Three problems related to engine exhaust system have been reported for the 2006 Toyota Matrix. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Heat shield hanger assembly failed and now heat shield vibrates against exhaust pipe making terrible noise. This is a very common problem as researched on the net. Toyota needs to fix this free.
2006 Toyota Matrix, 50,000 miles. Heat shield rearmost hanger assembly failed. Loud rattle as shield rested on exhaust pipe. Temporary fix: wire from tank strap around shield to keep shield from resting on pipe. Plastic hanger assembly split, captive nut separated, shield dropped to pipe. I regard it as a design flaw. Plastic was supposed to provide pressure to hold nut in place as well as to support load. Evidence of long term cracking, dirt in crack surfaces. Estimate to repair from dealer, $100, possibly includes both labor and parts cost. Otherwise, is a good product, take to dealer every 5000 miles for appropriate maintenance.
1/2 heat shield dropped onto top of exhaust pipe making a loud horrible noise.