Used 2005 Toyota Matrix

"Over 200k miles and still going"

"This is the second Toyota I've put over 200k miles on. The first was an '87 fx16 carolla, the second is an '05 matrix XR. Its been driven in all types of weather, including ice and snow, and temps above 100F. I've never had a garage, so the clear coat is gone on the roof, but the engine is as responsive as it was the day I bought it, still gets 30 mpg and the AC runs super cold. I've never needed anything more then regular maintenance on it and a new alternator when I hit 200k. I plan on keeping it until it costs more to keep it running then it's worth. Then, I will buy another toyota!"

"Stellar reliability and versatility"

"My parents bought a Matrix XR new to replace a running Camry with 250K miles. At that time, we never had a car last so long and with so few repairs. This Matrix has been even more reliable! The odometer is maxed out at 299,999 (the early ones do by design). I figure it has about 310K now. Other than a recall or two, the first repair was at 250K when the alternator light came on. I replaced it but it failed 2 more times (autozone). Free replacements. The last one seems good so far. All original parts except fluids, brake pads, filters, plugs, belt, bulbs, batteries and LH mirror. Rear brakes rotors, drums, starter, water pump, fuel pump, radiator, etc....all original. Rust near driver's side rear door but hey it lives in New England (garaged). It has lots of space and drives well. My Focus ZX3 was more fun to drive but was a manual and not as reliable as it aged. The rear tires wear unevenly and get noisy, even after an alignment but last a decent amount of miles. They don't get rotated but that never happened on other cars we owned. It is much easier to work on than my Honda Fit that is very low and tight under the hood. Based on this car, I would definitely consider a Toyota next time."

"fantastic value"

"This car is outstanding--a pocket rocket. RPM limit is 8200, one of the highest in production cars. It comes "on the cams" at about 5500!! Six speed manual, top speed in the mid-120's. Excellent storage, front passenger seat folds flat. We've carried a full dining room set it in, and (separately) a 300 pound generator. Totally Toyota reliable. Too bad they stopped production of it."