Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Toyota Matrix AWD L4-2.4L (2AZ-FE)FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Connecting Rod, Engine
PISTON SUB-ASSEMBLY WITH CONNECTING ROD
The connecting cap bolts should be tightened in 2 progressive steps.
Step 1
Install and alternately tighten the bolts of the connecting rod cap in several steps.

Torque 25 Nm (250 kgf-cm, 18 ft-lbf)
Step 2
Mark the front of the connecting rod cap bolts with paint.

Retighten the cap bolts 90° as shown in the illustration.
Check that the crankshaft turns smoothly.
Connecting Rod Side Clearance, Out-of-Round and Diameter

Standard Connecting Rod Large End Bore Diameter

Standard Connecting Rod Bearing Thickness

Standard crankshaft pin diameter 47.990 to 48.000 (1.8894 to 1.8898 in.)
The connecting cap bolts should be tightened in 2 progressive steps.
Step 1
Install and alternately tighten the bolts of the connecting rod cap in several steps.
Torque 25 Nm (250 kgf-cm, 18 ft-lbf)
Step 2
Mark the front of the connecting rod cap bolts with paint.
Retighten the cap bolts 90° as shown in the illustration.
Check that the crankshaft turns smoothly.
Connecting Rod Side Clearance, Out-of-Round and Diameter
Standard Connecting Rod Large End Bore Diameter
Standard Connecting Rod Bearing Thickness
Standard crankshaft pin diameter 47.990 to 48.000 (1.8894 to 1.8898 in.)
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
