Toyota to Replace Sticky Dashboards for Free
Over the last few months, there have been reports of Toyota customers dealing with sticky, melting dashboards in some of the more humid states. Until now, Toyota has been treating these issues on a case-by-case basis, and most owners have had to pony up at least some of the cost to replace the dashboard. But now, after realizing that this is an extensive problem, the automaker is sending out “Warranty Enhancement Notifications” (NOT recalls) to some 4.5 million drivers of Toyota and Lexus vehicles to let them know they can get the dash replaced free-of-charge at their local dealership.
Customers who have already paid to replace this faulty part will be eligible for reimbursement. Unfortunately, the parts won’t become available until late spring, so customers will have to wait a few months before the problem is fixed.
Drivers have found that in hot weather, their dashboards can melt and become sticky, creating a shiny surface that creates a distracting windshield glare that could easily cause an accident.
Toyota isn’t the only automaker whose customers have been dealing with melting dashboards. Nissan, Mazda, and Ford vehicles also seem to have this problem, although there’s no word from those automakers as to whether or not they will cover the parts replacement for affected vehicles.
The models affected by this non-recall are:
2003 – 2004 Toyota 4Runner
2005 – 2010 Toyota Avalon
2007 – 2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid
2004 – 2010 Toyota Sienna
2004 – 2008 Toyota Solara
2007 – 2008 Lexus ES350
2003 – 2008 Lexus GX470
2006 – 2008 Lexus IS250 and 350
2007 Lexus LS460
2004 – 2008 Lexus RX Sport Utility 330
2005 – 2008 Lexus RX Sport Utility 400H
If you own any of these vehicles, expect to receive a letter from Toyota in the next few months to let you know when the parts are ready.
Catherine Hiles (she/her) is a native Brit living and working in Dayton, Ohio. Cat has written about a variety of subjects, including finance, cars, and parenting. She is a frequent contributor to Dayton Mom Collective, The Penny Hoarder, and WDW Magazine.
Cat lives with her husband, their two kids, and their energetic pitbull mix. She counts running, lifting weights, walking, and reading among her hobbies. See more articles by Cat.