Trouble Shooting

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Trouble Shooting
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Lexus GS 430, 2003 Lexus GS 300, 2002 Lexus GS 430, and 2002 Lexus GS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Trouble shooting of a steering column switch system complaint begins with verification of the customer problem. If problem occurs, go to step  3. If problem does not occur, go to next step.
  2. If problem does not occur, review conditions under which problem occurred for customer and try to duplicate those conditions. For example, if the problem occurs on rainy days or during high humidity conditions, sprinkle water onto vehicle and see if malfunction occurs. DO NOT sprinkle water directly into engine compartment or onto electronic components. Visually inspect for signs of mechanical and electrical damage. Inspect for blown fuses and damaged relays. Inspect for loose or corroded connections, damaged wiring harnesses and/or switches. Check for a broken or partially broken wire inside insulation, which could cause system malfunction but prove good in a continuity/voltage check with system disconnected. Ensure any aftermarket electronic equipment is properly installed. If fault is found, repair as necessary.
  3. Determine problem symptom. See STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES PROBLEM SYMPTOMS  table. See appropriate CIRCUIT TESTS  and COMPONENT TESTS  for the symptom(s).
    STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES PROBLEM SYMPTOMS

    Symptom Suspected Area (1)
    Ignition Switch
    Ignition Switch Is Not Set To Each Position (2)
    Key Unlock Warning Switch
    Key Unlock Warning System Does Not Operate (Buzzer Does Not Sound When Driver's Door Is Opened With Ignition OFF & Key Inserted) (3)(4)(5)
    Key Unlock Warning System Does Not Operate (Buzzer Sounds When Ignition Key Is ACC Or ON) (2)(5)
    Turn Signal & Hazard Warning System
    Hazard & Turn Do Not Light Up (6)(7)(2)(8)(5)
    Hazard Warning Light Does Not Light Up (Turn Is Normal) (9)(5)
    Turn Signal Does Not Light Up (Hazard Is Normal) (10)(5)
    Turn Signal Does Not Light Up In One Direction (10)(5)
    Only One Bulb Does Not Light Up (11)(5)
    (1) Perform test procedures in order listed under suspected area.
    (2) Check the ignition switch. See IGNITION SWITCH CIRCUIT  under CIRCUIT TESTS and IGNITION SWITCH  under COMPONENT TESTS.
    (3) Check the key unlock warning switch. See KEY UNLOCK WARNING SWITCH CIRCUIT  under CIRCUIT TESTS and KEY UNLOCK WARNING SWITCH  under COMPONENT TESTS.
    (4) Check the door courtesy switch. See AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS & LIGHTING article.
    (5) Check the wire harness. See WIRING DIAGRAMS .
    (6) Check the GAUGE fuse (10-amp). See COMPONENT LOCATIONS .
    (7) Check the TURN HAZ fuse (10-amp). See COMPONENT LOCATIONS .
    (8) Check the turn signal flasher relay. See TURN SIGNAL FLASHER CIRCUIT  under CIRCUIT TESTS.
    (9) Check the hazard warning switch. See HAZARD WARNING SWITCH CIRCUIT  under CIRCUIT TESTS and HAZARD WARNING SWITCH  under COMPONENT TESTS.
    (10) Check the turn signal switch. See TURN SIGNAL SWITCH CIRCUIT  under CIRCUIT TESTS and TURN SIGNAL SWITCH  under COMPONENT TESTS.
    (11) Check the bulb.
  4. After problem has been identified and repaired, confirm repairs. After repairs have been completed, confirm that problem has been eliminated. Operate system under same conditions recorded for original complaint. If problem is no longer present, repair has corrected problem. If problem is still present, further diagnosis and repair is required.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.