at 108k km (about 68k miles) The output shaft bearing blew up killing some other parts in the tranny costing $2400 to fix. Summary of ... Read More
I have 2003 5 speed Matrix XR bought in May of 2002. At a little over 95,000 I requested they check everything thoroughly just in case something looked questionable and I could get it covered before the warranty expired. I was told everything was great. (90% of my miles are highway miles, so clutch and everything else appeared to be in great shape.) Yesterday at 108,000 miles they informed me my ... Read More
I have a 2004 matrix XRS with only 113,000 kms and just replaced the clutch and am told my transmission is trashed. This is unacceptable for a Toyota product! I am looking into warranties and replacements but feel this needs to be addressed by Toyota Canada, and if not by them, then Toyota Japan. I have only driven Toyota and this is the worst car I have ever owned - even ... Read More
I have a 2004 XR FWD on its second set of tires at 37,000 miles, and now these tires are wearing funny. I am scheduled for an alignment this week to see if the problem can be cured. One thing for sure, these cars are not coming off the assembly line with the wheels properly aligned.
Hi all, I am looking at buying a 2007 Matrix XR and the toyota.com web site shows four major option packages for the XR (for SF bay area zip codes) Opt A: not a package at all Opt B: EVP#1 + 17-in aluminum wheels Opt C: ABS + EVP#1 + moonroof Opt D: ABS + side air bags + EVP#2 + 6-disc CD changer I would prefer a combo of "ABS ... Read More
Hi, Yesterday I test drove a 2004 Matrix XR at a dealership in Los Angeles. The price is 13,777, mileage in the 40's, and the car has a moonroof and cruise control. I really liked the car and the amount of interior space. I'm concerned, though, because despite the fact that the car is Toyota certified, the check engine light was on during my test drive. I saw another thread about ... Read More
I have a 2004 FWD Matrix XR with the same problem. The inside edge is bald and the outside edge looks new. I rotate every 5000 miles, balance every 10,000 and now I started checking the alignment every 5000. NTB says its the Continental tires on the car. Toyota says I don't take care of the tires properly. I contacted Toyota in CA and filed a complaint. I have to replace ... Read More
Hi, I bought a 2005 Matrix XR in Dec 2004. Right after I drove it off the lot, the gas pedal started making a creaking sound when it was depressed. Think of like a sort of dry plastic sound. The next day I took it back to the dealership, they said the gas pedal wasn't properly lubricated on the assembly line.. and they properly lubricated it, and that has been the ... Read More
When I bought a Toyota several years back, I was told that the corporation's policy was to not allow dealers to install cruise control. That should tell you something! I personally will never again go for an add-on cruise control. The cars I have owned with add-on systems (1987 Chevy Nova, 1989 Nissan Sentra wagon)would not hold speed very well even on fairly slight uphill grades, and they also increased fuel ... Read More
My Matrix is a 2005 (purchased in May, 2004) XR, AWD. I found it very disturbing that my brake problems happened very shortly after I had all four tires replaced (by the Toyota dealer). Ichecked with another mechanic who told me it was entirely possible that the lug nuts were overtightened when they replaced the tires, causing the rotors to warp. Toyota is denying any culpability, as usual. I am really ... Read More
I must congratulate on your lucky Matrix. I also read someone's matrix could get 38mpg on highway. Mine is 2004 base 2WD with 19K miles now. Today I got a pathetic 26.4mpg for a 350 miles highway only trip. I know I am not alone, so I am not sure why people are telling vastly different stories. But, I will ask the guys at toyota to take a look at it. ... Read More
Get rid of it now if you can before it costs you a ton of money. I have had similar problems with my 03 plus a whole host of others. I originally bought the car hoping to get great milage. The average with auto trans is 29mpg with a majority of highway miles. Ok so I'll deal with it it's not the mid 30's I was hoping for. First it comes ... Read More
Here is a email I wrote the toyota company. Just a note: They brag about quality, but I wonder where that is with the service: Hello there, We bought a Toyota Matrix in March of 04. We were excited as it was our first new car. We refinanced our home so that we could do this. It cost us about $18,900.00 or so. We got the whole works with the alloy ... Read More
hi! I have a Toyota matrix 2004. At 30000 something miles i heard shhh sounds at the front end of the car.. so i brought it to the dealer and they said i need a wheel alignment but still the sound was there, so they told me that i should get new tires because it's thinning out and the sound came from the tire. After a month, I had discount tires ... Read More
I am researching options to purchase my first car. Among my other choices, is a used CPO Matrix XR (a 2004 mostly). Here are my concerns: From some of the photos I've seen, the spoilers in the front seem to touch the ground or are very close to it. Does this cause any problems (such as dragging on the ground)? It is supposed to be an option, but isn't really if ... Read More
I wish you better luck than I had with trying to special order a Matrix. After researching several vehicles for over 1 1/2 years for the specifications, equipment, and reliability I desired I wasted nearly 2 months with a dealership who just wouldn't be honest with me about supposedly putting in a special order for Extra Value Package #2 (QP) plus side airbags (BE) on a 2004 Matrix XR FWD. All ... Read More
Gee Thel, I think I can figure out when I need to see my Toyota dealer - I was interested in whether many people using this site have experienced O2 sensor problems... especially on the 2004 Matrix -If you haven't experienced what I am asking about then why are you writing to me with such biting undertones? Have I offended you somehow? Summer has just started here in the desert and ... Read More
I thought the posts about one's age, the car's color, and purchasing a Matrix were interesting. I bought a standard matrix in February. Right off the lot. I didn't have many choices in color; there were only two to choose from. The one I chose is lunar mist. It's fine. Now, I am what one might call old -- 53 and still counting. The salesman told me that Toyota erred in ... Read More
1. Take off: a little worse than expected. It felt sluggish, and the engine note was louder and sounded more strained than expected. I thoguht it would be more refined from a Toyota. 2. Once it got rolling: Went up to about 75 mph ( just over 3000 rpm in top gear) and it sounded and felt fine. 3. Handling and ride: Not too soft, about expected. 4. Gauges and dash ... Read More
Check posts 88-95 in "Toyota Matrix vs. Pontiac Vibe -- Compare Notes." (These are from November 2002, and at that time the discussion apparently was called "Matrix & Vibe Enthusiasts -- Compare Notes." The brochure I picked up about the Matrix at the time we were purchasing it in August 2002 claims this about the drivetrains: "Front engine, front or full-time 4-wheel drive (full-time 4WD available on Matrix and Matrix XR ... Read More
The Toyota deal in my area is currently offering 1,000 below invoice. I just picked up my 2004 Matrix FWD XR for 15,818 plus taxes and freight. This included extra value package #1 (cruise control, front fog and driving lamps, front and rear underbody spoiler), ABS, all weather package, floor mats. They were also offering 2.9%/60 mo. financing with no money down.
I bought my 2004 Cosmic Blue Matrix XR through an online website that connected me with Toyota dealers in the greater Sacramento, Ca. area and I purchased my car at Auburn Toyota. I did the whole deal over the phone. Paid $17,400.for the following: Extra value package #2 ABS brake system Premium AM/FM w/ 6-CD changer All mats Got 2.9% financing w/ no money down and they paid off loan (2 ... Read More
Hello! I’m considering a 2004 Toyota Matrix for my next car (If the 2004 Prius isn’t quite quite attuned to my tastes like I hope it might be that is) and I was hoping that some of you on this board could answer some questions I have about the car. #1 - Is this a car that you’d recommend purchasing snow tires for or does it hold it’s own well enough ... Read More
John: There are Q /C people on site not only from Toyota and GM but from most of their suppliers as well, especially Delphi too. Nippon: Don't get me wrong I in no way think that the Sunfire / Cav. combo can even come near the design and execution of the Vibe / Matrix. But it does seem strange that the GM "twins" having been born @ one of GM's worst ... Read More
malibu_jack, premium fuel is recommended, but according to a couple of dealers I talked to, it is not required. I think you lose power if you use 87 octane, but that's about it. Does anyone know where I can get a basic Toyota Matrix service manual? I just want instructions on routine maintenance instructions, such as oil changes, spark plug replacement, etc. Haynes doesn't seem to have a book out for ... Read More
Hurler, yes, what I meant was fake carbon, it is easier to get, because of the demand. Some think it looks cooler than fake aluminum and it should be definitely more scratch-resistant. But I do not see why someone would not make more traditionally looking panels. The only question is, does demand for such a panel would justify the production? Do not think so :( Now, anyone in the mood for ... Read More
If all the planets are aligned... thanks to all who posted in the Problem/Solution Page so I know what to look out for. Finally giving up my beloved Toyota v6 P/U 2wd for a Matrix 2004 base.
I haven't quite ruled out the Vibe yet, but am leaning toward the Matrix, mostly for the reasons that nippononly brought up. I hear the roof rack on the Vibe does add noise. Also, the Toyota will definitely hold its value better. But it really is a tossup. I'd say go with whatever car you think has better styling. Couple of other reasons to pick the Matrix over the Vibe: 1) ... Read More
Hurler4 (and others): You mentioned you'll probably buy the Matrix instead of the Vibe. Can you tell me why? I'm having a very hard time with this for basically only a few reasons (I'll be buying a 2004 Matrix or Vibe): 1) In Canada, if you want ABS brakes on the 2004 Matrix, you have to buy an entire option package at $2000 CAD that includes the moonroof (I don't want ... Read More
Here is the scoop on the gauges for the 2004 Matrix: They are still red, but have more white illumination for 2004. It looks like the gauges may be a bit closer to those of the 2003 Corolla (although those gauges are more blue, I believe). Thank God Toyota listened to people. Now if only they could add a telescoping steering wheel...
I wonder if Toyota fixed the lousy steering wheel position/driving postion for 2004? Sorry...but I did not appreciate the fact that in order to drive a Matrix/Vibe...my arms would have to be stretched out way ahead of me. A shame because it's a well thought out car otherwise.
If you go in and look at the 2004 eBrochure on the Toyota website it has "Red projector Optitron meters with speedometer, tachometer...", so it appears as though the color ('colour' for my fellow Canucks) of the gauges remains red, not white.
Thanks for pointing the update out. Quick look shows Toyota dropped the Auto Trans on the XRS.
FYI, the Toyota website now has the 2004 Matrix up. It shows the new colors (yellow, gray)...alas, the interior views are of the 2003. Wish I had more info on the gauges on the '04. Anyone seen one yet?
xr5speed, that's a great idea for getting rid of the glare. Does the permanent marker really stick to the shiny surface? If I get a Matrix in the next few weeks, I'll have to try that. It's pretty easy to pop the rings out? The 2004s seem to be on lots in many parts of the country. Has anyone seen one yet? I'm curious to see what the gauges look like, ... Read More
Will there be any new colors or options for 2004? If Toyota is listening - I wish for a Matrix with fog lights and no "skirts". Green would be nice or a dark grey color...
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