Hyundai Matrix road tests and consumer car reviews

Hyundai Matrix 2007

A brilliant family car. It’s roomy with a large boot space, but it is hard on petrol; my only complaint, but an important one.

Hyundai Matrix 2004

With respect to the engine vibration and the check-light and the mechanic not finding any problem, please note that the problem is caused by the jacks going into the coil pack. Apparently the engine heat deteriorates the plastic casing of the wire, what happens is it will get slack and the current will escape leading to signs of misfiring, which would make any normal mechanic change the plugs ,the plug wires, even the coil pack. Before going to these extremes, please ensure that the jack’s not slack, to aleviate the problem, simply switch off engine pull out jack, put back in securely, (dont jiggle it co’s if the problem exists it means the plastic is brittle and could crumble easily) and start car, then check. The light will blink a few times then stop, and remember once the prob starts the jacks on the harness will eventually need replacing.

Hyundai Matrix Manual 1.6 2003

It’s a nice and a very comfortable car. But I have a problem...sometimes when I’m driving there is the CHECK indicator on the dashboard and the car shakes. A mechanic checked the car but no fault was found. Can anyone help me please?

Responses to this review

Earlier I had the same problem. Afterwards my motor mechanic checked it and replaced the plug wire set. Make sure, you have to buy the original plug wire set that’s water proof - Ananth Rajah from Sri Lanka

Yes I too am facing the same problem, when I took my Matrix to the Hyundai dealer, they recommend that they change the spark plugs and cable and then the problem will be solved - Anand Anand from Malaysia

Hi Anand, How much you pay for it by changing the Cables? I sent my car to Hyundai Service Center and the computer indicated "Miss Firing". The technician advised me to change the cables & plugs as well. Thanks - Lin CH from Malaysia

Hyundai Matrix 3.0 crd overland 2006

I bought mine new 3 yrs ago and it’s been totally fault free. Gives plenty of power and manages 27.5 mpg around town, 32mpg on a run down to France. The spec is exellent for the money. X5’s & range rover sports are very nice but worth an additional £15k... I dont think so.

Hyundai Matrix 2008

You might feel its made from baked bean tins but it’s great value for money as a secondhand buy. Flexible seating, pleasant interior and a nippy engine. Main dealer costs are high, over £550 for service, cam belt and brake pads, but mine is now out of warranty so I will do my own servicing. Little drawers, cubby holes and stowage everywhere, fold down minitables on seatbacks too. Great as a second car for local work but I would not want to drive long motorway distances. Forward visibilty takes some getting used to with front pillars being a bit intrusive. I would not want to pay full price for a new car but £4k for a 27k mileage with fsh is good value.

Responses to this review

We bought an 08 Matrix last year, and have no complaints except one, which is really irritating me. When travelling over the usual pothole and bumpy roads around us, there is a continual noise, which sounds as if the spare wheel is loose - but it isn’t, and a noise that sounds as if the suspension is worn. Not clear as to whether it is from the front or the rear. We have had it checked at our local Hyundai garage, who have stated there is no wear on any of the joints and is perfectly safe to drive. They say the noise is a ’typical Matrix suspension rumble’. This surprises me, because I have encountered two different Matrix owners on chance meetings in car parks and have asked them about the noise, they both said they don’t have that problem. Is there anyone out there with any info for me please? - Jim Cruickshank from Somerset

Hyundai Matrix 2005

Can’t really fault it. Not a lot of street cred, but a great workhorse. I would probably have another if they updated it a bit but I can see no change at all in the last few years...

Responses to this review

I am beginning to like this car more and more - Sid Cullen from Northumberland

Hyundai Matrix auto 1.6. 2006

Wow wasn’t expecting much, only got it because of the long warranty. However cannot slate it, it is on the button all times, ride is good seat adjusts good, leg room it back fantastic. Auto box not sluggish only thing needs is a tweek on the engine to pull away that bit quicker. Summery great bargin.

Hyundai Matrix 1.5 CRTD GSi

For the money this is a very good car. The fixed rear seat may put some people off but for me this wasn’t an issue. Very low running costs were and this car definately delivers in this area. This is really the wife’s car but it’s not unpleasant to nip around in and my sons likes it just because it’s the same name as the film!