Letter from senator nelson on behalf of constituent re safety concerns about his 2009 Lexus RX350. The consumer stated he has breathing concerns related to breathing the fumes released from his melting dashboard. The consumer wanted the dealer to tell him, what chemicals were used in the dashboard. However, the dealer has been giving him the run-around for the past two years.

- Cape Coral, FL, USA

On or about March 5th 2014, I attempted to open the tailgate on our 2009 lexua RX350 and encountered hot melted rubber sticking to my fingers. I removed the sticky black rubber from the lock, but it was difficult to remove the tar-like material. As a certified electrical technician, I concluded that the electrical switch on that tailgate lock stuck and heated to a point that melted rubber, making a goo-like material. Please note this above referenced car was not in the sun during the time the rubber melted. We have been using this vehicle without using the tailgate lock with the rubber boot, because we do not live within 80 miles of a Lexus dealer, not can pay the $295 to replace the boot at this time.

- Ocala, FL, USA

Melted, gooey, rubber strip on rear hatchback opener (caused by electrical door opener switch overheating?)

- Saint Leonard, MD, USA

The dashboard is melting and falling apart. This is a safety issue especially since it is suppose to protect you during an accident.

- Tampa, FL, USA

I own a Lexus SUV, my third Lexus/Toyota brand vehicle. So I trusted the safety and reliability. One day everything is fine. The next day, I see a small crack in the lower part of the dashboard of the passenger seat. Literally, one day fine and the next cracked and without a single incident that caused it. In just a matter of weeks, my entire left dashboard is cracking and chipping and it continues to spread and deteriorate day by day. I am shocked and alarmed! I do not trust that this dashboard is safe as I am greatly concerned that the air bag (s) will be compromised. I am also concerned that it could components integral to the operation of the vehicle. This is well-known issue with Toyota and Lexus (affecting tens of thousands of vehicles) yet little to no action has been taken and I respectfully request a recall. It has been covered extensively in news stories, on the web and by dealerships concerned about customer satisfaction and safety. There are also known to be internal documents by Toyota that acknowledges the problem. I contacted Lexus corporate and it sent me to a local Lexus dealer to document the issue and this went back to Lexus corporate. This languished for many weeks without follow up and then my claim was unceremoniously denied and without explanation. I am greatly concerned. Thank you for your time and attention.

- Delray Beach, FL, USA

Recall there has been a series of complaints regarding the dashboard of Lexus getting sticky and cracking further and further as time goes by. I am now also included in this list of unsatisfied and concerned owner. My 2009 Lexus RX350 has noticeable stickiness in the dashboard and cracking in certain locations all over the dashboard. What is alarming is that the cracks are beginning to be more noticeable around or on the airbag location on the dashboard. I am alarmed and concerned because of how the cracks is spreading it may cause the airbag to deploy accidentally. The dealer offered to supply the necessary parts but wants me to pay up to $1000 in labor. The to me is very insulting because this is known as an issue and it is a manufacturer fault not owner. Please advice. Thank you on advance.

- Miami, FL, USA

Foot slips between gas pedal and brake causing car to accelerate.

- Naples, FL, USA