The Toyota Matrix is a practical and refined compact wagon.
It has a modest amount of tech features, some of which use various beeps and chimes.
If you’re Matrix keeps beeping and you’re unsure why, this article is here to help.
Table of Contents
Toyota Matrix Beeping
The most common causes of beeping on a Toyota Matrix is weight on the passenger seat Other causes include headlights left ON, faulty ignition or headlight switch, the dashcam, low 12V battery or a low key fob battery.
1. Seatbelt Alarm & Weight on Seat
The seatbelt alarm is a known suspect for annoying beeps.
There might be a faulty sensor that isn’t recognizing that your seatbelt is fastened.
Alternatively, you may have some weight on the passenger seat like a bag of groceries which is triggering an alarm.
In which case you can try fastening the passenger seatbelt.
Matrix owners on ToyotaNation.com had this to say:
“It always happens to me when I throw a thirty pk. of beer on my front seat”
“haha I know what it it, if u keep ur hand on the passenger seat or have something on it that is a tad heavy it will trigget that… I have a 05 S and that used to drive me nuuuuuuts, I like to keep my hand on the pass seat on the occasion, and when u turn left it thinks someone is not buckled up and beeps… if u look at ur pass side seat belt/air bag indicator u will see the red light flashing….”
2. Headlights ON
If you have left your headlights on then you will hear a warning beep, this is so you don’t drain the battery.
3. Faulty Headlight or Ignition Switches
A faulty headlight switch or a faulty ignition switch may be the cause of the beeping.
Since the headlights being on, or the key being in the ignition will cause the chime to sound, one of these switches may have a loose connection or be faulty.
4. Key Fob Battery
Make sure your key fob battery isn’t running low, try swapping out the battery.
Ensure the battery is inserted correctly and the inside of the key fob is free from dirt and dust.
5. Dashcam Beeps
If you have a dashcam equipped, check to make sure it’s not the source of your beeping. If you hear the beep after going over a bump or a rough patch of road etc. then this is likely the dashcam recording an incident notification. You will need to adjust the sensitivity and/or volume settings.
6. Faulty latches Or Switches
If you are experiencing beeping whilst driving your Matrix, this may be caused by a faulty door switch or latch, if you have a ‘door ajar’ light on the dashboard then this is almost certainly the case.
Faulty latches are quite common – you may need to have it replaced although you should first try giving all latches a good clean and spraying with something like WD-40.
Similarly door switches can fail over time – they report the open/closed status of the door and might be sending false readings to the cars computer.
Related: Toyota Matrix Alarm Going Off (12 Common Causes)
7. Spare Keys Left in Vehicle
If you’ve left a spare set of keys in your Matrix you may hear a warning beep when you go to lock the vehicle as it thinks you are trying to lock the keys in the car.
8. Phone Alerts
Your phone could be the source of your beeping, especially if it is connected by Bluetooth.
9. Weak 12V Battery
A weak 12V battery can cause a myriad of problems.
To rule this out of the equation, simply have a battery health check performed.
These can be done at AutoZone for free.
Also check to ensure the connections are tight and free of dirt and grime.
10. Electronic Devices Inside or Outside of The Car
The beeping may not actually be coming from your Matrix.
Do you have any other electronic or battery-powered devices in your vehicle or your garage that could be causing the beeping?
Usually, it’s their batteries going bad – For example, a garage door opener, a smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide detector, or a dropped wristwatch.
11. Aftermarket Devices
If you have an aftermarket alarm system or an aftermarket stereo fitted these could be the source of the beeping.
You can try disconnecting them to see if the beeping stops.
Alternative Suggestions
Check for Recalls or TSBs
By entering your car’s VIN number on Toyota’s recall page or the NTHSA’s Safety Issues & Recalls page you can determine whether or not there is a TSB or recall for your vehicle and if there is you’ll want to get it addressed.
A recall is issued by a vehicle manufacturer for issues that are safety-related, while a TSB covers components that may be malfunctioning but don’t compromise the safety of the vehicle.
Watch the Dash Display
This could give you a clue about what’s causing the beeping.
Also, keep an eye on the radio / infotainment screen, this might give a clue too.
Disconnect the Battery
Sometimes mysterious beeping problems can disappear with a simple reboot, there are no guarantees here but it’s worth a try.
Disconnect the battery for 20 seconds and this resets many of the electronics in the vehicle.
Check For Warning Messages
When the beeping occurs can you see any lights or warning messages on the instrument panel?
This can give a clue as to what’s causing the beeps e.g. ‘Door Ajar’.
Take it to a Toyota Dealership
If needed, take your Toyota to the dealership.
- Tell them you are NOT paying for a check on what the problem might be.
- Ask them if they will check it for free.
- Most dealerships and other places do quick/initial diagnosis for no money as they plan to make money for the repair of your vehicle.
- If your unit is still under warranty then they should fix and resolve the issue for free.
Diagnosing Beeps With a Scanner
Another possible option, if you’re hearing a beeping sound, is to use an OBD2 diagnostic scanner tool.
These are fairly easy to use, you simply plug them into your car – there’s usually an OBD2 port under the steering wheel.
Once you have the scan codes you can research these online specifically for the Matrix.
There are also OBD apps available so you can connect your car straight to your smartphone (either with a cable or Bluetooth) without even needing a scanner.
Resources
https://www.toyota.com/owners/resources/warranty-owners-manuals
