Finally gave up

Well, not exactly. The alternator on my 05 matrix was acting up. The light was coming on briefly in the morning but went away when I sped up. Same symptoms for a few days.

No light at all when I left work in the afternoon. Not taking chances, I bought a rebuilt Denso off Amazon. Yes it was a bit more money than other places but I needed it soon so I paid the difference. Replaced it under an hour. Output was 13.7 steady whether a/c & lights on, and idle or higher RPM. Old one was 14 something.

Mileage was about 260k

I'd say it treated me well ..