2006 Toyota Corolla matrix problems

General information about Toyota-Corolla matrix
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Toyota Matrix, officially named Toyota Corolla Matrix, is a compact hatchback manufactured by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Cambridge, Ontario and derived from the Corolla. Introduced in 2002 as a 2003 model, the Matrix was the result of a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors, with the GM version being the Pontiac Vibe, which was assembled by New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI) in Fremont, California, United States.

The Matrix was positioned as a sporty hatchback counterpart of the North American Corolla and was counted as a variant of it in Toyota's sales figures.

Although identical mechanically, and nearly as much internally, the Matrix and Vibe had different sheetmetal and exterior trim designed by their respective brands. Both vehicles are narrow, tall station wagons styled in a quasi-SUV fashion (called a crossover utility vehicle or "CUV" by Toyota) and marketed to a fairly youthful market segment. This type of car is also commonly referred to as a sport wagon.

First sold in February 2002, the Matrix saw a minor facelift for the 2005 model year, and was redesigned completely in 2008 for the 2009 model year, following the tenth generation Corolla. Sales of the Matrix were discontinued in the United States in 2013 and in Canada in 2014.

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Common 2006 Toyota Corolla matrix problems

The Toyota Corolla Matrix 2006, also known as the Matrix, is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues that owners have reported. These problems include faulty oxygen sensors, premature brake wear, excessive oil consumption, and window regulator problems.

Faulty Oxygen Sensors: A common issue in the Matrix is the check engine light coming on due to a faulty oxygen sensor. This sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases and sends this information to the engine control module. A faulty sensor can cause the engine to run poorly and decrease fuel efficiency. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can cost between $250 and $420.

Premature Brake Wear: Some Matrix owners have reported premature brake wear, which can be caused by several factors, including driving habits, brake system design, and road conditions. It is essential to have the brake system inspected regularly to ensure safe operation and prevent further damage to the brake components.

Excessive Oil Consumption: Another common issue in the Matrix is excessive oil consumption. This problem can be caused by several factors, including worn piston rings, valve guide seals, or cylinder walls. If not addressed, excessive oil consumption can lead to engine damage and reduced performance. It is recommended to have the engine inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue.

Window Regulator Problems: Some Matrix owners have reported issues with the window regulators, which can cause the windows to fall or not operate correctly. This problem can be caused by several factors, including worn-out components, debris in the window track, or a faulty window motor. It is recommended to have the window regulator system inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic to ensure safe and reliable operation.

In summary, while the Toyota Corolla Matrix 2006 is a reliable vehicle, it still has common issues that owners have reported. These problems include faulty oxygen sensors, premature brake wear, excessive oil consumption, and window regulator problems. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure safe and reliable operation.

Is the 2006 Toyota Matrix a good car?

We're convinced that the 2006 Toyota Matrix would be a satisfying choice for many people -- it rides comfortably; it handles capably enough; it has plenty of room in the backseat for your friends (or your kids); and it provides a lot of flexibility for those whose interests require a lot of equipment.

What is the most common problem with Toyota Matrix?

One of its most severe issues is the engine problem. Many owners have noticed that the car consumed too much oil and heard ticking or rattling noises coming from the engine. Eventually, the Matrix engine just failed.

How many miles will a Toyota Matrix last?

Toyota cars have a reputation for being long-lasting and reliable vehicles that can easily last up to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.

What are the disadvantages of the Toyota Matrix?

Worst Issues

excessive oil consumption in the 2009 Matrix. ...
engine failure in the 2003 Matrix. ...
premature brake wear in the 2010 Matrix. ...
engine noise with cold start in the 2009 Matrix. ...
transmission stopped working in the 2003 Matrix.

Is the 2006 Toyota Matrix a good car?

What is the common problem of Toyota Matrix?

What are the disadvantages of the Toyota Matrix?

Worst Issues

excessive oil consumption in the 2009 Matrix. ...
engine failure in the 2003 Matrix. ...
premature brake wear in the 2010 Matrix. ...
engine noise with cold start in the 2009 Matrix. ...
transmission stopped working in the 2003 Matrix.

Is Toyota Corolla Matrix a good car?

According to carparts.com, the Toyota Matrix has good reliability ratings, such as a four out of five or a reliability score of 81 out of 100. This could be attributed to the fact that the Matrix is basically a Toyota Corolla, just with a larger trunk.

2006 Toyota Corolla matrix complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Toyota Corolla matrix.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2006 Toyota Corolla matrix recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2006 Toyota Corolla matrix.

2019-08-28

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.

2018-01-09

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: On January 9, 2018, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified NHTSA that they are recalling 14,585 model year 2010-2012 Yaris vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. As of January 30, 2018, Toyota is additionally recalling 3,347 model year 2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles located in states listed above. Also included in this recall filing is 98,194 model year 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla Matrix vehicles, located throughout the U.S., that previously received a like-for-like interim air bag inflator replacement. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag assemblies with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 29, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are G0R (Zone B), and H0A (Zone C), J0A (Matrix Zone A), J0A (Matrix Zone A), J0A (Matrix Zone A).

2015-05-13

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015, that they are recalling 2005-2007 Lexus SC, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sequoia, and Pontiac Vibe, and 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles that were originally sold, or ever registered, in Florida, along the Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa. On June 16, 2015 Toyota expanded the recall to cover an additional 769,055 vehicles, including certain model year 2002-2004 Lexus SC, Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix, Toyota Corolla, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Tundra vehicles, as well the vehicles covered by the May 13, 2015 notification in the portions of Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas that were not previously included. The inflators in the front passenger air bags are susceptible to rupture in the event of a crash necessitating the deployment of the front passenger air bag.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: 2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles that are recalled under both 15V-043 and 15V-286 are under a Do Not Drive advisory. Owners of these vehicles are advised not to drive their vehicles until the recall remedy has been completed. Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the passenger side front air bag, free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota began the recall on July 13, 2015. Pontiac Vibe owners may contact GM at 1-800-762-2737. GM began the recall on June 29, 2015. NOTE: This recacll supersedes recall 14V-655 in its entirety. For vehicles located in the U.S. states not listed above, please see Toyota recall 15V-285 which covers all other U.S. states.

2015-05-13

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015 that they are recalling certain model year 2004 Sequoia vehicles manufactured August 18, 2003, to August 19, 2004, and 2003-2004 Tundra vehicles manufactured March 18, 2003, to August 25, 2004. On June 16, 2015, Toyota expanded the recall to include an additional 1,270,468 vehicles, including model year 2002-2003 and 2005-2007 Sequoia, 2005-2006 Tundra, 2003-2007 Corolla, 2003-2007 Corolla Matrix, 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe and 2002-2007 Lexus SC vehicles. This is to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag inflator which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag. This recall addresses both the passenger side frontal air bags that were originally installed in the vehicles, as well as replacement air bags that may have been installed as replacement service parts. A replacement air bag may have been installed, as one example, if a vehicle had been in a crash necessitating the replacement of the passenger side frontal air bag.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: 2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles that are recalled under both 15V-043 and 15V-285 are under a Do Not Drive advisory. Owners of these vehicles are advised not to drive their vehicles until the recall remedy has been completed. Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag. The recall began on July 13, 2015. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Pontiac owners may call 1-800-762-2737. NOTE: This recall supersedes recall 14V-312 in its entirety.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Toyota Corolla matrix problems:

2006 Toyota Matrix Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2006-toyota-matrix/problems

Top 2006 Toyota Matrix Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Oxygen Sensor Failure · Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System · Bolts That Attach Front Window Glass to ...

Should I be concerned buying 2006 Toyota Matrix with 195k mileage

https://www.reddit.com/r/Toyota/comments/18htp7f/should_i_be_concerned_buying_2006_toyota_matrix/

Dec 13, 2023 ... Dead Matrixes are worth about $2000 for a parts out. https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/2003-2008-corolla-matrix-pontiac-vibe-common-problems- ...

2003-2008 Corolla, Matrix, Pontiac Vibe: Common Problems and ...

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/2003-2008-corolla-matrix-pontiac-vibe-common-problems-and-potential-buyer-thread.1343825/page-2

Jul 28, 2023 ... I have a manual and drive all highway. My mileage is ridiculously good during the summer. 2006 Toyota Matrix 2002 Mazda Miata.

New to me 2006 Matrix with 125K miles I bought for $2800 : r/Toyota

https://www.reddit.com/r/Toyota/comments/15wxg0g/new_to_me_2006_matrix_with_125k_miles_i_bought/

Aug 21, 2023 ... Have your mechanic give the car a once-over, since oil leaks are a problem with the Matrix. ... Any issues with the lack of physical volume knob?