2004 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.
Social links
Common 2004 Toyota Matrix problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Toyota Matrix, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Problems:
- The 2004 Toyota Matrix has been reported to suffer from engine issues, including ticking and rattling noises while driving, which can lead to engine failure.
- Owners have experienced loud grinding noises, hesitation while shifting, and no fifth gear in manual models, indicating transmission problems as well.
- Transmission Issues:
- Manual transmission models of the 2004 Toyota Matrix have been prone to problems like loud grinding noises, shifting hesitation, and the absence of the fifth gear.
- Some owners have reported erratic shifting, whining noises, and transmission hesitation, all indicative of transmission system faults.
- Reliability Concerns:
- The 2004 Toyota Matrix, being part of the first generation, has faced reliability issues related to both its engine and transmission systems.
- While the 2004 model has shown some improvement compared to the 2003 version, it still exhibits similar problems, albeit to a lesser extent.
- Sudden Acceleration:
- A significant issue reported with the 2004 Toyota Matrix is sudden acceleration, where the vehicle unexpectedly speeds up while driving at slow speeds.
- This problem has led to safety concerns as braking has been ineffective in stopping the sudden acceleration, sometimes resulting in accidents.
These common problems with the 2004 Toyota Matrix highlight issues related to engine reliability, transmission performance, and sudden acceleration, which have been reported by owners and should be considered by prospective buyers when evaluating this particular model year.
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 2004 Toyota Matrix last?
300k miles
without a doubt the most reliable engine ever built. If the maintenance schedule was followed from new, a Matrix should last well over 300k miles.
Are Toyota Matrix a reliable 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.
Are Toyota Matrix expensive to fix?
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.
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 long does a 2004 Toyota Matrix last?
without a doubt the most reliable engine ever built. If the maintenance schedule was followed from new, a Matrix should last well over 300k miles.
Is Toyota Matrix a reliable 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.
Are Toyota Matrix expensive to fix?
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.
2004 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:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Toyota Matrix vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Toyota Matrix
The NHTSA has received 138 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota Matrix. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Toyota Matrix vehicles.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- VIN: 2T1KR32E74C
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE RAISING OR LOWERING THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW, THERE WAS A CLICKING AND RATTLING SOUND HEARD. THE WINDOW ALSO SEEMED TO LOOSER THAN NORMAL. THE CONTACT BECAME AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V162000 (VISIBILITY) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED OR NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-20
- VIN: 2T1KR32E04C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL WILL SOMEONE GET TOYOTA TO REPAIR MY CAR? I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET MY AIRBAG HAZARD REPAIRED SINCE 2014 RECALL CAME OUT. NO SUCCESS TO DATE. MEANWHILE FORCED TO DRIVE POTENTIAL BOMB. IT APPEARS TOYOTA IS GIVING PEOPLE THE RUN-AROUND. I STAYED ON THE LINE FOR GREAT LENGTH OF TIME AND WAS TOLD TO CALL BACK LATER AND CUT OFF. DEALER IS NOT CALLING BACK. ANY HELP WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED, THANK YOU, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-24
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2T1KR32E44C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY, THERE WAS A SLOW UP, AND I BRAKED, BUT STOPPED RIGHT AT THE REAR BUMPER OF THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. HOWEVER, ANOTHER CAR WAS COMING BEHIND ME AND COULDN'T STOP, OR DIDN'T NOTICE THAT TRAFFICE HAD STOPPED. HE PUSHED ME INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. AT THAT MOMENT, WHICH WAS NOT A SEVERE FRONT END HIT, I SAW FIRE, AN EXPLOSION, AND THE AIRBAG BLEW OUT THE ENTIRE DASH ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, AND FLEW TO THE BACK SEAT BEHIND THE DRIVER'S SIDE. ALSO, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. METAL WAS FLYING OUT OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG IN THE FRONT. WE COULD NOT BELIEVE THE DAMAGE THAT RESULTED FROM SUCH A SOMEWHAT MINOR ACCIDENT. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR WAS TOTALED WHICH HAS BEEN A STRAIN ON US! NOW, ABOUT 30 DAYS AFTER THE ACCIDENT, WE JUST RECEIVED A CARD IN THE MAIL TELLING US OF THE RECALL. WE HAD NO IDEA THERE IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH AIRBAG RECALLS! TODAY, I CHECKED ONLINE FOR THIS PROBLEM, AND FOUND MANY SITES DESCRIBING THE ISSUES. HOWEVER, MY CAR IS NOT EVEN ON THE RECALL LIST!!! I WAS IN THE CAR ALONE AND WAS AFFECTED BY THE ACCIDENT, HOWEVER, I DREAD TO THINK WHAT WOULD HAVE OCCURRED IF I HAD A PASSENGER WITH ME. I AM INCLUDING SOME PICTURES.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-01
- VIN: 4C168935
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. I'VE BEEN RECEIVING RECALL NOTICES FOR THIS VEHICLE FOR YEARS. I HAVE BEEN ATTEMPTING TO HAVE THREE ISSUES RESOLVED, ONLY ONE OF WHICH IS THE TAKATA AIRBAG PROBLEM. I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR THE REPAIRS AT THE NEAREST TOYOTA DEALER TO ME (ABOUT A 2.5 HOUR-RT DRIVE FROM MY HOME) FOR THE PAST YEAR+, BUT I AM REPEATEDLY TOLD THAT THEY ARE AWAITING THE PART(S) FOR THE TAKATA AIRBAG REPAIR. TO MAKE THINGS WORSE, I CONSTANTLY RECEIVE FLYERS FROM TOYOTA URGING ME TO HAVE THE REPAIRS DONE ASAP. I WOULD LIKE TO. BUT APPARENTLY, TOYOTA IS HAVING PROBLEMS GETTING THE PARTS TO THEIR DEALERSHIPS. IN THE MEANWHILE, I'M DRIVING A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CAR.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-13
- VIN: 2T1LR32E84C
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL NOT ADDRESSED BY THE MANUFACTURER IN A TIMELY MANNER. RECALL NUMBER: 08V162 FROM 2008, RECALL STATUS IS INCOMPLETE. LEADING TO POWER WINDOWS COMPLETELY IMMOVABLE. MANUFACTURER FAILED TO REMEDY THESE RECALLS IN A TIMELY MANNER.
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. WHILE DRIVING 3 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING AND CAUSED A CRASH. THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. IT WAS UNKNOWN IF THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BECAUSE THE CONTACT COULD NOT REMEMBER. MOTTER AUTO REPAIR OF OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA WAS MADE AWARE OF THE CRASH AND REPAIRED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND THE PASSENGER DOOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE CRASH. IN ADDITION, THE FAILURE RECURRED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS. WHILE DRIVING 2 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING AGAIN. THERE WAS NO CRASH AND THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING 2 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S GARAGE DOOR. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE LEFT LEG AND LEFT HAND, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DAMAGED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-27
- VIN: 2T1KR32E94C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. HOWEVER, THE INTERIM RECALL NOTICE STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-02
- VIN: 2T1LR32E24C
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET A RECALL 15V043 DONE SINCE JAN/FEB THIS YEAR AND I KEEP CALLING THE DEALER AND GETTING TOLD THEY HAVE NEVER BEEN SENT THE PARTS EVER. I ALSO HAVE THE AIR BAG RECALL 15V285 AND THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IVE CALLED THEM REGARDING THIS RECALL AS WELL. WTF DO THEY NEVER GET PARTS NOW? WHATS REALLY ANNOYING IS I KEEP GETTING LETTERS IN THE MAIL REGARDING RECALLS AND THIS LAST ONE SAYS "WHY HAVEN'T WE HEARD FROM YOU?" EVEN THOUGH IVE CALLED MULTIPLE TIMES.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-16
- VIN: 2T1KR32E84C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-29
- VIN: 2T1LR32E54C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. I WAS TOLD BY A LOCAL PORTLAND, OR TOYOTA DEALER THAT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR THE TAKATA INFLATOR RECALL ARE BACK-ORDERED FOR AN INDEFINITE 6-12 MONTH PERIOD AND WARNED THAT IT COULD POSSIBLY TAKE EVEN LONGER. TOYOTA CORPORATE CUSTOMER SERVICE CONFIRMED THAT TIMELINE BY SPEAKING WITH A DIFFERENT PORTLAND, OR TOYOTA DEALER. TOYOTA FURTHER INFORMED ME THAT I CANNOT HAVE A PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT UNTIL THE TAKATA INFLATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED. TOYOTA HAS BEEN VERY UPFRONT AND HELPFUL IN ATTEMPTING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE, WHICH IS COMMENDABLE, BUT I'M FILING THIS VEHICLE SAFETY COMPLAINT BECAUSE 6-12 MONTHS FOR A SAFETY RECALL REPAIR DOES NOT QUALIFY FOR BEING DONE IN A "TIMELY MANNER" AND NOT BEING ABLE TO HAVE A PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT FOR UP TO A YEAR WILL BE VERY DIFFICULT AND PROBLEMATIC. TO BE CLEAR, THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IN MY VEHICLE HAS NOT DEPLOYED.
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-04
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS BACKING DOWN MY DRIVEWAY WHEN MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED-THE BRAKES AND STEERING ALSO WENT OUT-I CRASHED INTO A BANK ON ONE SIDE OF THE ROAD, THEN THE CAR SWUNG AROUND AND I ENDED UP SUSPENDED OVER A DITCH. I WAS FINALLY ABLE TO SWITCH GEARS AND TURN THE CAR OFF
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-20
- VIN: 2T1LR38E94C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I TOOK MY CAR TO THE TOYOTA DEALER TO FIX THE AIRBAG RECALL ON 8/31/2015 AND 1/20/2016. AFTER FIXING THE AIR BAG, I HEAR SOME KIND OF NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE DASH BOARD NEXT TO AIR BAG. I MENTIONED IT TO THE DEALER AND HAVE THEM LOOK AT IT BUT THEY MENTIONED ITS NOTHING. I STILL HAVE THAT NOISE COMING OUT FROM THERE. I;M WORRIED. LOOKS LIKE THEY DIDNT REPLACE THE AIRBAG INFLATOR PROPERLY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-18
- VIN: 2T1LR32E84C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-01
- VIN: 2T1KR32E24C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-09
- VIN: 2T1KR32E04C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED ANY FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-11
- VIN: 2T1KR32EX4C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE ENGINE BURNS EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL AND HAS NOW STARTING MAKING WHAT APPEARS TO BE EITHER FAULTY LIFTER OR CAMSHAFT NOISES. THE MATRIX BURNS AT LEAST 1 QUART OF OIL FOR EVERY 1000 MILES DRIVEN. I DO REGULAR MAINTENANCE AND MONITOR THE OIL LEVEL WEEKLY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-04
- VIN: 2T1KR32E24C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 04/04/16*LJ UPDATED 05/14/18*JB *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-12
- VIN: 2T1KR32E64C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM TOYOTA ABOUT A RECALL CONCERNING MY VEHICLE. IN THIS LETTER, IT STATES THAT MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP IS STOCKED ( WITH A SUB-WIRE HARNESS AND SRS ECU ) AND READY TO COMPLETE MY REPAIR. I SHOWED UP TO MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP ON 12/12. I WAS TOLD THAT THE PARTS NEEDED ARE NOT ACTUALLY IN STOCK AND NEEDED TO BE ORDERED. POSSIBLY TAKING UP TO TWO WEEKS. AFTER POINTING OUT THE DIFFERENCE IN WHAT WHAT THEY ARE TELLING ME VERSUS WHAT THE NOTICE STATES, I WAS DISMISSED. THIS RECALL IS A VERY IMPORTANT RECALL THAT RECEIVED MUCH PRESS DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE AIRBAGS MAY DEPLOY WITHOUT WARNING, CAUSING INJURY. MY MAIN COMPLAINT IS WITH THE DEALERSHIP'S OVERALL CONCERN WITH THE RECALL PROCESS. WHEN I SPOKE TO THE SERVICE MANAGER, I WAS TOLD I WASN'T UNDERSTANDING THE NOTICE COMPLETELY. TO REMEDY THIS SITUATION, I WOULD LIKE SOMEONE TO CONTACT JOE MYERS TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN HOUSTON TO SEE IF THEY ARE INDEED HANDLING THIS TYPE OF RECALL PROPERLY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-27
- VIN: 2T1KR32E04C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-16
- VIN: 2T1LR32EX4C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-13
- VIN: 2T1KR32E04C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TLA* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIMEFRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. ...UPDATED 01/20/16 *BF 03/19/18 *JB; 05/15/18*JB
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-12
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2T1KR32E94C
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER SAID THE STEERING TOTALLY LOCKED WHILE BEING DRIVEN. HER & HER BOYFRIEND COULD NOT GET THE STEERING WHEEL TO TURN AT ALL. THEY WERE NOT SPEEDING BECAUSE IT WAS ON WET ROADS. THEY BOTH SUFFERED MILD CONCUSSIONS & MY DAUGHTER HAS A SEVERE NECK SPRAIN. AFTER SEEING THE CAR, IT WENT OFF THE ROAD & ROLLED 2 OR 3 TIMES IT'S TOTALED, I'M SURPRISED THEY'RE NOT IN ICU! I DID SOME RESEARCH & ALMOST 1000 MATRIX'S HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN!! I DON'T KNOW WHY THERE ISN'T A RECALL. IT SEEMS TOYOTA ISN'T ALL THAT SAFE & DOESN'T CARE ABOUT IT'S CUSTOMERS AT ALL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-27
- VIN: 2T1LR38E54C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-07
- VIN: 2C1LR32E13C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-18
- VIN: 2T1KR32E74C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
2004 Toyota Matrix recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2004 Toyota Matrix.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING 662,178 MY 2003-2004 COROLLA, COROLLA MATRIX AND PONTIAC VIBE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER WINDOWS. THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER DOOR GLASS BOLTS MAY LOOSEN AND COME OFF, CAUSING THE DOOR GLASS TO SEPARATE FROM THE WINDOW REGULATOR. DUE TO THE COMPONENTS BECOMING LOOSE AND POSSIBLY RATTLING, AN ABNORMAL NOISE MAY BE HEARD FROM THE DRIVER AND /OR FRONT PASSENGER DOOR WHEN OPERATING THE POWER WINDOWS.
- Consequence: THE DOOR GLASS MAY SEPARATE FROM THE WINDOW REGULATOR, BIND AND SHATTER DURING OPERATION OF THE POWER WINDOWS, CAUSING DRIVER DISTRACTION AND/OR INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER DOOR GLASS BOLTS WITH NEWLY DESIGNED BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 16, 2008 TO TOYOTA OWNERS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 21, 2008, FOR PONTIAC OWNERS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
- Manufacturer: ANZO USA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
Negative 2004 Toyota Matrix car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota Matrix car reviews
-
The car requires large tires, but they allow the vehicle to run smoothly on the road. I do have one concern, though - the check engine light.
-
I'm so glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your car! It sounds like it's been a reliable and comfortable ride for you, even on long trips. It's impressive that after 60000 miles, you haven't had any problems and it still performs just as well as the day you bought it. Following the maintenance requirements is definitely a smart move for long term reliability. Thank you for sharing your positive experience!
-
I've owned my Matrix for almost four years now, and I must say, it's the first car I've ever considered keeping beyond four years. I'm disappointed that the AWD option has been eliminated, as it has been super reliable through several New England winters. As a nurse, I have to get to work no matter the weather, and it has never let me down. The car is fun to drive and gets great mileage, considering that it's a small AWD SUV. I've transported furniture, bikes, and all sorts of luggage in it. As a scrapbooker, I can carry all of my 'stuff' as well as that of a friend in it, and there's still room to spare when we go away for scrapbooking weekends. I've never been attached to a car before this one. I absolutely love it!
-
Hey there! If you're thinking about getting the paint protection package, I would suggest skipping it and using Nu Finish instead. As for the AWD model, it might not be necessary unless you live in a northern climate where it can handle the snow. Just my two cents!
-
I bought my car last November and I still love it just as much as the day I bought it. As someone who needs the cargo space of an SUV for my large dog, but also values the fuel economy of a car, this Toyota is the best! Its small size and great turning radius make it perfect for running around town.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota Matrix problems:
2004 Toyota Matrix Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2004 Toyota Matrix Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Oxygen Sensor Failure · Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System · Bolts That Attach Front Window Glass ...
Q&A: 2004 Toyota Matrix XRS - Common Problems & Short Shifter ...
Dec 17, 2012 ... I don't see how they adjusted the cables because the shift cable on your car really are not adjustable but anyway what it sounds like is you ...
2004 Matrix Early Transmission Failure: Corolla also? | Toyota ...
Jul 13, 2012 ... It seems that many Matrix owners are having problems with a faulty transmission bearing which necessitates the transmission needing to be ...
2004 Toyota Matrix Q&A: Common Problems, Rough Idle & More
Jan 9, 2013 ... Toyota matrix 2004 rough idle at "drive" and when "reverse" engaged. These 1ZZFE are known to run rough. This is after - Answered by a ...
XRS issues | Toyota Nation Forum
Jul 28, 2013 ... If I could have I would have gotten an 03-06 Toyota Matrix XRS with the 2zz. It's got the same engine but has the functionality of a wagon ...
Other years of Toyota Matrix
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota Matrix?
Kristofer Stokes 2024-09-26
I have owned this car and it has been a great source of fun. Although there were some minor issues such as a defective battery in the first week and some fit and finish problems, I still enjoyed driving it. However, after 3 years and 37k miles, my clutch went out. Upon researching online, I discovered that there were hundreds of reported problems with early transmission failure in 03 and 04 Matrix models. Many of these reports were found on the Edmunds forums, but unfortunately, Toyota has not yet acknowledged the issue. Now, at 79K miles, I am experiencing issues with the clutch and transmission. Despite this setback, I have had previous standards that have gone over 100k miles.
Jamey Moen 2024-09-12
This is the first Toyota I've ever owned. My husband and I bought this car because we wanted a small, fuel-efficient car to get us around town with the capability of expanding cargo space when needed. However, I have been disappointed with some of the features of the car. Both rear door handles have broken within the last two years, and the replacement cost for each door handle is $200. The rigid metallic coating of the interior door handles has loosened and actually cut my fingers. Additionally, various other compartments (while clever and convenient) have broken or become loose, and the bumper pops loose easily and can drag.
Gavin McKenzie 2024-08-14
I bought this car with the intention of keeping it for a long time, given Toyota's reputation. This was my first Toyota and unfortunately, I had a few issues with it. I had to spend a considerable amount of money on maintenance and repairs, which was unexpected. I recently traded it in with only 83,000 miles on it, as I did not want to spend any more money on repairs. Some of the unusual problems I encountered were rusting in the neck to gas tank area, which prevented the gas cap from sealing and caused the car to fail state emission tests. The total cost of repair was over a thousand dollars. Additionally, I experienced transmission failures after 80,000 miles on the Matrix, which cost over 3,000 dollars. Despite these issues, I appreciate the experience and will consider Toyota in the future.
Akeem Glover 2024-07-18
We absolutely loved the sporty look of this vehicle! It's perfect for short trips, running errands, and hauling. The mileage is good, and although there is a paint issue with the hood that Toyota won't own up to (missing layers of paint after 2 years of ownership), we still think it's a great car. We do agree that the sound system could be better, but considering the price range, it's not too bad. We did notice that the driver's seat is more comfortable than the passenger's seat for long trips, so that's something to keep in mind. Overall, we think this model has a lot of potential, and with a bit more attention to quality, it could be perfect (maybe it already is!). We also think that adding bottle water holders in the door would be a great addition to this model. As for the backseat beverage holders, we think they could be improved to match the quality of the rest of the car.
Orion Wisoky 2024-06-08
The car may have difficulty passing on a hill and may not always engage the passing gear. Additionally, the pickup is poor, making it challenging to get onto a highway safely. The radio quality is also lacking, with unclear bass.