Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru halt sales, recall 100,000 EVs in the U.S. over windshield defroster failure
Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru are pausing sales of select electric vehicles and recalling about 100,000 units in the United States to fix a safety issue that can make winter driving hazardous. The affected models can experience a windshield defroster failure caused by an electrical control unit (ECU) software problem, potentially leaving frost, ice, or fog on the glass. Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash, especially in cold climates.
According to the companies, these EVs use dual heat sources for defrosting, but under certain fault conditions both heat sources can be disabled, preventing proper clearing of the windshield. The issue came to light after an inquiry from Transport Canada.
Who is affected
– Toyota bZ4X
– Lexus RZ 300e
– Lexus RZ 450e
– Subaru Solterra (model years 2023–2025)
Toyota says roughly 62,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles are included in that portion of the recall, with Subaru’s Solterra bringing the combined total to around 100,000 EVs.
What owners should do
– Schedule a visit with a Toyota, Lexus, or Subaru dealer. Dealers will update the ECU software at no cost.
– If needed, the electric HVAC compressor will also be replaced free of charge.
– Owners will be notified by mail, with Toyota indicating customer notifications will begin by early November 2025.
– Drivers can check their vehicle’s status using the manufacturer’s recall lookup tools or through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website.
Why it matters
A properly functioning windshield defroster is critical for safe driving in winter. Because the failure can disable both heat sources, drivers may be unable to clear the windshield in freezing or foggy conditions. Until the repair is completed, owners in cold-weather regions should be especially cautious and consider limiting driving in severe conditions.
Key takeaways
– Stop-sale and recall impact approximately 100,000 electric vehicles in the U.S.
– Root cause is an ECU software fault affecting the windshield defroster.
– Free software update and, if necessary, HVAC compressor replacement at dealerships.
– Notifications begin by early November 2025, with status checks available via automaker and federal recall portals.
If you own a Toyota bZ4X, Lexus RZ, or Subaru Solterra from the affected years, book a service appointment as soon as possible to ensure your EV is ready for safe winter driving.
