Without cause or reason, the "brake actuator" circuit malfunctioned causing the car to lose cruise control, ABS, anti-skid and sporadic tail light problems (lights will stay on or come on when the car is parked). I brought it to my Toyota dealer and they were unable to identify the problem. The next day, the roads were snow covered and the brakes locked up approaching an intersection causing the car to skid into another vehicle. When I brought the car back to the dealer, after the body was repaired, they located the problem and said it would cost $2900 to replace. Before I was able to have the vehicle repaired, the wiring caught fire, probably because the taillights came on by themselves during the night, as they occasionally did (without a key in the ignition). The car was towed to the Toyota dealer who estimates upwards of $10,000 for repairs to the computer and wiring system. The Toyota service manager recommends we sell the $19,000 car for "wholesale." Insurance will not cover the damage as it was a mechanical malfunction. Toyota Corp. In California, consumer experiences department, will not give me any help as the car is 21,000 over the 36,000 mile warranty. How or where can I get a lawyer or consumer advocate to help me?

- East Chatham, NY, USA