2012 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 2012 Toyota Matrix problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2012 Toyota Matrix, several common problems have been reported:
- Premature Brake Wear: Some owners have experienced fast wear of brake pads and rotors in the 2012 Toyota Matrix. Reports indicate that brake components needed replacement at relatively low mileage, which is unusual as brake rotors are expected to last longer. Driving with worn-out brakes can result in whining noises during braking and reduced braking power. Replacing brake disc and pad kits is the recommended solution for this issue.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensors: The 2012 Toyota Matrix has been reported to have issues with faulty oxygen sensors. This problem can cause the check engine light to illuminate, leading to a rough engine idle, misfires, and poor performance. The lack of data from the oxygen sensor to determine the air to fuel mixture can result in engine-related issues. Replacing oxygen sensors is a common fix for this problem, with replacement parts costing between $30 to $110.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2012 Toyota Matrix highlight important issues that can affect the performance and reliability of this vehicle. Addressing these issues promptly and with the appropriate repairs can help maintain the car's functionality and longevity.
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 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.
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.
Are Toyota Matrix cheap to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $396 which means it has excellent ownership costs.
Are there any problems with a Toyota Matrix?
The Matrix is reliable, but it still has common issues such as faulty oxygen sensors, premature brake wear, excessive oil consumption, and window regulator problems. The Matrix's practicality and reliability make it an attractive option in the used-car market.
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.
2012 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:
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Toyota Matrix vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Toyota Matrix complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Toyota Matrix.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-01
- VIN: 2T1KUEE7CC8
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL. REPEATED ATTEMPTS FOR FIXING AIRBAG UNRESPONSIVE FROM TOYOTA DEALERS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-27
- VIN: 2T1KU4EEXCC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V006000 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION IN JANUARY OF 2018. THE DEALER (EASTERN SHORE TOYOTA 29732 FREDRICK BLVD, DAPHNE, AL, 36526) STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-26
- VIN: 2T1KE4EEXCC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - RECEIVED NOTICE IN JANUARY, 2017 AND TO DATE "NO REMEDY" FOR THE AIRBAG RECALL ON MY VEHICLE. RECALL ADVISES TO AVOID HAVING PASSENGER IN FRONT SEAT. I AM UNABLE TO TRANSPORT ANYONE UNLESS IN THE BACK SEAT AND AM CONCERNED WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO ME IF THE AIRBAG GOES OFF WHILE AWAITING TOYOTA'S REMEDY. PLEASE ADVISE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-19
- VIN: 2T1KU4EEXCC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA MATRIX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V006000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL 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. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-05
- VIN: 2T1LE4EE6CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA MATRIX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE NOISES UNDERNEATH THE HOOD AND SHUT DOWN. THE OIL AND SERVICE ENGINE INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND LATER TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. THE NEXT DAY, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 135,000.
2012 Toyota Matrix recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Toyota Matrix.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Corolla, 2011-2013 Matrix, 2012-2018 Avalon, and 2013-2018 Avalon Hybrid vehicles. During certain crashes, the air bag electronic control unit (ECU) may malfunction, possibly disabling the deployment of the air bags and/or seat belt pretensioners.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, air bags and/or seat belt pretensioners that do not deploy as intended may increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ECU and install a noise filter between the air bag control module and its wire harness, as necessary, free of charge. Owners were notified of the safety risk beginning March 2, 2020. A second letter notifying owners of the remedy repair will be mailed between March 16, 2020 and June 27, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB03, 20TA03 and 20TA05.
Negative 2012 Toyota Matrix car reviews
Positive 2012 Toyota Matrix car reviews
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It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your Infiniti QX4 for the past 8 years! However, with the rising gas prices in Canada, it's understandable that you're looking to scale back. Your new 2010 Matrix with the 1.8 liter and sport package sounds like a fantastic choice, especially with the optional hood deflector and side moldings to protect against door dents. It's impressive to hear that you're already getting 37 mpg or 7 liters per 100 km, which is much better than the average. I'm sure it will only get better as you continue to break it in and use synthetic oil. Overall, it sounds like you made a smart and practical decision. I hope you continue to enjoy your new car for years to come!
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As they are no longer produced, Corollas make for a great used car value. I absolutely love driving my Corolla - it's great on gas and always puts a smile on my face. This is actually my third Corolla model and second manual transmission, so you could say I'm a bit of a fan! I was a bit disappointed when they discontinued the Matrix, as it was such a cute car that always got lots of compliments. I bought my Corolla back in 2009 and have already put 75000 miles on it, but I'm hoping to get another 75000 out of it if possible!
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I really like the neat exterior design of this vehicle! Although, I think it could benefit from having the upper rear spoiler like the 2010 Matrix XRS model. Nonetheless, it still looks rather stylish! I'm impressed with the upgraded 2.4 liter power of the AWD S model, which is similar to the previous Matrix XRS, the Scion XB, and the previous Toyota Camry models. The 16-Valve/Dual VVT-i & 4 cyl in-line type auto transmission is also a great feature. It's worth noting that many of the new Toyota's come standard with common features such as traction control, vehicle stabilizer control, ABS, EBT, & smart stop technology braking system.
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The ride may feel a little stiff, but the gas mileage is okay.
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The car has great steering and maneuverability. I'm so glad I bought this vehicle! It's roomy enough for my 6'4
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Toyota Matrix problems:
Toyota Matrix 2009-2014: pros and cons, common problems
Nov 17, 2022 ... Common problems include a bad rear oxygen sensor, a failing starter, a bad alternator, minor oil leaks, corroded battery terminals, failing ...
2012 Toyota Matrix Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2012 Toyota Matrix vehicles have 1 known recalls. The most common recall is: Air Bag Electronic Control Unit Malfunctions Disabling Air Bags And Seat Belt ...
Toyota Matrix: What years to avoid? : r/MechanicAdvice
Dec 3, 2023 ... Heard the Matrix is just a Corolla hatchback. What years should I avoid? Iirc the 2.4L engines on these had oil burning issues. Not sure if they ...
Toyota Matrix Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Top 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 ...
2003-2008 Corolla, Matrix, Pontiac Vibe: Common Problems and ...
Jul 28, 2023 ... bmninada. · Registered. 07 Toyota Corolla S. Joined Dec 12, 2012. ·.
Other years of Toyota Matrix
Are you having problems with your 2012 Toyota Matrix?
Ernest Bashirian 2024-11-02
This is the first time I bought a new car and was disappointed: 1. Blind spots in front and back. 2. Poor radio. 3. Way too much road noise. 4. Uncomfortable ride (I can feel every little bump in the road). 5. Recall for safety reasons.
Lisandro Berge 2024-10-27
Although we bought the car new and changed the oil on time, we were surprised when it overheated after only 78000 miles. However, I have always been a Toyota owner and this experience was certainly an exception. Despite the setback, I am confident in the quality of Toyota vehicles and will continue to be a loyal customer.
Angelo Walker 2024-05-12
I've owned a Honda CRV, a Nissan Pathfinder V6, and a Saturn VUE AWD V6. While the Honda and Nissan had comparable gas mileage, the Saturn had much better gas mileage. However, I would not recommend considering this vehicle.
Alex Collins 2024-03-13
I think I may have overpaid for the 2010 Matix S. It has basic features and lacks any exciting extras. Unfortunately, the car seems to make a dragging sound and the tires have already worn out before reaching 15,000 miles. Additionally, the blind spots and uncomfortable driver's headrest make it difficult to drive, especially on long trips. The telescope steering wheel also seems to be positioned too close to the engine. Despite these issues, I still use it for work.
Stefan Kertzmann 2024-01-13
The second generation of the Toyota Matrix has larger exterior dimensions that are instantly noticeable, with design cues that are predictable yet still stylish. The interior, which is all Pontiac (as the Matrix shares a platform with the Vibe), is straightforward and functional. While the driver's view may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, the build quality is solid and reliable. The car's only drawback is the blind spot created by the large C-pillar, combined with an awkward angle and size of the third window, which makes it difficult to see out of the rear. Unfortunately, fuel economy on the 2.4 has been disappointing.