The starter in your Toyota Matrix can come from the factory either new or remanufactured. It can go by other names, too. In fact, you've probably heard them all: starter motor, self-starter, cranking motor, and so on. Whatever type of starter your hatchback has, though, how it works isn't too complicated. All a starter does, after all, is rotate an engine using dedicated motors and relays -- a process called "cranking." That's what gets that car you love to drive running. Remote starters do it via a smart key fob. All you do is press a button. When your starter won't turn over, however -- or, at least, it won't do it reliably -- it's usually because it's going out, that is, if it hasn't gone bad already.

What is Causing Starter Failure in My Toyota Matrix?

There are some common, easy-to-spot causes you can look for: loose wires, rusty terminals, and damaged parts. Signs you're having starter problems are often just as evident. Can you start your Matrix? If you can't, that's one sign (even if your dashboard lights activate anyway). If you can, but only in certain drive modes or gears, that's another sign. Maybe you tried jump-starting after nothing happened. Did it work? If not, that's yet another sign. Of course, other symptoms, like a smoking starter or one with an oily film, tell you that you almost certainly have starter issues. Install another OEM starter to repair your inertia system once and for all. Putting in a genuine Toyota one ensures compatibility with your Matrix, so it's naturally the best option. Our auto parts store has a massive selection you can order from, right here online. Browse our catalog by model to find the starter that fits, then place your order. We'll ship what you need immediately, and you'll be fixing things in no time!