2005 Toyota Matrix Consumer Reviews
Most Helpful Reviews
Positive Review
My parents bought a Matrix XR new to replace a running Camry with 250K miles. At that time, we never had a car last so long and with so few repairs. This Matrix has been even more reliable! The odometer is maxed out at 299,999 (the early ones do by design). I figure it has about 310K now. Other than a recall or two, the first repair was at 250K when the alternator light came on. I replaced it but it failed 2 more times (autozone). Free replacements. The last one seems good so far. All original parts except fluids, brake pads, filters, plugs, belt, bulbs, batteries and LH mirror. Rear brakes rotors, drums, starter, water pump, fuel pump, radiator, etc....all original. Rust near driver's side rear door but hey it lives in New England (garaged). It has lots of space and drives well. My Focus ZX3 was more fun to drive but was a manual and not as reliable as it aged. The rear tires wear unevenly and get noisy, even after an alignment but last a decent amount of miles. They don't get rotated but that never happened on other cars we owned. It is much easier to work on than my Honda Fit that is very low and tight under the hood. Based on this car, I would definitely consider a Toyota next time.
VS
Critical Review
very versatile! Love that. But, at 58K miles, I replaced: the breaks- twice, all tires - once, the serpentane belt (premature compared to other models), and all the regular maintenance. It turend out that the most annoying - and costly - fiture so far has been oxygen sensors. The check engine comes up every two days , especially in cold weather. $250/piece sensors replaced and check engine still lit... No recall, no warranty past 12 months. Dealership says that it is a pretty common defect with this model lately. But you won't hear much about it and nothing on toyota site . Would probably keep it for economic reasons, but at this point am not sure for how long.
2005 Matrix Reviews
Showing 8 of 589 reviews.
Was able to describe the make and year, but not the model. I have a Matrix. You had only TWO modes on the list, and NEITHER WERE MINE!
Everything
None
No joke, this thing is amazing. About to hit 300K with mine and fully expect it to go another 300K with routine fluid changes. Everything that's needed replacement outside of schedule was totally my fault. This baby is cherry.
I've been extremely dissatisfied with Kelley Blue Book's car valuation services over the past few weeks. The values they provide seem inconsistent and unreliable. I've been trying to get an accurate estimate for my car's worth, but the numbers keep fluctuating drastically, making it impossible to make informed decisions. This lack of consistency has caused me considerable discomfort and frustration. It's essential for such a service to offer reliable and stable valuation data, but KBB has fallen short in this regard. I hope they can address these issues and improve their accuracy to better serve their users in the future.
All-wheel drive, spacious, economic
None
The 2004 Toyota Matrix AWD is a great powerful vehicle. The vehicle provided plenty of cargo space, and it is easy to drive on the Wisconsin snow due to the all-wheel drive (AWD) power. Also, I recommend always using Toyota-recommended batteries for Toyota vehicles so you don't have to buy batteries every two or three years and try buying all-season tires for your vehicles. (Matrix does not require much care, and these vehicles last a long time.)
19 years old and very little trouble throughout its years. I have the dealership change the oil and service every 3,000 miles. Just replaced struts , brakes, shocks last year. Minor repairs throughout. Engine and transmission is steady reliable. Very fun car.
Fun to drive
Nothing
Bought three years ago back in 2020 only had to replace bushing ,alternator power steering pump and tires great car for 3 grand started out with 235000 and still going
Amazing handling, awesome to drive!
02 sensors and Catalytic Converters go bad
Chances are you are here because you are looking to buy a 2003-2008 Toyota Matrix and want to know if they are good cars. If it was taken care of yes it is a good car. I bought a Base Matrix and I am incredibly happy with it. I did not think I would ever be happy with an affordable car but here I am. The seats all fold flat which is awesome, you can store a lot more than you realize. The gas mileage even at 208k miles is over 28 mpg. It has great acceleration for an older 4 cylinder. If you can find one of these under $3,000 for sure buy it. Under $4,000 I would have a mechanic check it out but if it passes his inspection I would still buy it. Great cars and I highly recommend. I have owned over 100 cars in the last 10 years and this one has impressed me so much I had to come write a 5 star review!
Very reliable. Awesome gas mileage. Roomy hatchback. Recently replaced clutch and alternator. It is slate gray with gray interior.
