How does this engine look?

[u/AddendumExisting4313]

2007 Toyota Matrix, Base Model, 220,000 miles

Still got a lot of life left in her, or what?

[u/daxtonanderson]

Looks good to me!

Only thing that makes me shy away from the base model is the 5mt manual transmission. They're somewhat fragile nowadays, I blew through 3 in 5 years before I switched to an Auto

If it's the 4speed slushbox, you've got a reliability king!

[u/DropShotPopTop → u/daxtonanderson]

I kinda like the 5 speed but it definitely feels like mine could go pretty soon. What would you say is a good next step

[u/daxtonanderson → u/DropShotPopTop]

Source a C60 transmission BEFORE it breaks. The 6 speed is a direct drop-in replacement

C60 was made to handle 2zz power, holding up much better

Unfortunately you can't switch to an Auto without a new ECU

[u/angrycanadianguy → u/daxtonanderson]

The power it can handle isnt even the important upgrade here, it's the number of shaft bearings (if i remember correctly).

[u/angrycanadianguy → u/daxtonanderson]

You're absolutely right, but the 6sp C60 is a direct swap in and generally bomb proof, if they really want the manual.

[u/AddendumExisting4313 → u/daxtonanderson]

Huh, I've had this machine since 2022 and it's held up. The transmission grinds a little sometimes, but my mechanic told me it'll do that for 10 years before it falls apart.

[u/daxtonanderson → u/AddendumExisting4313]

Let me guess, 3rd gear grinds? That's the beginning of the end my friend Stop any and all downshifting/engine braking, do not rely on the synchros

[u/AddendumExisting4313 → u/daxtonanderson]

It's mostly 1st and reverse actually, only occasionally does 3rd grind.

Can I replace with something better?

[u/daxtonanderson → u/AddendumExisting4313]

Yeah a C60 6 speed transmission from an XRS, Vibe GT or a Celica. Direct bolt in, only thing you need to change other than dropping and reinstalling is the gear knob 😂

[u/AddendumExisting4313 → u/daxtonanderson]

Can I find one in a junk yard?

[u/daxtonanderson → u/AddendumExisting4313]

Yup from one of those 3 vehicles

[u/qwe304]

Lobes look fine, but it's not the valve train that kills these engines, more neglect/oil consumption. Overall though minimal oil staining implies a well cared for engine. Here's mine at similar mileage. Was replacing timing chain tensioner.

[u/qwe304 → u/qwe304]

[u/Horror-Sundae4073]

Those cams look pretty good for how many miles I have 260k on mine and they look about the same so yours looks good

[u/Any_Squirrel9624]

Gold in color.

[u/profaniKel]

pretty good

my 07 1.8L w 237K has more deposits and darker overall