2003 Toyota Matrix Base, 4WDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

CHECK Mode Code Retrieval (Hand-Held Tester Only)

NOTE: Compared to normal mode, check mode has an increased sensitivity to detect malfunctions. Furthermore, same diagnostic items as ones detected in normal mode can also be detected in check mode.
  1. Ensure vehicle battery positive voltage is 11 V or more. Apply parking brake. Shift transmission/transaxle into neutral (M/T) or park (A/T). Turn A/C and all accessories off. Ensure throttle valve is fully closed. Turn ignition OFF.
  2. Prepare and connect hand-held tester to DLC3. See Figure. Turn ignition switch and hand-held tester ON.
  3. Switch hand-held tester from normal mode to check mode. Check mode is operational if MIL on instrument cluster flashes. Start engine (the MIL goes off after engine starts). If no DTCs are present, MIL will turn off. Try to simulate conditions of driveability complaint described by customer. Leave ignition switch ON until you have checked DTC, etc.
    NOTE: Take care not to turn ignition switch OFF. Turning ignition switch OFF switches diagnosis system from check mode to normal mode. So all DTCs, etc. will be erased.
  4. After simulating malfunction conditions, use hand-held tester diagnosis selector to check DTCs and freeze frame data, etc. For more information on freeze frame data, see FREEZE FRAME DATA . After checking DTC, inspect applicable circuit. See DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS . If driveability problem exists and no DTCs are present, go to TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES article for diagnosis by symptom.
  5. After repairs for DTC have been completed, DTC must be cleared from ECM memory. See CLEARING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES . Road test vehicle to ensure all symptoms and/or complaints have been repaired.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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