MotorDeets

Toyota Matrix problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Matrix from 2002 to 2013: 1,575 owner complaints and 68 recalls across 12 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2003 (304), 2005 (302), 2009 (266). Best fuel economy: 29 mpg combined (2013).

Toyota Matrix
Photo: Elise240SX · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Airbags682
Transmission & drivetrain184
Speed control / throttle162
Electrical127
Engine & cooling105
Engine70
Tires70
Steering66

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200202–
2003630428
2004616728
2005530229
2006723429
2007614429
200866929
20091126628
2010116528
201141629
20123529
20133129

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Toyota Matrix.

eManualOnline Download (PDF), keep forever

Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.

Most $25–$78, one-time
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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yr
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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
Check Toyota Matrix manual

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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Toyota Matrix?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2003 (304), 2005 (302), 2009 (266).

How many recalls has the Toyota Matrix had?

Across 2002–2013, NHTSA lists 68 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).