I am from Brisbane, Australia. I noticed a couple of months ago that the dash was quite hot and very sticky to the touch. I wasn't sure what it was but since then I have been aware of it and it has got worse. I keep my car in the garage and yet when I go out in the sun or it is just a hot day - it becomes really tacky and the foam that the dash is made of has obviously begun to break down. Foam cushions do that if they are not good quality foam - and the material that the dash is definitely a manufacturer's issue. It is not wear and tear.

Yesterday I telephoned Toyota Head Office and they "blew" me off stating that dealers are the ones who I have to see for an assessment. I do not know why they had to collect my name, address, car details, VIN # - to then tell me that there was nothing that they could do and that I would have to go to a dealer. I was put through a dealer in my local area - who I am sure has been coached what to say in this situation. All they could keep harping on about was it was out of its warranty period. I asked how many other people had come in with the same issue and the person (female) told me that she had filled out forms for 3 other complaints in the last 2 weeks.I asked her the cost of replacement of a dash and she said about $1500. I was absolutely horrified.

So today I went to a dealer (not the place where I rang up but related) and they took photos and made an application which when I asked what would happen - I was told would be sent to Toyota Australia Head Office. Then the Service Manager asked me what $ amount I would contribute? I asked him "What do you mean?" The next 10 mins were spent arguing with him - I don't believe that I should have to pay anything. The product is poor quality and they need to be hearing that. Why should I be paying anything just because the dash is in the sun from time to time when I drive. I mean really... he was such a company man! I asked him what would he do if he was in my situation? Remember - he drives a company car and would have it replaced regularly. He said that he would contribute $500!! Isn't that so bad - just helps Toyota's image.

I am taking a stand and will report this to as many organizations and websites as I can. I am not going to be pressured into paying for my dash to be replaced when I did nothing to cause this. I have owned other cars - some for more than 10 years and never had such a problem with a dash. I will wait to hear the outcome. I do suspect that it will be "nothing" from Toyota Australia. I asked how long before I hear something. He said a couple of days. I will be asking for the written report as evidence that my complaint has been lodged.