Six problems related to tail light switch have been reported for the 2008 Toyota Prius. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
High density headlight on passenger side burned out quickly, after only 2+ years of driving. Dealer garage replaced at no cost - since it was still under the full extended warranty. High density headlight on driver side went out while driving. It went back on later that day, and has been intermittent since, but mostly not working. Just started researching replacement bulb prices when I found out how many people have been having this same issue. Passenger side tail light went out. Wiggling the bulb, socket and wiring got the light working again.
Led brake tail lights too bright. Blind driver behind vehicle at night.
Both headlight bulbs will go out when the vehicle is hot. It can be one at a time or simultaneously. Additionally both tail light bulbs stopped working approximately 1 week prior. When the rear bulbs were replaced the headlight problem seemed to worsen.
Hid headlights turn off intermittently. Problem first occurred in early 2009 and a Toyota dealer replaced both headlights (one had stopped working and dealer stated the other had issues). Problem reoccurred late 2011, with either light sometimes not working, but then re-lighting by itself. Usually, turning the headlights off and back on manually will resolve the issue for a time. Also, both of the tail lights will sometimes stop working. Usually, if I take the cover off from the inside and turn the light socket (where it snaps into the plastic molding) the light will turn back on. Unfortunately, I can't tell how often I am driving with one or both tail lights not functioning, as I don't look at the back of the car often. I have found them non-functioning 3 times in the last 3 months, and each time the bulb was fine and began working when I turned the socket back and forth.
I purchased my Prius new. I have had a chronic & constant issue with my head lights & tail lights not working properly. I have had this issue checked by mechanics and have been told this is a "Toyota electrical issue". There is no problem with the bulbs or components that can be found by mechanics. This is a dangerous problem, and occurs randomly without notice. My head lights or tail lights just "go out". . . Any time, anywhere! I have spoken with other Toyota Prius owners (other years too), and they have the same problems.
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that the bulbs blow out each month in the headlights and tail lights. The bulbs were replaced three times each. The current mileage was 91,000 and failure mileage was 3,000.