2009 Toyota Matrix

The 2009 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback known for its reliability and practicality. Engine options include a 1.8L inline-4 (132 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.4L inline-4 (158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic (1.8L engine), and a 5-speed automatic (2.4L engine). Owners often praise the Matrix for its fuel efficiency, spacious cargo area, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland interior and road noise.

Engine

1.8L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue exhaust smoke (though less common), and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings has been reported to resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (engine rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump may fail, leading to coolant leaks and potential overheating. Symptoms include coolant loss, engine overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 1.8L, some 2.4L engines experience excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Piston ring replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (engine rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Actuator Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing intelligent (VVTi) actuator can sometimes malfunction causing engine rattling, poor fuel economy, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVTi actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (1.8L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement can help. More severe cases might require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $200 (fluid flush), $800 - $2000+ (valve body/transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (2.4L Engine)

• No Issues Found

Manual Transmission (Both Engines)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise emanating from the rear of the vehicle, can increase and decrease in volume depending on road speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Driver’s Side Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent operation or complete failure of the driver’s side power window.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Combination Meter (Instrument Cluster) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The speedometer, tachometer, or other gauges may stop working or display incorrect readings. The backlighting may also fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the combination meter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Hatch
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the license plate area, rear window seal, or along the bottom edge of the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of the hatch in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair using dashboard repair kits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the repair method and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Toyota Matrix generally suffers from issues typical of vehicles of its age. The most concerning problems relate to engine oil consumption, which can be costly to repair. Electrical issues and rust are also common complaints. While the Matrix is known for its reliability, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed.