2005 Toyota Matrix

Great, reliable car!

By Lori (IA) on Friday, June 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 119,000

Pros: "28-30 mph, reliable"

Cons: "over 100,000 miles, no automatic doors/windows"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Would have kept driving the car, except I recently inherited a new vehicle. Almost hate to part with the Toyota, regardless. It's got a few dents and dings, but is in good condition otherwise."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

I just love this car!

By crod936 (CA) on Wednesday, June 12, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 77,000

Pros: "Everything that I wished for"

Cons: "steering wheel position"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car almost 6.5 yrs ago because I had close friends that had owned theirs for at least 3 years with no issues and were still happy with it, I was in the market for something reliable, comfortable, convenient, low budget, fun and that looked good. So my wishlist seemed impossible with the first vehicles I checked out, I was leaning towards imports since majority of vehicles I had owned that were domestic burnt a whole in my pocket, until I bought this car I was trading my car on average every 18 months or sometimes less. I went through 2 Ford Rangers, Oldsmobile Cutlass, Ford Mustang, Audi A4, Dodge Dakota, Toyota Corolla and a Pontiac Grand Am between '99-'06. Sadly the only car that I didn't throw my money away on was the Corolla, all the others needed plenty of maintenance or the price tag was just too high. I bought this brand new from a local dealer where I continue to do business with after visiting other Toyota dealers where they just pushed me out the door with their crooked business mentality. Went for the M-Theory Manual T and I don't regret it one bit, I spent a bit more for the extras but I've used everything that this car has to offer, I love driving near and far and this vehicle has not let me down a single time. This Matrix has been to 42 US states, up to Canada and down to Mexico with only the battery been replace after 30k covered under warranty. I can honestly say that I've never put any money besides buying a bigger size chromed rims for it. The only negatives for it are the steering wheel only tilts and the audio system is not the best but I've just never been able to replace the factory stereo. Every time I've thought about it I just can't seem to part with it. I'm too attached to this car, it's taking very good care of me and my family. I can say this is the best investment I've made when it comes to cars. I still get an average of 29mpg, the engine feels strong and the driving experience is still pretty fun, I just wish it was all wheel drive, besides that there is nothing else I can ask for. Drives great in any terrain, never been stuck so far and it's been through some rough roads. Other cars may seem like a better option but in the long run I don't think any car in this price range can beat it."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

TEN YEARS - ZERO PROBLEMS

By Sofi (IL) on Wednesday, June 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 129,000

Pros: "style, durability, economy, huge cargo space"

Cons: "one more cupholder wouldn't hurt"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I own this car for 10 years today, and I never had a problem with it. I liked it when I bought it, I love it today, and I will buy another Matrix when this one expires- I hope to keep it for some years yet. Other than regular maintenance (oil changes, fluids, wipers) and tires and brakes every 50K miles and the 100K maintenance service, she never needed special attention or expense. I have hauled tons of stuff over the years in the cargo space, and I took quite a few trips, without worry. My Matrix has no ABS, but as long as the tires are good, the braking is swift, smooth and efficient. There is no lighter and no ashtrays, but there are 2 separate outlets, plus a 110v outlet. The exterior is still bright and shinny after all these years (when I wash it, that is). The AC will need re-charging this year, as it does not blow as cold as it used to, but I guess that can be considered maintenance. Overall, I am very happy with this car and I would recommend it to anyone."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

I hate power locks and windows

By Rattlesnake (ME) on Tuesday, June 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 134,300

Pros: "Seats are comfortable. Car is trustworthy"

Cons: "I do not need quarter slots. They get dirty."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I was shocked to find out that new clients are now being coerced to buy power locks and windows when they get a new car. I was also shocked when the dealerships started sending me letters asking to buy my car. I love my crank-up windows that work without the car key to turn the engine on and I love the manual locks. I am not giving this one up, not ever and if they are in demand the factories should start making them again."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

Bought, but planned to sell. Best investment.

By Katrina (PA) on Friday, May 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 125,000

Pros: "Excellent gas mileage"

Cons: "Doesn't accelerate very quickly (4cyl)"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car knowing I would either a) keep it forever and ever, or b) sell it in a few years. I did my homework when buying this car and chose it because of it's: 1) Low VOC's after baking in the hot sun for days/hours. It never stank like plastic. 2) Reliability. It never broke down. WHen a tire started to leak, it alerted me. 3) Resale value. I kept it very clean. I owe $5000 on it. It's worth $8700 on KBB. Yessssssss 4) It's a good looking car. I don't feel frumpy- I feel cool, and know I'm safe at the same time. 5) I may never buy another car in all y life."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

nice car,98000 mi. purchased new, no problems,

By japl1111 (CT) on Sunday, May 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 98,000

Pros: "gas mileage price no big repairs"

Cons: "tire noise"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"nice car,98000 mi. purchased new, no problems,great run around car..good mileage,changed oil every 5000 miles,flop tires every 10000."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse