2003-2008 Toyota Matrix: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Toyota Matrix includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Toyota Matrix .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The A/C warning light may flash and the compressor clutch may fail to engage due to a faulty clutch relay. (2003-04)
Audio system:
The CD player on some early-build vehicles makes a grinding noise during deceleration. (2003)
Battery:
Whenever the battery is too low to start the vehicle, the relay for the daytime running lights (DRL) becomes damaged and a revised relay must be installed. (2003)
Battery:
The battery dies because a faulty headlight switch is unable to turn the lights off and an updated switch is available. (2003)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on because of a very small leak in the evaporative emissions system charcoal canister. (2005)
Check-engine light:
The oil fill nozzles used at some fast lube shops can bend the baffle under the oil fill hole causing engine noise and a possible check engine light. (2003-04)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may illuminate due to a faulty air/fuel ratio sensor. (2005-06)
Interior trim:
The center console door won't close or stay closed unless noise deadening felt is installed under the hinges. (2003-04)
Suspension noise:
A tapping noise that seems to be coming from the dash is actually from the upper suspension mount for the spring on which insulating material must be applied. (2003)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $750 |
| Alternator | $460 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,550 |
| Brakes | $470 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $650 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,550 |
| Exhaust System | $565 |
| Radiator | $780 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,710 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $450 |
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