possibly getting a new matrix, but...

[barry sanders]

Ok, so I might be getting a new Matrix. I'm either gonna get XR or XRS. I've done some research into the Matrix, and I've found a lot of good things about it, but nothing much negative. So, what I'm asking is for everyone to drop their bias for the Matrix for just a second and let me know of the negatives about the car. Engine noise? Cost of replacing brake pads a little high? Etc. Anything negative about the car will help. I'm not trying to be a jerk or anything, because as of right now, I'm probably going to get a Matrix within a month, but, I'd like to know EVERYTHING about the car before I drop the $20G's.

Thanks for any help.

-Barry Sanders
#20 Running back for the Lions.
2nd place all-time in rushing yards gained.

[Dredd2099]

in my matrix
have her for about a year already
so far so good
there are some rattle and squeek from the dash or whereever else in the car for that matter that some people are experiencing
for the year that i got the matrix, i only experienced it about 5 times
thats about all the negative i can think of right now

[rattus]

I've had a Matrix for about 8 months now. I do get that rattle sound, I think it comes from the hood release level down below the steering wheel. It was a lot worse when I got the car, now I get it about twice a month.

[rattus]

Oh, and engine noise is really loud on the highway since the engine is built to rev. On my XRS, the sound has a really awesome tone to it, but it is pretty loud, but not offensive like those when you put big fart can on a civic.

[mistamatrix]

Damn! THE Barry Sanders?! Welcome!

First of all, I don't think the engine is noisy at all at hwy cruising speeds. If you're used to driving econo cars like Corollas or Civics then you'll find that the exhaust is a little noisier but not that annoying.

A lot of owners were complaining about a 'scratchy' noise when playing their CDs in the stock stereo. Personally, I never had that problem.

Changing/replacing brake pads will be about average in cost. If you didn't know, the Matrix (XRS. Not sure about the XR) shares the same brakes as the Celica GTS. Excellent stopping power.

I have the XRS 6speed and it's definitely a fun car to drive especially w/ the VVTL-i engine and high revs.

The negative things about this car are really minor.

[sroines]

I haven't experienced the scratchy noise from the stereo, there is teh occasional rattle from the dash.....the back door is kinda a pain in the a$$ to close sometimes but just give it a good push and it goes. Other than that, I think it is a great car! the awd model ownz in the winter with snow....really sticks to the road.....I have heard my engine doing a little tick tick here and there though

[barry sanders]

great, thanks for the help guys! i'll probably be getting an XRS automatic, black with black rims and black tinted windows. Automatic, because I live in the DC/metropolitan area, and hate, absolutely HATE manual's. But....if Toyota would come out with an automatic-clutch like the old VW Beetle's, I might have to change my mind on the good ol' 6-speed

Thanks again for da help!

[CTmatrixXRS]

well it all depeds on what you are looing for i have a XRS and i love it lots of room but it a automatic i wish i kind of got a six speed but the auto works in my book top end on the high way it really gets up the bracking system is preety much out of this world and if you are looking to do it up with after market parts they have pleaty of stuff and as far as engine noise the reving engine at high rpms who does not love that. beleve me if you are looking for a fun car to drive and get lots eye catcher and question this is the car

[mistamatrix]

Werd.

[barry sanders]

Update!

It's a sad day. Sadly, I could not afford a new vehicle at this time. Straight out of school, loans up the wazoo, and a new car payment? Sorry, but not right now.

So, instead I got a 2000 Pontiac Grand AM GT V6 RamAir. Black (of course) with 4-doors. I'll post some pics, but you guys probably won't care, what with this being a matrix forum and all.

Whatever, and weerrrrrrrrrrrrdddd.

[98wrangler]

Those designers of pontiac should be fired asap! Hire me and I could comeup with better stuff.

[TRDragoon]

Originally posted by 98wrangler
Those designers of pontiac should be fired asap! Hire me and I could comeup with better stuff.

are you comparing from the Vibe and the matrix

sorry to hear that BarrySanders, but V6!? thought you couldn't afford cuz of loan...... but anyways, good luck with your new ride