2002 Toyota Matrix problems
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 2002 Toyota Matrix problems
The Toyota Matrix, produced by Toyota Motor Corporation, is known for its generous cargo space and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has common problems that vary depending on the year model. Here are some of the issues reported by owners of the 2002 Toyota Matrix:
- Faulty Oxygen Sensors: The oxygen sensors of the 2003 to the 2011 year models tend to break, which causes the check engine light to illuminate. This issue also causes a rough engine idle. This problem is caused by the engine control unit (ECU) lacking data from the oxygen sensor to determine what air to fuel mixture to use, which causes engine-related issues such as a rough engine idle, misfires, and poor performance.
- Premature Brake Wear: Some owners of the 2010 Toyota Matrix have reported that their brakes wear out fast. One owner has reported that both his brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced after only traveling 24,000 miles. Another owner experienced a similar issue where the rear set needed to be replaced at 27,000 miles, while the front required replacement at 35,000 miles. This is unusual because brake rotors should last for more than 50,000 miles. Driving with worn-out brakes will result in whining noises during braking and less braking power. Toyota Matrix brake disc and pad kits typically cost around $50 to $120.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Many Toyota Matrix owners have reported that their engine consumes too much oil. There have been 34 reports of this issue on CarComplaints.com and it’s been happening to owners of 2003 to 2011 Matrix models. They usually discover this issue during oil changes, where they notice the oil levels are low. There have also been a few instances where the oil consumption was so severe that it triggered the check oil light in the dashboard to illuminate. If oil levels are left unchecked, then it can cause serious engine problems such as overheating and excessive engine wear, which is expensive to repair. One fix for this issue is to replace worn piston rings in the engine. Improper seals can cause oil to seep into the combustion chamber, which lowers oil levels. Engine sludge can also cause oil levels to drop, so it’s recommended that you replace your oil filter often.
- EVAP System Problems: The EVAP system, known as the evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system, prevents gasoline fumes from escaping into the atmosphere. However, problems with the EVAP pose a serious challenge for Toyota Matrix users. Defects in the evaporative emission system result in the lit of the Check Engine Light. Diagnosing the cause of this problem can be tricky. Common causes include faulty gas caps or a charcoal canister failure. If you observe any issues with your EVAP system, make haste to consult a certified mechanic for a proper diagnosis of the problem. Failure to correct this problem as soon as possible could lead to further damage to your Toyota Matrix.
- Sudden Acceleration: Sudden acceleration was a common problem reported in the 2006 Toyota Matrix and led to recalls. Users complained that their Matrix suddenly accelerated even while driving at low speeds, and slamming the brakes didn’t really solve the situation. The problem was described as “sudden RPM increase/vehicle acceleration due to accelerator pedal sticking” and Toyota had to pay a hefty sum of $1.2 billion to settle the challenge in court, after a major recall.
These are some of the common problems reported by owners of the 2002 Toyota Matrix. It is important to note that these issues may not affect all vehicles of this model and year. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these problems or mitigate their effects.
What is the common problem of 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 can 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.
Are Toyota Matrix cheap to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $396 which means it has excellent ownership costs.
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.
What is the common problem of 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.
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 Matrix expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Matrix is $396, compared to an average of $526 for compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
Is Toyota Matrix a good car to buy?
The Toyota Matrix has an overall reputation for dependability, too. RepairPal gives the Matrix a 4.5 out of 5.0 dependability rating, and the 2012 edition has an average annual repair cost of just $448. The 2007 edition has an even lower average annual repair cost of $287.
2002 Toyota Matrix car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Matrix problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Toyota Matrix vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Toyota Matrix complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Toyota Matrix.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-28
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WAITING FOR LIGHT TO TURN GREEN, ANOTHER DRIVER ALERT ME THAT THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. I IMMEDIATELY OPEN THE HOOD AND THERE WAS FIRE BETWEEN ENGINE AND FIREWALL. THE VEHICLE WAS A LEASED 2002 TOYOTA MATRIX XRS. MY INSURANCE COMPANY DECLARED IT A TOTAL LOSS. I TRIED TO CONTACT TOYOTA AND DEALER SEVERAL TIMES FOR ANSWERS IN REGARDS TO ISSUE BUT I WAS GIVEN THE SAME ANSWER, FIRES WERE NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY, WHICH IS I UNDERSTAND BUT THEY NEVER MAKE AN EFFORT TO MAKE INVESTIGATION TO WHAT CAUSED THE PROBLEM. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-20
- VIN: 2T1KY32E33C
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR THE 25,000 MILES SERVICE, AND ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK THE CLUTCH BECAUSE IT WAS SLIPPING. DEALER DID NOT CHECK THE CLUTCH. CONSUMER DROVE THE VEHICLE OUT OF THE GARAGE WITH THE CLUTCH SLIPPING. LATER, HE HAD TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK THE SECOND TIME. THIS TIME HE ASKED DEALER SPECIFICALLY THAT THE CLUTCH BE CHECKED. DEALER TOLD CONSUMER THAT THAT THE CLUTCH WAS DEFECTIVE. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Toyota Matrix problems:
Q&A: Toyota Matrix XR AWD 2003 - Common Problems, Mileage ...
Jul 14, 2012 ... 2003 Toyota Matrix XR awd 1.8L, 126000 miles. No power on hills. Sluggish on level (max 40 mph) Spark plugs, replaced - Answered by a ...
2003 Matrix Manual Transmission issues | Toyota Nation Forum
Nov 15, 2009 ... - you might be in for some problems. 2002 Toyota Corolla S, 1.8L 1ZZ-FE 2009 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD, 2.5L 2AR ...
09 toyota matrix questions | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Dec 5, 2014 ... ... matrix is plauged with manual transmission problems. ... common problem. I don't really care to learn ... 2002 Toyota Highlander Transmission issues ...
Toyota Matrix - Those in the know please enlighten me. | Grassroots ...
My friend has a 2002. It has over 200k on it and has had no issues. And wait for it. AWD!!! This peaked my interest.
Common Toyota Matrix Problems: Q&A for 2004-2013 Models
Nov 13, 2011 ... My 2004 toyota matrix had some problems starting immediately after filling up with fuel. It would barely turn over and - Answered by a ...
Other years of Toyota Matrix
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