The 2003 Toyota Matrix is a versatile hatchback/wagon hybrid born from Toyota's partnership with General Motors. Sharing a platform with the Toyota Corolla, it offered a blend of practicality and sporty styling. Model years ran from 2003-2014. Key trims included the base model, XR, and XRS. New, it ranged roughly from $15,000 to $20,000. Its popularity stemmed from its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, Toyota reliability, and affordability, making it a favorite for young drivers and small families alike. The XRS model, with its high-revving engine, added a sporty appeal.
The Good
The 2003 Toyota Matrix excels in reliability and fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking low running costs and dependable transportation. Its hatchback design offers cargo versatility. Performance is adequate for daily driving, with the XRS offering a more engaging experience appealing to those seeking a bit of fun. The comfortable ride and spacious interior contribute to its overall value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2003 Toyota Matrix include potential oil consumption issues, especially in higher-mileage examples. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters. The base model's engine can feel underpowered. Premature failure of the catalytic converter has also been reported. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these issues. Check for excessive rust, oil leaks, and catalytic converter issues before purchasing.
2003 Toyota Matrix: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.8L 4-cylinder (1ZZ-FE)
- 1.8L 4-cylinder (2ZZ-GE) - XRS Trim
- Horsepower:
- 1ZZ-FE: 130 hp @ 6000 rpm
- 2ZZ-GE: 180 hp @ 7600 rpm (XRS)
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 1ZZ-FE: 29 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 2ZZ-GE: 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway (XRS)
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 1ZZ-FE: 9.0-10.0 seconds
- 2ZZ-GE: 7.0-8.0 seconds (XRS)
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, CD player, and cloth upholstery.
- XR: Adds features such as cruise control, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels (optional).
- XRS: Performance-oriented trim with the higher-output engine, sport suspension, sport seats, and unique styling cues. It often includes power moonroof.
2003 Toyota Matrix Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Mid-Size Station Wagon |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2965 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 60.60 inches |
| Overall Length | 171.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 69.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 102.40 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $18,445 |
| Invoice Price | $16,691 |
| Delivery Charges | $485 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Toyota Matrix Have?
The 2003 Toyota Matrix, while generally reliable, has some frequently reported problems. A significant concern is excessive oil consumption, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles with the 1ZZ-FE engine. This issue can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. Catalytic converter failure is another common problem, often triggered by the oil consumption issue or other engine problems. Rust is also a consideration, especially in areas with road salt use during winter. Check the undercarriage, rocker panels, and wheel wells for rust.
Recalls for the 2003 model year have included issues related to airbag systems and potential fuel leaks, so checking the vehicle's recall history is essential before purchase. The XRS model, with its 2ZZ-GE engine, is generally more robust but requires more frequent and careful maintenance, including valve adjustments. Some owners have also reported issues with the mass airflow sensor. Long-term reliability is generally good with proper maintenance, but addressing the oil consumption and rust issues is crucial for preserving the vehicle's lifespan. Regular servicing, including oil changes and rust prevention measures, are key to minimizing these problems.
Recalls for the 2003 model year have included issues related to airbag systems and potential fuel leaks, so checking the vehicle's recall history is essential before purchase. The XRS model, with its 2ZZ-GE engine, is generally more robust but requires more frequent and careful maintenance, including valve adjustments. Some owners have also reported issues with the mass airflow sensor. Long-term reliability is generally good with proper maintenance, but addressing the oil consumption and rust issues is crucial for preserving the vehicle's lifespan. Regular servicing, including oil changes and rust prevention measures, are key to minimizing these problems.
How long will the 2003 Toyota Matrix last?
With proper maintenance, a 2003 Toyota Matrix can easily reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles, potentially providing 15-20 years of service. Owner data suggests that regular oil changes (every 3,000-5,000 miles), timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires), and addressing any mechanical issues promptly are crucial. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses include rust susceptibility, oil consumption (particularly in the 1ZZ-FE engine), and potential catalytic converter failure over time. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. Addressing rust concerns early is key for long-term chassis integrity.
Positive Owner Reviews
Love my Matrix
Efficient use of interior space. Better than a small SUV. Love the rears seats that fold completely flat, the rear hatch window that can open, the front seat that can fold down. Plenty of space for extra tool storage in the tire compartment. No repairs needed except for brakes, tires and a battery. Runs and looks like new after 179,000 miles and 13 years
Shirley's Car
After owning a Camry and Rav4, the 2003 Toyota Matrix XR is the best in performances, low maintenance, Reliability, comfort while traveling long distance, etc
Lucyspin
The Matrix has it all. Utility. Comfort. Good gas mileage. Fun to drive. Safety features. If it hadn't needed a new transmission (after 17 years and over 190,000 miles) I would still be driving it. In my opinion, this is the best CUV hatchback ever made. I wish Toyota still made them.
Negative Owner Reviews
disgruntled costumer
I bought this car because of Toyota's reputation for a reliable car. I'm so disappointed in the car. It is spacious and has nice features. However, sometimes I think the car is built like a model car--put together tongue and groove. I've had problems with the front spoiler breaking and the side rim is falling off-why?? Ok so I have 103,000 miles. I've now had to replace the rack and pinion--never before on my Ford cars!!! Now, I have an oil leak and it might be related to the engine. I was told that it has to do with a faulty engine part. Toyota's engines are supposed to last at least 200,000 miles if not more. This is ridiculous.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Toyota Matrix features relatively basic technology compared to modern vehicles. Built-in tech included a standard AM/FM radio with a CD player. Some trims offered optional upgrades like premium audio systems and cruise control. Driver-assistance features were minimal, limited to anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard. Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were available as an option on some trims.
Entertainment options were limited to the audio system; navigation and advanced infotainment systems were not available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific ratings. The 2003 Matrix generally performed well in crash tests for its era, offering adequate protection in frontal and side impacts. However, it lacks modern driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, which are now common in newer vehicles. Optional features included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and fog lights. The focus was on providing affordable and reliable transportation rather than cutting-edge technology.
Entertainment options were limited to the audio system; navigation and advanced infotainment systems were not available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific ratings. The 2003 Matrix generally performed well in crash tests for its era, offering adequate protection in frontal and side impacts. However, it lacks modern driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, which are now common in newer vehicles. Optional features included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and fog lights. The focus was on providing affordable and reliable transportation rather than cutting-edge technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Sand Pearl
Lunar Mist Metallic
Spectra Blue Mica
Radiant Red
Super White
Silver Streak Mica
Absolutely Red
Graphite Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
Light Gray
2003 Toyota Matrix Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2003 Toyota Matrix ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000 depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Matrix has depreciated significantly over the years, as expected for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free examples command a premium), mileage (lower mileage is better), maintenance history (documented service records are valuable), and trim level (the XRS models are generally more desirable). Toyota's reputation for reliability has helped the Matrix retain some value compared to its competitors.
2003 Toyota Matrix Cost of Ownership
The 2003 Toyota Matrix is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and safety record. Fuel economy is good, especially with the base engine. Maintenance costs are also relatively low, as parts are readily available and affordable. However, potential repairs related to oil consumption and catalytic converter failure can add up. Long-term ownership costs are reasonable if regular maintenance is performed and potential issues are addressed promptly. Overall, it represents a cost-effective transportation option.
2003 Toyota Matrix Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
27 gallons
City Mileage
25 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
30 miles/gallon
2003 Toyota Matrix Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 Toyota Matrix Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Anzo Combination Headlamp Assemblies Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Which Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Anzo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 9, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Anzo USA AT 909-468-3688.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Headlamp Assemblies Manufactured BY Anzo and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:glass, Side/Rear
Recall date
2008-04-10
Recall no.
08v162000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling 662,178 MY 2003-2004 Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Equipped With Power Windows. THE Driver and Front Passenger Door Glass Bolts MAY Loosen and Come Off, Causing THE Door Glass TO Separate From THE Window Regulator. DUE TO THE Components Becoming Loose and Possibly Rattling, AN Abnormal Noise MAY BE Heard From THE Driver and /OR Front Passenger Door When Operating THE Power Windows.
Consequence
THE Door Glass MAY Separate From THE Window Regulator, Bind and Shatter During Operation OF THE Power Windows, Causing Driver Distraction And/Or Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Driver and Front Passenger Door Glass Bolts With Newly Designed Bolts Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 16, 2008 TO Toyota Owners. THE Recall Began ON MAY 21, 2008, FOR Pontiac Owners. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-888-270-9371 or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668.
Notes
Toyota Recall NO. 80a/Gm Recall NO. 07273.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date
2013-01-30
Recall no.
13v029000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix Vehicles and 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. THE Supplemental Restraint System (Srs) Circuits ARE Susceptible TO Internal Shorting. THE Electrical Short MAY Create AN Abnormal Current Flow and Increased Heat Which CAN Damage THE Circuits. This Could Result IN AN Inadvertent Deployment OF THE Front Airbags And/Or Seat Belt Pretensioners.
Consequence
Inadvertent Deployment OF THE Airbags or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury and THE Possibility OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Re-Notify Their Owners WHO Have Already HAD Their Vehicles Repaired With A Noise Filter, BUT DID NOT Receive A NEW Airbag Control Module, and General Motors Will Re-Notify Theirs. Dealers Previously Installed A Supplemental Harness Containing AN Electrical Filter Between THE Airbag Control Module and ITS Wire Harness, Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Replace THE Airbag Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 13, 2013. THE Manufacturer HAS NOT YET Provided A Schedule FOR Second Notices. FOR More Information, Toyota Owners MAY Call 1-800-331-4331 and Pontiac Owners MAY Call 1-800-620-7668.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2015-05-13
Recall no.
15v286000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) Notified THE Agency ON MAY 13, 2015, That They ARE Recalling 2005-2007 Lexus SC, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sequoia, and Pontiac Vibe, and 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra Vehicles That Were Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Florida, Along THE Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa. ON June 16, 2015 Toyota Expanded THE Recall TO Cover AN Additional 769,055 Vehicles, Including Certain Model Year 2002-2004 Lexus SC, Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix, Toyota Corolla, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Tundra Vehicles, AS Well THE Vehicles Covered BY THE MAY 13, 2015 Notification IN THE Portions OF Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas That Were NOT Previously Included. THE Inflators IN THE Front Passenger AIR Bags ARE Susceptible TO Rupture IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating THE Deployment OF THE Front Passenger AIR Bag.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix Vehicles That ARE Recalled Under Both 15v-043 and 15v-286 ARE Under A DO NOT Drive Advisory. Owners OF These Vehicles ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Completed. Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Side Front AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota Began THE Recall ON July 13, 2015. Pontiac Vibe Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-762-2737. GM Began THE Recall ON June 29, 2015. Note: This Recacll Supersedes Recall 14v-655 IN ITS Entirety. FOR Vehicles Located IN THE U.s. States NOT Listed Above, Please SEE Toyota Recall 15v-285 Which Covers All Other U.s. States.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2015-01-28
Recall no.
15v043000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Vehicles Manufactured December 28, 2001, TO MAY 2, 2004, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix Vehicles Manufactured January 6, 2002, TO April 29, 2004, 2003-2004 Avalon Vehicles Manufactured June 5, 2002, TO December 20, 2004, and 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Manufactured January 18, 2002, TO April 27, 2004. DUE TO Electrical Noise, A Component IN THE AIR BAG Control Module MAY Fail, Causing THE Front AIR Bags, Side AIR Bags, And/Or Seatbelt Pretensioners TO Deploy Inadvertently While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Consequence
Inadvertent Deployment OF THE AIR Bags or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners Increases THE Risk OF AN Injury or Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE AIR BAG Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 24, 2015. Toyota Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. GM Issued AN Interim Notification TO Owners ON March 27, 2015. THE Recall Began ON August 24, 2015. Pontiac Owners MAY Call 1-800-620-7668. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recalls 13v-029 and 14v-147. Vehicles That HAD A Noise Filter Installed AS THE Remedy FOR ONE OF Those Campaigns Need TO Have THE AIR BAG Control Module Replaced Under This Campaign.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2015-05-13
Recall no.
15v285000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) Notified THE Agency ON MAY 13, 2015 That They ARE Recalling Certain Model Year 2004 Sequoia Vehicles Manufactured August 18, 2003, TO August 19, 2004, and 2003-2004 Tundra Vehicles Manufactured March 18, 2003, TO August 25, 2004. ON June 16, 2015, Toyota Expanded THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 1,270,468 Vehicles, Including Model Year 2002-2003 and 2005-2007 Sequoia, 2005-2006 Tundra, 2003-2007 Corolla, 2003-2007 Corolla Matrix, 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe and 2002-2007 Lexus SC Vehicles. This IS TO Address A Safety Defect IN THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR BAG Inflator Which MAY Produce Excessive Internal Pressure Causing THE Inflator TO Rupture Upon Deployment OF THE AIR Bag. This Recall Addresses Both THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bags That Were Originally Installed IN THE Vehicles, AS Well AS Replacement AIR Bags That MAY Have Been Installed AS Replacement Service Parts. A Replacement AIR BAG MAY Have Been Installed, AS ONE Example, IF A Vehicle HAD Been IN A Crash Necessitating THE Replacement OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix Vehicles That ARE Recalled Under Both 15v-043 and 15v-285 ARE Under A DO NOT Drive Advisory. Owners OF These Vehicles ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Completed. Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR Bag. THE Recall Began ON July 13, 2015. Toyota Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Pontiac Owners MAY Call 1-800-762-2737. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-312 IN ITS Entirety.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2018-01-09
Recall no.
18v025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON January 9, 2018, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) Notified Nhtsa That They ARE Recalling 14,585 Model Year 2010-2012 Yaris Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, NEW York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. AS OF January 30, 2018, Toyota IS Additionally Recalling 3,347 Model Year 2010 Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Located IN States Listed Above. Also Included IN This Recall Filing IS 98,194 Model Year 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla Matrix Vehicles, Located Throughout THE U.s., That Previously Received A ?like-for-like? Interim AIR BAG Inflator Replacement. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Assemblies With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE G0R (Zone B), and H0A (Zone C), J0A (matrix Zone A), J0A (matrix Zone A), J0A (matrix Zone A).
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2003 Toyota Matrix Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2003 Toyota Matrix Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Toyota Matrix is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Toyota Matrix Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2003 Toyota Matrix competed with vehicles like the Pontiac Vibe (its GM twin), Mazda3, Honda Civic Si (hatchback), and Nissan Sentra. Compared to the Vibe, the Matrix offers similar reliability and features, as they share the same platform and mechanicals. The Mazda3 offers a sportier driving experience but may not be as reliable long-term. The Honda Civic Si provided better performance but was typically more expensive. The Nissan Sentra offered a lower price point but lacked the Matrix's versatility and overall refinement. In terms of reliability, the Matrix is generally on par with or better than most of its competitors, except perhaps the Honda Civic. In terms of price, the Matrix was competitively priced within its class.
Alternatives to consider include a newer Toyota Corolla or Matrix for improved safety features and fuel economy, or a Honda Civic hatchback for similar versatility and reliability. If performance is a priority, a newer Mazda3 or Volkswagen Golf might be a better choice. However, for a reliable, affordable, and versatile used car, the 2003 Toyota Matrix remains a solid option, especially if well-maintained.
Alternatives to consider include a newer Toyota Corolla or Matrix for improved safety features and fuel economy, or a Honda Civic hatchback for similar versatility and reliability. If performance is a priority, a newer Mazda3 or Volkswagen Golf might be a better choice. However, for a reliable, affordable, and versatile used car, the 2003 Toyota Matrix remains a solid option, especially if well-maintained.
Ranks #40 Hatchback
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
| 40 | 2003 Toyota Matrix | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Toyota Matrix a Good Hatchback?
The 2003 Toyota Matrix is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and practical hatchback. It's well-suited for students, young professionals, or small families needing cargo space and good fuel economy. Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition and price. A well-maintained, rust-free example with a documented service history is a good buy. The XR trim offers a good balance of features and affordability. The XRS is appealing for those seeking a sportier driving experience, but requires more specialized maintenance. Avoid examples with excessive rust or signs of neglect. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to assess potential issues. While you can't buy it new, a carefully chosen used 2003 Toyota Matrix can provide years of reliable service.
Wytse on January 20, 2025
Bought this car in 2003 and it is still going strong inBought this car in 2003 and it is still going strong in 2025 after more than 180000 miles. Lots of interior space. Outstanding reliability, never let me down in 20+ years. Needed some replacements of consumable parts: shocks, exhaust, radiator. Above all, it is still a pleasure to drive!
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Fred on April 14, 2021
Good even at 18 years old!Good room and handling. Ride is stiff. Gas mileage good. Noisy engine. Reliable as most Toyotas. Has the flip up rear hatch window that has all but disappeared.
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Love my Matrix on November 6, 2020
NO repairs 179,000 miles. Still runs strongEfficient use of interior space. Better than a small SUV. Love the rears seats that fold completely flat, the rear hatch window that can open, the front seat that can fold down. Plenty of space for extra tool storage in the tire compartment. No repairs needed except for brakes, tires and a battery. Runs and looks like new after 179,000 miles and 13 years
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Shirley's Car on August 23, 2020
My best car yet!After owning a Camry and Rav4, the 2003 Toyota Matrix XR is the best in performances, low maintenance, Reliability, comfort while traveling long distance, etc
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Lucyspin on August 5, 2019
Best car. Period.The Matrix has it all. Utility. Comfort. Good gas mileage. Fun to drive. Safety features. If it hadn't needed a new transmission (after 17 years and over 190,000 miles) I would still be driving it. In my opinion, this is the best CUV hatchback ever made. I wish Toyota still made them.
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pxj36 on May 4, 2019
Most reliable car I have owned.This car meet all my needs. The interior space is great! I was able to ship a sofa by using this car! It drives smoothly on high way and street. On street, 22 miles per gallon...
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Mrsmoreno on July 18, 2018
I?ve owed this car for 3 years and love it!It?s very dependable!! It doesn?t have all the luxury of other cars but for my 3 kids and I it?s been great! I can really relay on this car to never leave me stranded and get great gas mileage. Only needed a few repairs nothing major.
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MatrixFan on July 10, 2018
Low-Maintenance and AdaptiveI?ve owned 3 cars before this one and the Matrix has required the least amount of maintenance. I rarely have things break down. I just give it its basic checkups like oil changes and tire rotations and it?s good to go. What I love the most about this car is that it gets the gas mileage of a Corolla with usability like a compact SUV. The rear seats fold down completely flat and the passenger seat folds flat too. It?s made lumberyard runs easy as well as hauling moving boxes.
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Dave on January 31, 2018
Still going strongBought my 2009 in early 2008. My wife drove it till a year ago, now my daughter who just graduated from college has it. Replaced water pump and alternator. Other than that just routine and scheduled maintenance items done. 146,000 miles and still runs nicely. Still quiet. Still no rattles and suspension seems tight. Never touched the air conditioning and still blows cold.
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Reliable car on January 18, 2018
Most reliable car I have owned.For this car it?s low mileage. Garage says these cars run over 200,000 miles . It?s economic in use of gasoline.
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Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.