Is your Lexus at Risk for a Melted Dashboard?

Lexus has steadily ranked high in customer satisfaction, but there is one big issue that has plagued many Lexus owners: the dreaded melting dashboard. And to make it worse, it seems that Lexus does not want to help owners with this issue. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and if your Lexus is at risk.

Do dashboards really melt?

A vehicle’s dashboard should not melt, so if you are experiencing this bizarre circumstance, there is obviously a defect in your model. You rarely hear about in vehicles with a melting dashboard, but for some Lexus owners, it is a problem that is highly frustrating.

Due to extreme heat and direct sunlight, the dashboard gets shiny and sticky, causing the dashboard to quickly degrade. This clearly will need to be replaced at the cost of the owner.

The melting issue happens more often in the southern areas of the United States due to the extreme heat and humidity.

The problem with melting dashboards was first reported in May 2014. Since then, many models have been affected. The following are susceptible to melting dashboards:

• 2003 – 2008 Lexus GX 470
• 2004 – 2006 Lexus RX 330
• 2005 – 2008 Lexus RX 400h
• 2006 – 2008 Lexus ES 350
• 2006 – 2008 Lexus IS 250 and 350
• 2007 Lexus LS 460
• 2007 – 2009 Lexus RX 350

A melted dashboard may not sound like a serious safety issue. But when the dashboard melts, it gets shiny (and a noxious chemical smell is released into the vehicle’s cabin.) The shininess leads to a reflection in the window. It can be so bad that the driver may not be able to see out the window. This is unsafe and can lead to an accident.

There is no way to simply repair a dashboard that has already experienced this melting phenomenon. The only solution is to replace it.

Lexus knows about the issue but has tried to keep quiet about it. A lawsuit was filed but dropped. Lexus made promises to replace the dashboards, yet they fell short. They released a service bulletin on the issue but they never had a recall. Another lawsuit was filed, but drivers are still having problems getting their dashboards replaced.

Some vehicles are still covered under the warranty enhancement while many others are not. If you’ve found yourself in this position, it can’t hurt to call Lexus to see if they will cover part of the cost.

How to Prevent a Melting Dashboard

If you own a Lexus model that is prone to a melting dashboard, there are a couple of things that you can do to help prevent melting. One simple thing is to use a dashboard cover. The cover will keep sunlight from directly hitting the dashboard.

Another thing to do is treat the dashboard with vinyl and leather protectant. Make sure that you only use a protectant that does not have alcohol in it. Alcohol will dry out the dashboard, causing it to crack.

Euro Plus Automotive Will Replace Your Melting Dashboard

At Euro Plus Automotive, we can help you with your problem with a melting dashboard. We understand that it is a smelly eyesore that needs to be replaced, so we will work with you and try to get the dashboard replaced as quickly and inexpensive as possible.

We are an independent service center that specializes in Lexus services and repairs. We have the latest tools and equipment required to get your car fixed right. Our technicians have the extensive knowledge and training needed to handle all your Lexus service needs.

At Euro Plus Automotive, our expert technicians can help with all your Lexus service needs. If you are experiencing dashboard melting, do not wait any longer to have it replaced. A shiny dashboard can make driving hazardous.

We strive to deliver the best service around. Our staff makes it their mission to make sure our customers are completely satisfied. You can reach us at 818-710-8244 or come see us at 7107 Canoga Ave, Canoga Park. We service the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles County, CA areas. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you.

* Lexus IS250 Dashboard image credit goes to: DarthArt.