Matrix Advice

[SupremeCutlass]

I am a soon-to-be college student, and want a matrix. I was hoping a current owner could give me advice on previous problems, what they wish they bought with it, what they didn't, etc. How good of a car is it?
I'm a musician, so I need something that can take me to and fro with some instruments and some laundry/whatever in the back. Any advice appreciated!

[matrix04rocket]

I am a soon-to-be college student, and want a matrix. I was hoping a current owner could give me advice on previous problems, what they wish they bought with it, what they didn't, etc. How good of a car is it?

I have a 2004 XR with a little over 22,000 miles. Thus far, I have only had to do maintaince on it, changed oil, rotate tires, etc. Also, I changed my brake and transmission fluid over to sythetic after a couple thousand miles (got to let the thing break in). All in all, it has been very very functional.

I love the 6 cd in dash "Premium" radio (the sound is pretty good for stock). I wish the thing had an iPod dock. As for the base/XR vs. the XRS, the main difference (other than the hole in your pocket book) is the drive train. The XRS gets more power at 6000 rpms, however I have had no problems with scoot in the base.

The clutch and throw (on the 5 speed) is very sensitive (I wouldn't have it any other way). The steering is tight (which is also a good thing). After 22,000 miles, the air filter and cabin filter needed changing. Also, I was a little surprised that the performance started to decrease from the stock brakes (I have been accused of being an aggressive braker [I would love slotted rotars]) The tires will probably last until 40,000 or so then they will need to go too.

All in all, if you want to make the Matrix the dream machine that puts even the most respectable sports cars in the dust, expect to sink some serious dough into it. Toyota has given the foundation but left it there. If you are looking for an awesome daily driver that gives quite a bit of punch with very little/no repair and reasonable maintaince, Toyota has given you what you are looking for. I have been very happy with the thing and would buy it all over again if I had the chance (and started the same wish list of sport tuning upgrades).