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 sounds like you have a great car! It's fuel efficient and travels well. Plus, the maintenance costs are low.
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I bought a 2012 Matrix 4-speed auto/1.8L brand new and have driven 1,600 miles so far. I really like it! The ride is firm but pleasant, and the cargo room is excellent with the rear seats folded down. The acceleration is decent, and it's smooth, stable, and quieter than I expected on the freeway. While the steering doesn't provide as much road feel as I would like, it's still quite acceptable. On the first tank of gas, I got 28.7 MPG (US) [8.2 L/100Km] driving around the suburbs. The only complaint I have so far is an occasional buzzing sound from the interior trim close to the passenger A-pillar, but with the cooler fall weather, the sound is hardly noticeable. I would definitely buy this car again!
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I've been driving a Civic Hybrid for five years and recently decided to explore other options. I had a great experience with my local Honda dealer's service, so I went back to see what they had to offer. While I test drove the CR-V and CR-Z, neither of them felt like the right fit for me. That's when I decided to broaden my search and check out other brands. After some searching, I found the perfect compromise for both me and my wife - the Matrix. I got my SUV and she got her sports car. It's still early, but we're both really enjoying our new vehicles. If you're in the market for a reasonably priced mid-sized SUV, I highly recommend checking out the Matrix.
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Unfortunately, I don't think they make them anymore.
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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!
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?
Furman Will 2025-04-09
The car has some great features such as a cute and fun design, cool interior controls, and a rear bumper that can withstand an impact without breaking. However, there are some areas that could be improved. The fuel economy is not great at 14 city/23 hwy. Additionally, I have experienced some issues with the car such as rattling when driving above 55mph, the radio volume no longer being speed sensitive, and difficulty starting the car. The cloth seats are also prone to staining easily. Lastly, the back seatbelts are more suitable for children than adults. Overall, the car has its pros and cons, but with some improvements, it could be even better.
Derrick Durgan 2025-04-03
Get your Matrix this May! I've driven mine for about 2000km now. While I'm not exactly jumping out of my seat with excitement, I'm not disappointed either. The car is big and sturdy enough, and the mileage is acceptable, especially compared to my old one ton Ford 5.4l truck. It's easy for larger people to get in and out of, and the roof racks can haul a lot of weight. However, they sit too far back on the car to be truly useful, so putting a ski box on the roof with the stock racks might be a bit of a challenge. The intermittent wipers could use some more adjustment options, but that's a minor issue. The light grey interior looks great, but it does stain easily with a touch. Overall, I think you'll find the Matrix to be a solid choice!
Clinton Rogahn 2025-03-25
Great job on the updated styling! The XRS model comes with a 5-speed manual (Canadian) and a 158hp 2.4 liter 16-valve VVT-i engine, which is also used in the Camry, Venza, RAV4 and Scion xB/tC. It's pretty peppy and has good fuel economy. On our last long trip, we averaged 570kms (354mi) on a tankful of 89 oc gas (87 recommended). The interior trim is simple with lots of plastic, but it's well put together. The XRS Body kit/Rear spoiler gives it a bit of a performance look, but it's not too overpowering. The flat fold-down rear seats and folding front passenger seat are great for larger cargo items. The 18-inch rims give it a stiffer ride, but it's not jarring. The radio has AM/FM/CD/Sirius XM/USB/iPod functions, and the 115V and 12V power taps are a nice touch. The ABS/TCS/EBA safety features are standard. **Update - Apr 2016:** The XRS is still going strong. At 70,000kms, the engine has signs of oil burning as oil was missing about 500ml / 0.5 quart- on the last oil change. However, there's been no lack of power since we first got the car. Fuel mileage seems to be the same, although I find I get better mileage by using higher octane fuel. The engine sounds and performs better on synthetic oil vs ordinary dino oil (I just get whatever is on sale). While the fit and finish (as compared to my old 2001 Corolla S-5M) is not very good, there are still lots of great features. Toyota seems to have cheapened out on the interior as some parts do not mate well- Dash and A Pillars seems to rub and has loose-sounding clicking noise, especially when cold. I'm noticing LOTS of road noise. I switched from the stock 18Hi there! I noticed that there are a few things that could use some attention in your car. For example, there seems to be an issue with the driver seat creaking and clicking when cornering at normal speeds, which I understand can be frustrating. Additionally, the rear hatch damper has prematurely failed and the interior gadgetry can be a bit flaky at times. However, I'm glad to hear that mechanically, your car is as good as any Toyota and you plan on keeping it for a while. I do want to bring to your attention that there are a few things that may need some maintenance, such as the rusted interior part of the Moonroof Frame and the rear brake rotors that may need to be replaced soon. Overall, I hope you continue to enjoy your updated Corolla with all its additional gadgets and nannies. Let me know if there's anything else I can help you with!Hello! It's great to hear that your car is still running well after all these years. Although you've had a few minor issues, it's good to know that the brakes and EBD are working properly and that the engine is still running smoothly. It's also great that you're taking such good care of your car by changing the oil more frequently than recommended and using synthetic oil. Keep up the good work and happy driving!
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.