engine problem
10.0
really awfulTypical Repair Cost:
$3,100.00
Average Mileage:
86,305 miles
Number of complaints:
3 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (3 reports)
Helpful Websites About 2003 Toyota Matrix engine failure
2008Mar 18
Matrix XR 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,028 miles
I bought this Matrix new 5 years ago at Cavender Toyota in San Antonio. I had all scheduled maintenance done at the dealership. This was a great little car. Last Tuesday night, 2 days before I had an appointment for 90,000 mile maintenance, I noticed a clicking sound in the engine when I accelerated. I took the car the next day to the dealer. I was told that the engine would have to be torn down and rebuilt and they weren't sure what exactly the problem was, but basically the engine was shot. I could have the repair done for around 5K, or cut my loses and sell the car. I don't understand how the engine could have gone so bad so fast. At the 85,000 mile oil change, there was no problem.The attitude that I have gotten from the dealership is that this is mechanical failure, and while it is rare in a Toyota, it does happen. To add insult to injury, I had to pay $69.50 to get this bad news. I sold the car and bought a Hyundai. If I would have bought a Hyundai 5 years ago, engine failure would have been covered under their 100,000 mile warranty. Guess I'll be taking my 2007 RAV4 elsewhere for servicing, if I even keep it. I was a loyal Cavender & Toyota customer, but not now.
2007Sep 23
(reported on)Matrix XR 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 60,886 miles
On 6 September 2007, my wife was driving the 2003 Matrix, when without warning the motor started to make an excessive noise in the engine, she pulled over a called me, I met her where she was and verified the noise sounded Terminal, called for a Wrecker, had car towed to the dealer, 2 days later, I was informed that the engine had thrown 3 Rods, Mileage on the car was 60,886, just out of Warranty, spent the next week in Toyota USA arbitration, they deem lack of lubrication caused the damage and washed their hands of the engine repair.
On 21 September, I paid almost $4500, for what was supposed to be a new short block. Well, the new short block has as much road grime as the Transmission, and 52 miles later the engine was "whistling", Opened the hood to check the engine, the coolant was 1/2 Gallon low, the oil is 1/2 quart low and a couple of loose bolts, one of which mounts the accelorator cable/bracket to the engine. Called the dealer, the service Department was closed, but the receptionist recommended I go buy antifreeze and oil at the local supermarket. I once again, Called Toyota USA, created another ticket with them.. currently impatiently waiting for Monday morning when I can go to the Dealer/Service Department..
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 18
Matrix
very surprised to find out this is a problem with toyotas. thought i bought a better car. replaced one motor, because of oil consumption and ultimately engine destruction, apparently with another having same problems. first road trip experienced use of one quart of oil per 300 miles. not a good ratio. probably will go back to buying dodges.
burninoil
Lexington, KY, USA
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