CarComplaints.com Notes: The Toyota Matrix is the mechanical twin of the Pontiac Vibe.

Both models were a joint GM-Toyota venture, manufactured together at a NUMMI production facility in Fremont, CA. Only the heating & A/C systems are different.

8.7

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$2,290
Average Mileage:
107,100 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. replace or rebuild transmission (3 reports)
2004 Toyota Matrix transmission problems

transmission problem

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2004 Toyota Matrix Owner Comments

problem #3

Dec 192011

Matrix

  • Manual transmission
  • 98,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

It seems that many Matrix owners are having problems with a faulty transmission bearing which necessitates the transmission needing to be replaced prematurely.

We had to replace our five-speed manual transmission on our Toyota Matrix at 98,000 miles! I sent a certified letter to the president of Toyota Motor Corp. North America. I was told since there is no recall, I would not be compensated. The cost was $3,100!

Please sign my petition at http://www.change.org/petitions/unbearable-transmission-bearing Hopefully if there are enough signatures, Toyota will do a recall.

Thank you!!

- unbearable, Nashville, TN, US

problem #2

Sep 292010

Matrix XR 1.8L 4-cylinder

  • Manual transmission
  • 93,206 miles

The clutch on my 2004 Matrix went at 150,000kms. Brutal. Although this is a consumable, I really didn't expect to be replacing the clutch at such an early stage of the vehicle's life. In talking to the transmission guy I was told that Toyota undersized this clutch (likely using the same one for vehicles that are smaller than the Matrix & with less power, for many years).

Next time Toyota, size the clutch to the vehicles weight, power and use. Come on.

- Mike P., Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

problem #1

Jan 042010

Matrix XR 1.8L

  • Manual transmission
  • 130,000 miles

The manual transmission failed on my 04 Matrix. Transmission had to be replaced. No fifth gear, loud grinding sounds. Googled "Toyota Matrix manual transmission failures" found a web site at Edmunds with over 350 posting!!!! They don't sell many Martixs, and way fewer with the manual. This car is nothing special in the fit and finish department either. My 95 Neon was a little better. Has lots of squeaks and rattles. Bought car new, lots of highway miles. It has had an easy life.

- Dan R., Owatonna, MN, US

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