Toyota, Lexus, Subaru Recall Over 94,000 Electric Crossovers for Defrost Defect

Lead Toyota Motor Corporation and its affiliates Lexus and Subaru have issued a joint safety recall for 94,320 U.S. vehicles after discovering an HVAC software fault that may disable windshield defrost and defog functions, increasing crash risk on cold mornings.

Nut Graf The recall-announced September 11, 2025-targets 2023-2025 Toyota bZ4X, Lexus RZ300e/RZ450e and 2023-2024 Subaru Solterra models nationwide. Dealers will update HVAC control software and, if necessary, replace the electrical compressor at no cost, underscoring the automakers’ commitment to driver safety.

Affected Models and Scope

  • Toyota bZ4X (2023-2025)
  • Lexus RZ300e & RZ450e (2023-2025)
  • Subaru Solterra (2023-2024)

Combined, these electric crossovers represent the full U.S. sale volume of the models to date, totaling 94,320 vehicles.

Defect Details

The HVAC system’s electrical control unit may enter failsafe mode, causing the defroster and defogger to cease operation. Without a working windshield heating function, driver visibility can be compromised by frost or fog, elevating accident risk on cold or wet roads.

Remedy and Owner Notification

  • Software Update: Dealers will reprogram the HVAC control unit to eliminate the fail-safe condition.
  • Component Replacement: If the compressor shows signs of malfunction, it will be replaced free of charge.
  • Notification Timeline: Owner letters are expected to mail by October 20, 2025.

Vehicle owners can confirm recall status using their VIN at Toyota.com/recall, Lexus.com/recall or nhtsa.gov/recalls and schedule service through any authorized dealer.

Dealer Instructions and Customer Support

Authorized Toyota, Lexus and Subaru dealerships will receive detailed repair instructions immediately and are prepared to handle the anticipated service volume. For questions, owners may call:

  • Toyota: 1-800-331-4331
  • Lexus: 1-800-255-3987
  • Subaru: 1-844-373-6614

Context and Safety Commitment

This recall follows Toyota’s ongoing efforts to address safety issues promptly. It complements a separate September 10 recall affecting 591,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles for instrument-panel blanking at startup. Together, these actions reflect the automakers’ proactive stance on maintaining fleet safety and quality.