1. What is the Toyota HID Headlight Advisory?
According to the lawsuits, the HID headlights in the 2006-2009 Prius vehicles can begin to shut off without warning. The headlights may appear to be working when the car is first started and may even work again on the next trip.
It is important to monitor your headlights and to go a dealership or mechanic as soon as you notice one of your bulbs flicking or occasionally shutting off. By monitoring your headlights and taking prompt action once you notice the problem, you will significantly reduce the chance that both lights will go out at the same time.
Toyota began installing new HID bulbs in early 2008 that statistically appear to perform better, thus alleviating the frequency of the flickering and shut offs. However, Toyota has indicated that intermittent operation of HID headlights is a sign that the HID headlight bulbs are reaching the end of their useful life, so you should continue to monitor the headlights in the future.
2. Is there a deadline to mail claims for reimbursements?
Yes. The deadline was May 30, 2011.
3. What is the status of my claim?
All claims were mailed to the Claims Administrator. You can call the Claims Administrator by dialing 1-800-746-3614.
4. I think the HID bulbs are too expensive – is any help available?
Beginning in December 2009, Toyota announced an HID Headlight Customer Support Program. Through the Program, Toyota announced it was lowering the price of the HID bulbs from the previous price of $300 per bulb to the new price of $150 per bulb. The
Toyota Prius CSP letter announcing the Program also provided for limited reimbursements. Those who have already received reimbursements through the Program can submit a claim under this settlement but will not be “double” reimbursed for any repair expenses.
5. Can I take advantage of the Toyota extended warranty if my Prius is outside 5 years or 50,000 miles?
If your vehicle is outside the 5 years or 50,000 mile warranty period, but you can provide proof that the headlight problem began within 5 years and 50,000 miles, you will be entitled to warranty repairs. One example of proof would be to present a repair estimate done within the 5 year and 50,000 mile period.
6. What if my Toyota Prius' headlights have not gone out?
Although the headlights on some 2006-2009 Prius vehicles have not gone out, we encourage all class members to diligently monitor their headlights for flickering or turning off intermittently. Toyota has indicated that intermittent operation of HID headlights is a sign that the HID headlight bulbs are reaching the end of their useful life, so you should continue to monitor the headlights in the future.
7. Is my Prius covered by the class action settlement?
The settlement covers 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009 model year Toyota Prius vehicles originally factory equipped with genuine high intensity discharge (HID) headlights in the United States.
8. Does this class action settlement cover only 2006-2009 Toyota Prius vehicles?
Yes. The court-approved settlement can only provide assistance for the types of vehicles that were at issue in this case. Only the 2006-2009 Prius vehicles were listed in the complaint. Owners of other models or model years will not be barred by the settlement from seeking their own relief from Toyota or through other means, but will not be eligible to make a claim under the agreement.
9. What if I don’t receive Toyota Class Action Notice in the mail?
10. Does the class action settlement cover my Prius even though it was purchased used?
Yes. Class members who are otherwise eligible to take part in the settlement can do so regardless of whether their Prius is new or used. Please refer to the
Toyota Class Action Notice or the information above for more on terms of eligibility for the extended warranty and reimbursements.
