2003 std. matrix doesn't crank - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

b03matrix · 02-04-2008, 10:50 AM

Hello,
I just bought 2003 Matrix standard 5 speed. The problem is when turn the key to start, the instrument panel light on but the engine doesn't crank at all (4 out of 5 times) . But when it does the engine start and run fine.
I would like to have any suggestion to fix this problem I also like to know where are the location of starter relay, clutch start switch and oxygen sensor (bank 1 sensor 1 and sensor 2).
Thank you,

ruther · 02-04-2008, 03:33 PM

Is the clutch in all the way?

I just got a 2004 Matrix 5-speed and unless I have the clutch down ALL the way to the floor it will not start either.

***mistamatrix*** · 02-04-2008, 08:20 PM

^Good point. In most cases, it's simply the 'button' on the floor that isn't depressed by the clutch that doesn't allow the car to start. Make sure your floor mats are out of the way as well.

Smar969905 · 02-04-2008, 11:54 PM

i have heard of the clutch sensor buttons wearing out in manuals before, so what happens is that you push the clutch in and try to start but it doesnt work all the time, and you have to stomp on the thing a few times, or really seem to grind the clutch pedal into the carpeting on the floor. assuming that this is the problem, there are 3 ways to 'fix' it. Option 1: take it back to the dealer (assuming you are under warranty still) and demand that they replace it. Option 2: if you know what you are doing, replace the button yourself. Option 3: put a small jumper wire in place to short out so you never have to worry about pressing the clutch pedal in to start the car. do note though that this is a 'safety' feature, because it keeps you from starting your car while it is in gear with the clutch engaged, meaning that the motor will turn. if you want to short out the button, go look on www.matrixowners.com for instructions (actually search for it, not start a new thread, because i remember reading the instructions on that at one point)

b03matrix · 02-05-2008, 08:02 AM

I did not see the clutch sensor near the pedal. I push the clutch few times to the floor then it starts. According to the manual, the starter relay maybe bad. So far, I could find it yes. I'll adjust the clutch to see if it is better or not.
Thank you all for the reply.

b03matrix · 02-05-2008, 04:26 PM

I found the safety switch close to the floor. I bend the piece metal which contact to the switch, from the clutch pedal down (can't move the switch upward). Now the engine crank and start right away.
Thank for your help,
BN

Swabby · 02-09-2009, 12:13 PM

b03matrix - can you please post a photo of the sensor and let me know where i can hunt for this and do the same as what you did?

i am have 03xrs with this problem. my factory mat is pushed into the floor so hard that i think i will eventually have a hole on my floor. lol. i am not using any winter mat, as this may contribute to this problem even more.

thanks.

b03matrix · 02-09-2009, 01:51 PM

Hello Swabby,
This http://matrixowners.com/?showtopic=68152 shows how to do it.

Swabby · 02-09-2009, 03:03 PM

Thanks b03. I will try it out this weekend. Still working fine and how long did it take you?

b03matrix · 02-10-2009, 10:51 AM

Max. 15 minutes

anita · 02-22-2009, 08:51 AM

its your starter

Corolla_reps · 02-25-2009, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smar969905

i have heard of the clutch sensor buttons wearing out in manuals before, so what happens is that you push the clutch in and try to start but it doesnt work all the time, and you have to stomp on the thing a few times, or really seem to grind the clutch pedal into the carpeting on the floor. assuming that this is the problem, there are 3 ways to 'fix' it. Option 1: take it back to the dealer (assuming you are under warranty still) and demand that they replace it. Option 2: if you know what you are doing, replace the button yourself. Option 3: put a small jumper wire in place to short out so you never have to worry about pressing the clutch pedal in to start the car. do note though that this is a 'safety' feature, because it keeps you from starting your car while it is in gear with the clutch engaged, meaning that the motor will turn. if you want to short out the button, go look on www.matrixowners.com for instructions (actually search for it, not start a new thread, because i remember reading the instructions on that at one point)

or put a wire to the starter and to connect to the battery..