Here's my experience with the dashboard cracking on my 2006 Solara. I purchased the car used in 2010 and it had about 35,000 miles. I keep this car, garaged, at my second home in Florida. In 2011 I noticed the first crack in the dashboard upon returning to the house. The car had sat in the garage for 4 1/2 months over the summer. By the winter of 2013 there were multiple cracks so I took the car to the local dealer.
The dealer told me there was nothing he or Toyota would do as the car was well past its warranty. I was given an estimate to replace the cracked dash pad for $2,271.65.
I wasn't inclined to spend this kind of money but every time I drove the car the cracks bothered me and seemed to becoming even worse! I checked used car values and found the difference in the value of the car between good and fair was more than $2,000. I knew I'd take this hit when I tried to trade/sell the car. So I called the Toyota Customer Service Number (800) 331-4331.
I explained the issue to the CSR. She asked for the VIN number and confirmed there was nothing Toyota would do to help me out. Rather than ranting and raving with her I explained I purchased this Solara because I was I loyal Toyota Customer. In fact not only did I currently own another 2005 Solara but I also owned a Tundra, She put me on hold and then came back on the line and said she confirmed I was a good customer. She said she would review the matter further with her supervisor and call me the following day. The next day she calls and says in the interest of maintaining my patronage as a Toyota customer Toyota was willing to reimburse me for the parts purchased at an authorized Toyota dealership! I then want to several local dealers and found one willing to charge me just $350 for the labor. I sent the parts invoice to Toyota and eight weeks later I received their check.
Will I continue to buy from Toyota. You bet, I'm presently looking at a new Tundra.