Matrix gear shift indicator issue

I'm having a strange issue with my 2006 Toyota Matrix (gasoline engine) with about 115k km on it. The gear shift indicator in the instrument panel is completely dead, making it impossible to engage any gear. It feels like the automatic transmission is slipping and shifting very roughly, and I'm hearing grinding noises when I try to shift. I scanned it and there's an error code related to the transmission control unit. Could a faulty instrument panel or a sensor issue be causing this?

4 comment(s)

I had something similar happen with my Matrix. It sounds like it could be the control unit. Does the gear selection display in the speedometer not work too?

Yeah, that's right! The gear selection display in the speedometer is also not working. Did your car have the same slipping and grinding noises? How did you resolve your issue?

Yep, identical symptoms. Unclean shifting and grinding were present. Error stored in the error memory. Based on that, I would recommend taking it to a qualified mechanic. It's most likely a defective control unit that's affecting everything. Prepare for a hefty bill though.

Thanks! After your suggestion and checking with a local mechanic, it turned out to be exactly what you said. The defective control unit was the culprit, and the repair cost me around 1000€. It's all sorted out now, and the Matrix is running smoothly again!

Join the discussion now: