NHTSA Complaint #11684214 — 2008 TOYOTA CAMRY

Issue Description: Melting Dashboard Creating Driving Hazard I am reporting a serious safety hazard involving my 2008 Toyota Camry, which has developed a melting/sticky dashboard condition that significantly affects driver visibility and safety during daylight driving. Nature of the Problem: •The dashboard has become soft, shiny, and sticky to the touch, especially in warmer temperatures. •The melting material creates a high-gloss surface, which leads to excessive glare on the windshield. •This reflection severely impairs forward visibility, especially under sunlight or direct light conditions, such as during midday driving or on sunny days. •The dashboard’s condition is progressively worsening, becoming a constant distraction and hazard when driving. •The condition also poses potential chemical exposure risks, as the degraded dashboard material emits a strong odor and residue. Safety Concerns: •Visual impairment due to reflection: The dashboard acts like a mirror, reflecting sunlight directly into the driver’s line of sight. •Increased accident risk: The glare limits the driver’s ability to clearly see pedestrians, other vehicles, traffic signals, and road signs. •Heat-related degradation: The softening dashboard may also interfere with airbag deployment zones or deteriorate structural safety components over time. Request for Action: I respectfully request the following: 1.That this issue be formally investigated as a safety defect by the relevant vehicle safety authority. 2.That Toyota issue a recall or safety repair program for affected vehicles, if not already done. 3.That an evaluation be conducted to determine if the airbag function is compromised by the dashboard’s current state. Previous Attempts to Resolve: I have attempted to contact Toyota Customer Service and/or local dealerships, but have not received a resolution to date. The problem persists and continues to pose a daily driving hazard.