2003 Toyota Matrix install

**Matrix_24** · 08-17-2005, 12:13 PM

First off, good luck finding a used bezel, I have not seen one on Ebay or any of the vibe or matrix forums. I gave up hope and just hacked up the one in my car.

For putting it together I used 10 min epoxy from the hobby store and balsa wood. I only used bondo as the filler and a little over the back side of the monitor for some reinforcement.

Just take your time sanding and prepare to sand and resand after putting the primer down. It may look and feel smooth, but the primer will show all the high or low spots. I used everything from 220 all the way to 600 grit sandpaper.

The radio mounts really snug in the area above the shifter. I cannot get it out without pushing from behind. You will barely have room, my sony has about a 1/2 inch behind it before hitting what appears to be an air duct.

**sdashiki** · 08-17-2005, 12:19 PM

If you are still under warranty, remove the bezel, drive to the dealer, tell them it cracked. If they ask how, just skirt around the issue cuz in reality they shouldnt care. if they want it back, say you tossed it.

Then say you want a replacement one. Just say YOU WANT A REPLACEMENT, and dont take no for an answer. They should say yes, its warranty. I drilled a hole into the "placeholder" button underneath the recirculating air button, cuz I wanted to put my AMP bass control there. I changed my mind, and did just what I described, and got a new one.

**MatrixPC** · 08-17-2005, 04:43 PM

I posted a WTB on matrixowners forum. The guy sell for 25 shipped. I was lucky that the guy got his radio stollen which scratch the left side by the AC button. He order a new one and thus selling this scratch one. I have been watching fleebay without any success. Junk yard is out. Dealers want 100 bucks.
As far as fab the LCD, mine method is the same as Matrix_24. Check my installation in my sign where there is a link to the fab process.
As a general rule, sand the radio bezel and the LCD well all around to get a good bond between the 2. The most difficult part is finding a perfect color match for the stock silver.

**Matrix_24** · 08-17-2005, 05:18 PM

Originally Posted by MatrixPC

The most difficult part is finding a perfect color match for the stock silver.

Which in my opinion is impossible without paying to have the color mixed.

**uncrase** · 08-17-2005, 06:15 PM

I'm considering junk yard, but you're right, those guys know what it costs and want
the big bucks for it. I called one and he said he has a 2003 matrix but I have to come
over and look for it myself. When I asked how much, he said "depends on the condition".
Great, it's a 40 minute drive to the yard.. I'll go over there and bluff my way through it
to see if he can let it go for less.

A friend of mine has a bodyshop, and he told me there isn't much choice... there is no
aftermarket for things like that. And the yard owners know...but at the same time, if
they don't sell it to you, what are the chances someone else will buy it from them :-)

**Matrix_24** · 08-17-2005, 06:58 PM

Well I am done with the monitor, all I have is some work to do on the PC case once my new fans come in. Since I am using just the main board from a laptop. I bought a base with 2 fans powered by USB that I will attach it to and put a lid on it.

**Shelbrain** · 08-17-2005, 09:06 PM

I have to say that the detail of the dash piece is in impressive. In looking at the whole dash however I am envisioning that you should bring the a/c controls out to line up with the rest of the bezel and radio which stick out a little farther. Nonetheless, looks good.

**Matrix_24** · 08-17-2005, 09:45 PM

Originally Posted by Shelbrain

I have to say that the detail of the dash piece is in impressive. In looking at the whole dash however I am envisioning that you should bring the a/c controls out to line up with the rest of the bezel and radio which stick out a little farther. Nonetheless, looks good.

I do agree that the dials do look too recessed with the new additions. Not sure what I will do about that yet.

Here are a few night shots:

**Jahntassa** · 08-17-2005, 10:19 PM

I think gmpartsdirect.com has the bezel for around $26 or something..but I can't remember what the part number is.

I went the opposite way with my Vibe, and mounted the screen behind the existing bezel, as I didn't trust my fabrication skillz.