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Toyota · Known Issues

2014 Toyota Matrix Problems: 3 Known Issues

2014 model year · 3,200+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,200+ owner reports, the 2014 Toyota Matrix has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 2AZ-FE Engine Excessive Oil Consumption ($0-$3,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Rear Hatch Strut Failure with 1,800 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $30 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Matrix Engine1
  • Matrix Body/Panels2
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Body/Panels2
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 3 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003
Community reported
1,400 owners

On the 2009-2014 Toyota Matrix 2AZ-FE, the 2.4L 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder in the 2nd-gen Matrix consumes oil excessively due to defective piston ring design, often 1 quart per 1,000-2,500 miles. This is the same issue affecting Camry, RAV4, and other Toyota models with the 2AZ-FE. Toyota extended the warranty under enhancement ZE7.

This issue also affects: Lexus NX, Toyota Avalon, Toyota Camry

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level drops between changes
  • Need to add oil every 1,000-2,500 miles
  • Blue smoke from exhaust on acceleration
  • Fouled spark plugs
  • Low oil pressure warning

How to Fix

Request Toyota oil consumption test at dealer. If consumption exceeds 1 qt per 1,200 miles, piston and ring replacement under warranty enhancement ZE7 (10 years/150,000 miles from original purchase date). Updated pistons with redesigned oil control rings resolve the issue. Use 0W-20 synthetic and monitor levels.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Toyota 04004-11728 genuine Matrix piston-ring repair kit

    ring, gasket and oil-nozzle repair kit for the bulletin-directed engine rebuild after the consumption test fails Fitment/availability: Matrix-specific 2AZ-FE repair kit named by T-SB-0094-11; use only for an applicable 2009-2013 VIN and …

    ToyotaPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 1,400 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence1,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,800 owners

On the 2003-2014 Toyota Matrix, the rear hatch lift support struts lose their gas charge, causing the hatch to fall or not stay open. This is a common issue on all Matrix model years, typically failing between 5-8 years of age. A falling hatch is a safety hazard.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear hatch won't stay open
  • Hatch falls down when released
  • Hatch opens slowly or partially
  • Need to prop hatch open manually

How to Fix

Replace both hatch struts (sold in pairs). Genuine Toyota 68960-02061 or aftermarket equivalents from StrongArm (6117), Sachs, or Monroe. Simple DIY replacement with a flat screwdriver to pop off the ball socket clips. Takes less than 10 minutes. Always replace both struts at the same time.

Typical repair cost:$30 - $80

Research This Issue

Based on 1,800 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence1,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2003-2014 Toyota Matrix, matrix rear hatch gas struts lose pressure over time, causing the hatch to fail to stay open and drop unexpectedly. This is a common issue on both generations, typically occurring between 5-8 years of age. The failing struts create a safety hazard as the heavy hatch can strike the person loading or unloading the cargo area. Cold weather accelerates strut failure.

This issue also affects: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Solara, Toyota RAV4

Common Symptoms

  • Hatch won't stay open on its own
  • Hatch drops when released
  • Hatch opens slowly or only partially
  • Worse in cold weather

How to Fix

Replace both rear hatch struts as a pair ($30-$60 for a pair of aftermarket struts). The replacement is a simple 10-minute DIY job requiring only a flathead screwdriver or small pry bar to pop the ball studs off. Use OEM Toyota struts for longest life or Sachs/StrongArm aftermarket for a budget option. Replace every 5-7 years as preventive maintenance.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Stabilus 4B-6162RU liftgate support pair

    first-generation hatch-support replacement pair Fitment/availability: 2003-2008 Toyota Matrix liftgate; two-support pair Fitment/availability: Live direct product page showing Add to Cart

    Walmart marketplace / Lift Supports Depot
  • PM1081 liftgate support pair

    second-generation hatch-support replacement pair Fitment/availability: 2009-2014 Toyota Matrix liftgate; two-support pair Fitment/availability: Live direct product page showing Add to Cart

    Walmart marketplace

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipStrongArm brand struts from RockAuto are $25 for a pair and last 5+ years. One of the easiest DIY jobs on the Matrix — no tools needed, just pop off the old clips and snap on new ones.
Typical repair cost:$30 - $100

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Corolla, 2011-2013 Matrix, 2012-2018 Avalon, and 2013-2018 Avalon Hybrid vehicles. During certain crashes, the air bag electronic control unit (ECU) may malfunction, possibly disabling the deployment of the air bags and/or seat belt pretensioners.

Campaign #20V02400017/01/2020

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009-2011 Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007-2011 Lexus ES350, and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350 and 2007-2008 Lexus ES350 vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Matrix problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,200+ owner reports, the 2014 Toyota Matrix has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2AZ-FE Engine Excessive Oil Consumption, Rear Hatch Strut Failure, Rear Hatch Lift Strut Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Toyota Matrix reliable?

The 2014 Toyota Matrix has 3 known issues documented across 3,200+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 2AZ-FE Engine Excessive Oil Consumption. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Matrix problems?

Repair costs for known Toyota Matrix issues range from $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2AZ-FE Engine Excessive Oil Consumption, typically costs $0-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2009-2014 Toyota Matrix 2AZ-FE Engine Excessive Oil Consumption?

The 2.4L 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder in the 2nd-gen Matrix consumes oil excessively due to defective piston ring design, often 1 quart per 1,000-2,500 miles. This is the same issue affecting Camry, RAV4, and other Toyota models with the 2AZ-FE. Toyota extended the warranty under enhancemen… Repairs typically run $0-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2003-2014 Toyota Matrix Rear Hatch Strut Failure?

The rear hatch lift support struts lose their gas charge, causing the hatch to fall or not stay open. This is a common issue on all Matrix model years, typically failing between 5-8 years of age. A falling hatch is a safety hazard. Repairs typically run $30-$80. Severity: low.

What is the 2003-2014 Toyota Matrix Rear Hatch Lift Strut Failure?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 3,200+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #16V34000023/05/2016

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, VENZA AND MATRIX PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF A CAMPAIGN OF 3.8 MILLION OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES ANNOUNCED IN 2009 FOR THE SAME ISSUE (SEE 09V-388).

Campaign #10V02300027/01/2010

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Campaign #10V03600003/02/2010

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Campaign #10V03500003/02/2010

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

Matrix rear hatch gas struts lose pressure over time, causing the hatch to fail to stay open and drop unexpectedly. This is a common issue on both generations, typically occurring between 5-8 years of age. The failing struts create a safety hazard as the heavy hatch can strike th… Repairs typically run $30-$100. Severity: low.