2008 Toyota Matrix Consumer Discussions

Engine rattling noise

• Engine rattling noise

  Written by: matrix08 on Apr 11, 2011 12:39:37 PM

  Hi All, I recently purchased a 2008 Toyota matrix and on cold start after I put it into gear a loud rattling noise comes from the engine. Noise will go away once warmed up. Toyota cleaned out the throttle body but the noise still persists. Anyone had a similar problem and was there a resolution.. Thanks

Matrix 2009/10 paint problem

• Matrix 2009/10 paint problem

  Written by: mantech on Aug 20, 2010 4:02:26 PM

  I am getting sick and tired of my Matrix 2009 paint quality. The chips is all over the hood! I purchased this car last April 2008. On the 1st 6 months of ownership, about 5 paint chip already in there and the chip is really bad you can see the gray primer paint. there is no way to buff, mind is nautical blue in colour is getting more ugly now. I ... Read More

Toyota Matrix Check Engine Light

• torque converter problem for 2008 Matrix

  Written by: hunkymon on Jun 3, 2010 11:17:44 PM

  I have a 2008 Toyota Matrix. The check engine light came on and the scope came back with torque converter problem. Does anyone know what this involves and how it would affect the transmission? Thanx Bob

Toyota Matrix Brake Questions

• Re: Toyota Matrix 2005 ABS Grindindg Noise Brakes [mw20]

  Written by: RavenMesa on Feb 16, 2010 8:42:03 AM

  mw20, You are the first person who has adequately described the awful ABS brake noise I get with my 2008 Matrix. I've tried to describe it here but no one seemed to believe me or thought I was exaggerating. I too have been told this noise is "normal" both by people in this forum and by others. It may be "normal" but it should not be acceptable! I think Toyota trying ... Read More

Toyota Matrix

• Re: 2008 Matrix w/ Gas Pedal Problem [kcobuffalo]

  Written by: mantech on Jan 29, 2010 3:57:19 PM

  I used to own 07 Matrix but that was 5 speed manual. The automatic trans. is around 100 lbs heavier than the manual trans. This 1.8L engine which is 1ZZFE for 08 model is a kind of slow acceleration when equipped with 4 speed auto. especially when the auto trans. is downgearing and it doesn't help either. But in Corollas 1ZZFE has adequate accelaration. 0 to 60mph is 7.9sec,5 speed manual ... Read More

• 2008 Matrix w/ Gas Pedal Problem

  Written by: kcobuffalo on Jan 29, 2010 12:50:54 PM

  I have a 2008 Matrix (automatic) and within 5,000 miles I began having problems with my gas pedal and acceleration almost identical to the recall problems on the 2009/2010 models. Is anyone else having this issue with their 2008 Matrix? I'm currently at 29,500 miles and need to resolve this issue while it is still covered under warranty. However, I'm getting push back from my Toyota servicing dealer because (1) my ... Read More

Matrix Transmission Problems

• Re: 03 Matrix Transmission completely trashed @ 62K [badvibes]

  Written by: quiuri3803 on Sep 8, 2009 10:12:44 AM

  Hello In April of 2008 my 03 Matrix had just reached the 100K miles (101k to be more exact) when the manual transmission went... no prior warnings much like your description. We had it replaced and spent upwards of $2,000. It's been fine since but it was, as for you, a HUGE disappointment coming from a Toyota....! plus, the risk involved on it failing while driving.... Count me in as yet ... Read More

• Transmission Noise

  Written by: mkharmon on Aug 10, 2009 5:50:47 PM

  I have a 2008 Toyota Matrix. For the past 8 months it has started making a popping noise. It sounds like it is coming directly below the center of the engine. A popping noise occurs when the gas pedal is engaged coming out of park to drive or reverse. This is an automatic transmission. The dealer has looked at it numerous times and nothing is found. Has anyone had a similar ... Read More

• Re: Nothing Will Be Done Without Cooperation From Everyone [bcsvermont]

  Written by: robincm on Oct 11, 2009 12:56:58 PM

  Bryan, I would like to talk with you and will call you? Here is the message I recently posted which is closely related to what happened to you: #25 of 26Re: Matrix engine and steering failure [richardi1] by robincm Oct 09, 2009 (9:08 pm)Save | Reply Replying to: richardi1 (Feb 15, 2008 7:56 pm) "On October 7th, 2009, I experienced a very similar situation to what Richard described. In my case, ... Read More

All-New 2009 Toyota Matrix

• Matrix 2009 1.8L engine oil consumption

  Written by: mantech on Jun 15, 2009 1:32:19 PM

  Attention to all Matrix 1.8L engine, Base, B package, Touring same as in Corolla Check your engine oil level, This is not new, It was posted last year in Toyota Nation Forum. Those 09 Model manufactured in 2008 requires an ECU RE-Flash. What happened to me was, they did an oil change to my 09 Matrix 1.8L last March this year. My odometer was 22,KM and after that I checked when ... Read More

Matrix vs Impreza

• these guys

  Written by: nippononly on May 6, 2009 10:55:27 PM

  are hard on ALL the cars they test, but they are particularly hard on the Matrix AWD, in this comparison between it and the Impreza 2.5i: http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2009-toyota-matrix-s-awd-vs-2008-subaru-impreza- -25i-5-door/ Some especially juicy quotes for those that like to laugh: The Matrix's clean, unpretentious interior styling emphasizes function. A pervasive sense of cheapness and fragility prevents its cabin from achieving rugged or utilitarian props. The Toyota's black cockpit is brightened only by acres ... Read More

Matrix Transmission Problems

• I Need Advice

  Written by: bellatogo02 on Mar 18, 2009 7:23:56 PM

  I was very excited about my search for buying a used Matrix, 2007, 2008 model and was not sure on getting a manual or automatic transmission. After reading the forums, I am discouraged about buying a matrix all together. I need advice: What transmission should I get? Is Automatic better than the Manual in the later models? I pay cash for cars, so I have been saving for a long time ... Read More

Toyota Matrix Brake Questions

• Grinding noise and severe vibration in brake peda

  Written by: RavenMesa on Feb 12, 2009 9:09:04 PM

  I have a 2008 Toyota Matrix XR w/ 14,500 miles. I'm having what sounds like the same problem expressed by "chailes" in # 31. In snowy, icy, or slushy conditions - especially if the road is rough - I get a terrible grinding noise and severe vibration in the brake pedal when the brakes are applied. In addition to the noise and vibration, the brakes fail to stop the car. I ... Read More

Matrix Transmission Problems

• failed transmission @ 113k

  Written by: burkes_r_mad on Aug 13, 2008 9:37:09 PM

  I purchased used 03 matrix on March 18, 2008 for my daughter to drive car was very nice. My husband and myself both drove the car before purchasing it the car was great we found all the orginal service records in the car and even found a phone number for the orginal owner of the car (the only other owner) talked with her she said she never had a problem with ... Read More

• Defect Investigator at 1-800-333-0510

  Written by: gmore on Jul 17, 2008 1:14:16 PM

  Here is a reply I got from the Minister of Transportation's Office. Please read and EVERYONE call the number!! By the way a seized transmission at high speed will cause a car to loss control..... Thank you for your correspondence of June 12, 2008, to the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, regarding transmission problems with your Toyota Matrix. The Minister has asked me to reply on his ... Read More

All-New 2009 Toyota Matrix

• auto dimming mirror

  Written by: matrixgirl09 on Jun 26, 2008 6:07:56 AM

  Anybody find an auto dimming rearview mirror w/compass included for the 2009 matrix? I have seen an article or two stating that the cars had it but the toyota dealership said they don't have it. I guess it was an option on the 2008 model, would it be the same one? also anyone get a trunk bike rack?

2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla

• Re: 2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla [azr4el]

  Written by: stopdropandlol on Jun 25, 2008 9:06:10 AM

  I'm trying to make the same decision myself. I have driven both, and a comparable Civic is $4,000 more than the Matrix that I am looking at. I find the Matrix is roomier, has a better driving position, and has more standard features than the Civic does. Also, you can add more options to the Matrix where as the Civic is pretty much purely package deals. I don't think the reliability ... Read More

Matrix Transmission Problems

• toyota matrix transmission failure court hearing

  Written by: pannobaji on Jun 24, 2008 7:30:09 AM

  there is a court case going on in toronto against toyota canada as regards transmission failure toronto provincial courthouse 347 sheppard avenue east toronto ontario canada 10.00am july 11, 2008 third floor i am not sure of the room number its probably 304 but if i am wrong try room 301 might help your cause

Toyota Matrix Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2008 Matrix [jfritsch]

  Written by: jfritsch on May 20, 2008 4:33:49 AM

  I believe the GM pontiac has 5years/100000 mi on the powertrain, vs 60000 on toyota?. Also gm may also have the 5 yr roadside asst., however you would have to check this out. A good price on a 08 Matrix or Vibe with power acc, automatic, and alloys (msrp about 19500 for the pontiac at least ) is in the high 14000's low 15000's. If you start talking 16500 or such ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Matrix [lobe]

  Written by: jfritsch on May 19, 2008 7:02:29 AM

  They were clearing a lot of pontiac Vibe's 08 with msrp of 19500.(Higher than the toyota duplicate 08 matrix I Believe) for the low to mid 15000's (power, cruise, alloys,mats whatever else pref pkg with pontiac has). Thats an OK price since it (and the matrix like it) will wholesale used for about $12500 in a year (what an 07 is now on kbb.com etc) Pontiac warranty is better too. May ... Read More

Toyota Matrix: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Fuel Economy Sucks!!!!

  Written by: matrix42 on Mar 30, 2008 12:31:02 PM

  I bought a 2008 Matrix TRD with automatic and the fuel economy sucks. It has 2417 KM or 1510.6 Miles on it and it is averaging 29.5 miles per gallon (thats 23.6 miles per gallon for you US folks) driving 50/50 city/highway. It is averaging 32 miles per gallon (25.6 miles per gallon US) on highway only driving. It is the worst car I have ever owned for fuel economy and ... Read More

2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla

• Re: 2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla [azr4el]

  Written by: cz75 on May 8, 2008 8:26:22 AM

  Another Si sedan owner chiming in in support of the Civic EX, assuming you don't want the Si for some reason. I haven't driven any Toyotas that recently, but they've always struck me as not quite as fun to drive as Hondas and the build quality never seemed any better than Honda. The main thing going for Toyota is that they seem more willing than any other manufacturer to stand behind ... Read More

• Re: 2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla [azr4el]

  Written by: tarnett on May 7, 2008 10:13:20 PM

  Congrats on the Grad present! Either will be dependable and comfortable. I own a 2008 Civic Si Sedan and love it. I have driven the previous generations of the Corolla and Matrix. I can put it best this way: there's a recent Cadillac commercial where a very pretty young lady says "When you turn your car on, does it return the favor?" IMHO the last Toyotas (not including Lexus) capable of ... Read More

• 2009 Matrix or 2008 Civic or 2009 Corolla

  Written by: azr4el on May 6, 2008 2:56:32 PM

  I'll be graduating from college in a few months and I'm getting a car as a graduation gift/commuter for work. I'm trying to decide between the 2009 Matrix and 2008 Civic. I have yet to test drive either, but after doing some research the Civic always seems to be a winner. I like the matrix mainly because of Toyota's reputation and its cargo space for hauling stuff. The Civic definitely seems ... Read More

Toyota Matrix Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Proceed ?

  Written by: darkparadox on Apr 16, 2008 7:15:19 PM

  Hello! So I’ve decided to finalize my car shopping with a 2008 Toyota matrix. Put cash down ect, working on financing. The deals seems to good to be true though, it was a stroke of luck. A vehicle that was sold, and ultimately fell out. The car is a 2008 Toyota matrix STD the base asking price was 16,200. Is this a good price? It seems to good to be true. ... Read More

Matrix vs Impreza

• Matrix

  Written by: mheberlig on Mar 2, 2008 8:05:44 PM

  I Actually Just Traded My 2006 AWD Toyota Matrix In Last Month For A 2008 Impreza Outback Sport. I Really Like The Subaru Alot More Power. Gas Mileage Hurts A Little Bit But Its Nice

All-New 2009 Toyota Matrix

• whoa ecotrklvr

  Written by: nippononly on Feb 1, 2008 1:27:27 PM

  Where are you getting those numbers? Per Toyota's own website today, RAV4 AWD 2.4 (auto) is rated at 20/25 for 2008. Matrix AWD 2.4 (auto) is at 20/26. The '09 Matrix in its AWD trim only weighs about 100 pounds less than the RAV4 2.4 AWD, probably the main reason the numbers are so similar. What stinks is that all 2.4L versions of the Matrix get the 5-speed auto EXCEPT the ... Read More

Toyota Matrix Lease Questions

• Leasing a 2008 Matrix

  Written by: debbiec1953 on Jan 17, 2008 7:20:43 PM

  I'm new to leasing and today briefly spoke with a dealer about the 2008. He said they're having a lease deal of $189/36 mo/12,000 miles, $2199 due at signing, which is for the base model. I would want the XR automatic with moonroof and some other extras. This is in Syracuse, NY (Romano Toyota) and I would want to trade my 2002 Malibu (52200 miles, moonroof, etc. worth about $5000 according ... Read More

Toyota Matrix Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2008 Matrix XR 5 speed

  Written by: car_guy_5 on Dec 27, 2007 8:19:36 PM

  I purchased a 2008 Matrix XR 5 speed manul with ABS, all weather guard package, and extra value package 2 (alloy wheels, moonroof, cruise, fog lamps, ground effects). MSRP was $18900. I purcashed for $15,577 (includes $750 Toyota rebate + $400 Toyota finance rebate for military). I didn't negotiate the $399 processing fee down so that was added to my bottom line. Also VA tax was $514 dollars. No trade. The ... Read More

Matrix Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 Matrix XRS [jamesimcb]

  Written by: car_guy_5 on Dec 27, 2007 8:07:21 PM

  Just purchased a 2008 Matrix XR with 5spd. Love the car. I think the reports of manual transmission problems are unusual. Same drive train as the Corolla and no reports of problems with the stick there. Also, Consumer Reports would highlight a widespread problem like some people are asserting. Worldwide the 1.8L Toyota engine/transmission combination is hugely popular. Wikipedia states that the 1.8L in the Matrix/Vibe (2ZZ-FE) was installed in the ... Read More

• no more Toyotas for me

  Written by: marjo on Dec 7, 2007 7:48:18 PM

  Well. I posted that I'd like to get rid of my Matrix with its brand new transmission at 83K km... and I did! Sold a base model 2003 for $9300 to a guy who is convinced that Toyotas are great cars and he isn't worried about the transmission. I now have a brand new 2008 Honda Fit LX ... AND am getting $1000 from Transport Canada from the EcoAuto rebate. After ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Matrix Info [dave145]

  Written by: labamba on Aug 27, 2007 12:41:40 PM

  Hi Dave, I've also put in my 2 cents at matrixowners.com. The real problem is with the dealers and the company itself. They are the ones that have decided, in spite of numerous complaints, that there is no problem. Three years later and my top of the line Matrix xrs is worth less than 1/2 of what I paid for it. 27,000 miles and my 3rd clutch is slipping. I'll NEVER ... Read More

Toyota Matrix

• Re: 08 Matrix...possibly [nippononly]

  Written by: val61sf on Nov 13, 2007 9:34:51 AM

  Wow - I missed your reply way back in October! I signed up for notification alert but didn't get this one... Just came upon it. Thanks for all the great info. If I do go with the Matrix, I wonder if I should get the 2007 at a lower price or get the 2008? I don't think I'll go with the 2009... not sure about that one. I realized that I ... Read More

All-New 2009 Toyota Matrix

• Re: All-New 2009 Toyota Matrix [cklho818]

  Written by: moparbad on Nov 1, 2007 3:41:12 PM

  Toyota will be debuting their 2009 all-new Corolla and Matrix in Las Vegas at this Halloween. Are you sure it is ALL NEW? There isn't ONE part in common from the 2008 to the 2009?

Toyota Matrix

• No 2008 Matrix..Replaced by Toyota Blade

  Written by: slavezero on Jun 3, 2007 10:09:55 PM

  Toyota will not be selling a 2008 Matrix. It has been discontinued and is being replaced by a car that Toyota is already selling in Japan, called the Blade.

Toyota Matrix Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Any price benchmarks for Chicago area?

  Written by: rts3 on Oct 7, 2007 5:30:25 PM

  Hi! I was wondering if somebody negotiated a good deal for 2008 Toyota Matrix in Chicago area recently? I'm looking for the XR model and was curious how muc should I stick to? Thanks!

Toyota Matrix

• Re: 2008 Vibe/Matrix? [leseuldaniel]

  Written by: toronado455 on May 20, 2007 4:40:05 PM

  Went to the Montreal auto show mid-Jan, the Toyota people confirmed that the all new 2008 Matrix would be available (at least over here) end of this summer. They also confirmed the reason why it was so late: the styling was juged too ugly and they had to redo it. Could it be released in Canada before the states? Is that possible? (I'm also trying to figure out if it will ... Read More

• Re: Should I wait to buy a Matrix? [jenny541]

  Written by: nippononly on Mar 20, 2007 9:28:13 AM

  If you buy an '08, you will experience the same thing that peeved off a few '02 Corolla buyers: a really short model year that will leave you with the "old model" barely 6 months into your new car ownership. Just something to be aware of if you decide to wait. The deals on the last model year are usually the best regardless of model or manufacturer - Toyota does a ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Vibe/Matrix? [robbieg]

  Written by: leseuldaniel on Feb 8, 2007 8:23:06 AM

  Good news I hope: Went to the Montreal auto show mid-Jan, the Toyota people confirmed that the all new 2008 Matrix would be available (at least over here) end of this summer. They also confirmed the reason why it was so late: the styling was juged too ugly and they had to redo it. Last week, I went to a dealership near Montreal, and I was told the exact same information, ... Read More

• New 2008 Matrix

  Written by: k2qo on Jul 26, 2007 7:10:44 AM

  Gang, Check the Toyota website for the new 08 Matrix. Wow! It's exactly the same as the 07. Hmm........

• Re: No 2008 Matrix..Replaced by Toyota Blade [slavezero]

  Written by: nippononly on Jun 4, 2007 9:32:39 PM

  I think you will find that there will be no 2009 Matrix, but the 2008 will appear in the fall to give the 'Trix one last hurrah before sailing off into the sunset. ;-)

Honda Fit vs. Scion xA vs. Toyota Matrix

• Re: Honda Fit vs. Scion xA vs. Toyota Matrix [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: yenching on May 24, 2007 10:37:48 AM

  Wow. Thanks Mr Shiftright. I'll keep my eyes open in SF and see if they get the car in two months from now. I just hope that the price will not be around the Scion xB 2008 MSRP. Also hopefully the price is a little less than the Honda Fit 2007 MSRP. I guess another perk for the Scion xD is the "Customization". http://www.scion.com/nextgen/ This is what I'm looking at in ... Read More

• Re: Honda Fit vs. Scion xA vs. Toyota Matrix [bostonjazz]

  Written by: yenching on May 24, 2007 8:43:25 AM

  I was also looking to purchase the Honda Fit in July, but the release of the Scion xD (August 2007) wants me to wait a little bit and test drive the Scion xD first before I make my purchase. Here is the information on the Scion xD http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/vdp/articleId=120549/pageNumber=1 It will be an interesting comparison between the Honda Fit 2007" and the Scion xD 2008.

Toyota Matrix

• Re: 2008 Vibe/Matrix? [robbieg]

  Written by: gasman1 on Dec 29, 2006 7:08:27 AM

  Our lab retreiver fits nicely in the back hatch. So you're looking at: a)man/woman in front seats; b)baby seat, baby gear, and folding stroller in back seats; and c) big dog in the rear cargo area. It will work, but for how long? You must ask and answer some questions for yourself. How long of a drive and will you need luggage? Where will luggage, groceries go? Do I really know ... Read More

Changes You'd Like To See in the Matrix

• Re: 2008 Matrix [toronado455]

  Written by: herzogtum71 on Sep 6, 2006 2:39:30 PM

  This could have been my list about our 2003 Matrix except that I like the stiffness of the ride. Changes have been pretty minor in the last 5 years. There are Matrixes all over the place in New England. Are sales not great elsewhere in the country? I have read that Pontiac wants to reinvent itself in a way that explains discontinuing the Vibe. But I think Toyota would be wise ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Matrix [toronado455]

  Written by: steine13 on Sep 4, 2006 5:02:00 AM

  It is not clear that there will be a redesign. For the Corolla, yes, but maybe not for the Matrix. Pontiac has said in a press release, they'd be dropping the Vibe "towards the end of the decade", whatever that means. Keep in mind that the twins were a GM project, and Toyota only added the Matrix after they saw what the car would look like and thought it would be ... Read More

Toyota Matrix

• herzog

  Written by: nippononly on Apr 14, 2004 10:39:24 PM

  No, Corolla is such a revered Toyota model, I am sure they will not rename it a Scion after 2008. But the Matrix, which is currently the Corolla Matrix technically, may well become its own stand-alone model. I think it already should be - there are so many differences between Matrix and Corolla. xA and xB are built on the global Toyota Echo platform (also Yaris etc in other countries). And ... Read More