Replacing Axel Fuel In A Toyota Matrix: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to replace the axle fuel in your Toyota Matrix, it's important to know that this process can be complex and is not recommended as a DIY job due to the risk of fire and potential for further vehicle damage. The average cost for a professional fuel injector replacement in a Toyota Matrix is between $875 and $1264, with parts ranging from $721 to $1119 and labor costs between $154 and $144. The process typically involves relieving pressure from the fuel rail, removing the upper plenum, disconnecting the fuel injector, and installing a new one. Additionally, it's worth noting that fuel filters, which are important for preventing contaminants from entering the fuel system, should also be replaced regularly and can be done at home with intermediate DIY skills.

Removing the wheel and axle nut

To remove the wheel and axle nut from your Toyota Matrix, you will need to raise and support the vehicle with the suspension hanging. You can then remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Now that the wheel is off, put one of the lug nuts back on to hold the rotor in place. It's now time to remove the axle nut. You will need a 30-millimetre 12-point socket. If you're working on the ground and using a ratchet, the axle may turn. If this happens, use a pry bar. Place it between the studs and put it against the ground to gain leverage, then continue to remove the nut.

Give the nut a couple of taps with a mallet to break it free from the wheel bearing. A small amount of penetrant spray may help here. Now, remove the nut.

At this point, you can remove the control arm from the ball joint with a 17-millimetre socket. Be careful, as there will be tension on this joint.

Now, take a pry bar and put it through the holes in the top of the control arm. Pry down and turn the bar so it doesn't move, then release. Pull back on the axle to remove it from the knuckle area. Tie the axle up so that when you pop it out of the transmission, it doesn't fall and cause injury.

Go underneath the vehicle with a pry bar and place it against the axle and transmission. Pop the axle out, being careful as fluid may come out.

Detaching the control arm from the ball joint

To detach the control arm from the ball joint, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that there are various tools that can be used to separate the control arm from the ball joint. These include a pickle fork, a special ball joint separator tool, a hammer, a puller, and a slide hammer. It is also important to note that some of these tools can cause damage if used incorrectly, so it is recommended to consult a professional or a repair manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure.

One method to separate the control arm from the ball joint is to use a pickle fork or a special ball joint separator tool. This tool is inserted between the control arm and the ball joint to pry them apart. It is important to ensure that the tool is correctly aligned and that excessive force is not applied, as this can cause damage.

Another method is to use a hammer. Place the Toyota Matrix on jack stands to ensure it is secure and suspended. Then, use a hammer to strike the knuckle part of the ball joint, rather than the control arm. This can help to shock the ball joint out of the control arm. It is important to note that this method may require multiple impacts and should be done carefully to avoid damage.

Additionally, a puller can be used to separate the control arm from the ball joint. A puller is attached to the ball joint and then cranked tightly. Again, it is important to apply force in the correct direction and to use a suitable amount of pressure to avoid damage. This method may also require multiple attempts.

Finally, a slide hammer can be used, especially if the ball joint is stuck. A slide hammer is a tool that allows you to apply a sliding force to the ball joint, which can help to separate it from the control arm. This method should be done carefully, as excessive force can cause damage.

In conclusion, detaching the control arm from the ball joint of a Toyota Matrix can be done using various tools and methods. It is important to consult a professional or a repair manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure, as incorrect procedures can cause damage.

Lining up the splines and pushing in the new axle

• First, ensure that the splines on the new axle are correctly aligned. The splines should fit together seamlessly with the corresponding grooves on the axle shaft. You may need to rotate the axle slightly to find the correct alignment.
• Apply a small amount of lubricant to the splines and the snap ring. This will help the axle slide in more easily and prevent any damage to the components.
• Position the snap ring with its opening at the bottom of the splines. This orientation will help guide the axle into place smoothly.
• Firmly slide the axle into place. You may need to use moderate force to overcome the resistance of the snap ring. Make sure the axle is straight and push it in steadily.
• If the axle is still difficult to insert, try using a heavier hammer (2-4 lbs) and a longer bar or pipe to apply more force. You can also try attaching a 2x4 or a metal bar to the vice grips and hitting the other end with the hammer.
• If the axle is still not budging, check for any obstruction or misalignment. Remove the axle and inspect the splines and snap ring for any damage or misalignment.
• In some cases, you may need to use a slide hammer or a similar tool to help remove and install the axle. This tool allows you to apply both pulling and pushing force to the axle, which can be helpful if it is seized or stuck.
• If all else fails, consider taking the car to a mechanic or a specialised shop. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to remove and install the axle properly.

Remember to work carefully and wear appropriate safety gear when performing any car maintenance or repairs.

Torqueing the mounting hardware to manufacturer specifications

When installing a new CV axle on the driver's side of a 2003-2013 Toyota Matrix, it is important to torque the mounting hardware to the manufacturer's specifications. This ensures that the axle is securely fastened and can withstand the stresses of driving.

First, you'll need to safely raise and support the vehicle with the suspension hanging. Next, remove the five 21-millimetre lug nuts and take the wheel off. Put one of the lug nuts back on to hold the rotor in place. Then, remove the axle nut using a 30-millimetre 12-point socket. If you're working on the ground and the axle nut keeps turning, use a pry bar for leverage. Tap the axle gently with a hammer to break it free from the wheel bearing. Apply some penetrant and tap it again until it moves freely. Remove the axle from the knuckle area and tie it up to prevent it from falling and causing injury.

Now, from underneath the vehicle, use a pry bar to pop the axle out of the transmission. Fluid may come out, so have a collection bucket ready. Remove the safety strap from the axle. Inspect the seal for any cracks and clean it off. It's a good idea to replace the seal when replacing the axle.

Now, install the new axle. Line up the splines with the transmission hole and carefully push the axle in, being careful not to damage the boot or the seal. Use a rubber mallet to drive the axle in, making sure it's flush with the transmission. Apply some copper never seize to the backside of the bearing. Pull the knuckle away, line up the axle, and carefully put it in place. Again, be careful not to catch the boot on anything. Line up the lower ball joint with the control arm. Grab your mounting hardware and apply some thread locker. Bottom out the hardware and torque it to 66 foot-pounds.

Finally, put on the axle nut and bottom it out. Torque it to 159 foot-pounds. Lower the vehicle and torque the axle nut to 159 foot-pounds. Remember to peen over the axle nut into the slot to lock it in place. This is crucial for safety. Use a flat punch and give it a couple of whacks until you see a dimple. Put the wheel back on, torque the lug nuts to 76 foot-pounds, and you're done!

Filling the manual transmission with 75W-90 gear oil

Firstly, you will need to gather the necessary tools and parts. These include gear oil (API GL-4 or GL-5, 75W-90), two metal crush gaskets for the fill and drain plugs (Toyota Part #90430-18008), a jack and jack stands, a flashlight or trouble light, shop rags, an oil catch pan, a hammer or mallet, a 24mm shallow socket and ratchet, and a 10mm hex/Allen key. A suction gun or another method for injecting the gear oil is also required.

Park your Toyota Matrix on hard, level ground, engage the parking brake, and put the car in first gear. Jack up the front of the car and use jack stands to securely support it. Give the tire a good shove to ensure the car is sturdy on the stand.

Open the hood and locate the manual transmission, as well as the drain and fill plugs. The filler (or check) plug is usually located on the side of the transmission case rather than the top. Before removing the plugs, it is recommended to put an oil catch pan underneath the transmission filler plug.

Remove the filler plug first with a 10mm hex/Allen key. It is usually tight, so you may need to hit the key a couple of times with a hammer. After removing the filler plug, wait for any oil to stop dripping, and wipe down the transmission case.

Now, slide under the car and reposition the catch pan under the transmission drain plug. Remove the drain plug with a 24mm shallow socket and ratchet. Take the drain plug out by hand and wait for all the oil to drain out.

Take the old metal crush gasket off the transmission drain plug and put on a new one. Install the drain plug by hand until you can't spin it anymore, then switch to the ratchet and tighten it until it's nice and tight (the torque for both plugs is 29 lb-ft). Wipe down any drips on the transmission case.

Now for the fun part—time to add the new transmission oil! There are various methods for adding the oil, such as using a suction gun or a funnel with a piece of hose attached. Reposition the catch pan under the filler hole and remove the old metal crush gasket from the filler plug, putting a new one on. You'll know when to stop adding oil when it starts to come out of the filler hole.

Once you've added enough oil, install the filler plug (with the new crush gasket on) by hand until you can't turn it anymore. Then, grab the 10mm hex/Allen key and tighten the filler plug. Double-check that the filler plug is nice and tight, and wipe down any drips on the transmission case and plastic.

If your car is still in the air/on stands, lower it. Except for cleaning up, you're done! Take your car for a test drive and check for leaks after, and in a couple of days.

Toyota recommends manual transmission changes every 64,000 kilometres (40,000 miles) or 48 months (4 years).

Frequently asked questions