2004 Pontiac Matiz

The 2004 Pontiac Matiz is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. In many markets outside North America, this vehicle was known as the Daewoo Matiz. The 2004 Pontiac Matiz was only offered with a 0.8L Inline-3 engine producing around 51 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle came standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, and an automatic transmission was available as an option. Many owners appreciate its compact size for navigating city streets and parking, but some find the engine underpowered, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. Common complaints also revolve around the limited cargo space and the basic interior features.

Engine

0.8L Inline-3

• Engine Hesitation and Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may hesitate during acceleration or stall unexpectedly, especially when the engine is cold. This can be due to issues with the idle air control valve or a malfunctioning throttle position sensor.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the idle air control valve or throttle position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Poor Fuel Economy
  • Description/Symptoms: Many owners experience lower fuel economy than advertised, often linked to issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor, vacuum leaks, or a clogged air filter.
  • Solution: Replacing the oxygen sensor, addressing vacuum leaks, and/or replacing the air filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficult Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears or a grinding noise during gear changes can indicate worn synchronizers or a faulty clutch.
  • Solution: Replacing the synchronizers or the entire clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift erratically or slip between gears, indicating issues such as low transmission fluid or worn internal components.
  • Solution: Checking and refilling transmission fluid, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid) - $1500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when driving over bumps, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear can result from worn shocks, struts, bushings, or ball joints.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component depending on location
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent battery drain or failure can stem from a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Testing and replacing the battery and/or alternator, or identifying and resolving parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to roll up or down due to worn or broken window regulators.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and other body panels, particularly in regions with road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, filling, and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and warping of the dashboard due to sun exposure and temperature fluctuations.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard (difficult and costly) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2004 Pontiac Matiz, while economical, does have some common issues. Engine problems like hesitation and poor fuel economy and transmission issues such as difficult shifting and slipping can impact the vehicle’s performance. Suspension wear and electrical problems with the battery and window regulators are also prevalent. Rust can be a significant concern depending on the vehicle’s location and maintenance history. The cost to fix these issues can range from minor repairs under $100 to more extensive replacements exceeding $1000, making it important to thoroughly inspect a used Matiz before purchasing.