My MFD (Touch Screen) has gone blank on my 2009 Prius (out of warranty). I haven't had it diagnosed yet, but if I need it replaced, I'd like to know my options. I've read upwards of $5000 for OE down to low $100s for refurbished units. I've also read that some Toyota dealers are aware of the problem and will replace it for a reasonable price (< $1000?). It's also been hinted that this may be a possible recall item. Does anybody know the whole story? Needless to say, I'm not happy, and am prepared to go to war over this with Toyota. Time is on my side - I can still drive the car. I just need ammunition.
Wow, no replies so far? Let me tell you what I've heard/read. IIRC, the MFD on the 04 and 05 had problems that were due to cold solder joints. A guy that used to be on here (but has since bought a Leaf) named Peef, used to fix them. I have heard of no problems with 06 and above and especially not 09. Read this post (TSB EL002-05 Multi-Display Functions are Inoperative | PriusChat) Also read this (Prius MFD)
I own an 06' Prius and my MFD failed after four years. I've asked about the Type II refurb MFD reliability and Type III MFD reliability on this web site and received no replies. There are other threads talking about MFD problems here. Additionally, there was a TSB on Jan. 05 regarding the MFD failure. Another poster here claims that was just for 04 and 05 models. I did not see anything on the TSB stating that. My dealer wanted $1500 to replace the MFD with a refurb. I ended up paying $600 after showing them the TSB. My refurb is 2 1/2 years old and I've noticed it blinked a couple of times so I concerned it may be failing as well. There is a good post regarding a DIY fix from the person who mentioned the TSB was for 04 and 05 models. See the post from JeffD. Here's that link... 2004 Multi Function Display Issues - Help! | PriusChat
The MFD died on my '06 this month (85K miles). It occasionally zombies up for an hour or so at the most. I haven't had good dealer experiences so I doubt my locals will be willing to help out with a refurb. Luscious Garage (San Francisco) tells me they can get one and install it for a total cost of under a grand (it would be less but apparently mine is a bit of a rarity since it doesn't have nav). For now, I'm doing without and learning more about the finer points of the steering wheel controls, but I do really miss the backup cam and bluetooth. FWIW, 12v battery was replaced less than a year ago.
The MFD on our 2009 is going out also. SOmetimes it's there, then it looks like an Etch-a- Sketch, then it's blank. Car has under 35k and is out of warranty. If any one has info on Toyota and warranty, please post it. As of now I'm going to be looking for one out of a local salvage yard.
Get ahold of Steve at Autobeyours.com. He probably has some for a good price plus he has great instructions on how to remove them.
I also have a 2009 with failed mfd. Trying to save money on replacement. Anyone know if I can downgrade to a non-nav from nav? Always hated Toyota nav anyway. Thanks for any advice.
Update. Toyota dealer new replacement $4000 plus labor/1 year warranty Toyota dealer remanufactured unit $1300 + $160 labor /1 year warrantW Web remanufactured unit $750 labor is on me/1 year warranty Used replacement from LKQ $275.15 + 68.79 for a 2 year warranty and labor is on me. total $344. We went for LQK. Of course on Friday when I was going to install the replacement, the original started working again. See how long it will go this time around.
