Windshield Defroster Issues Affecting Toyota, Lexus, Subaru Electric Crossovers
A trio of related electric crossovers are now the subject of a joint recall due to a possible windshield defroster issue.
Affected models are the 2023-2025 Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ as well as the 2023-2024 Subaru Solterra. The recall includes over 21,600 units in Canada—essentially every single one that’s been sold to this day.
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More specifically, a software problem in an electrical control unit could cause the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system to enter a failsafe mode. As a result, the heater could stop working and the windshield defroster may therefore not work properly, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
According to the recall notice, this problem could also cause an "EV System Malfunction" or "Drive Start Control Malfunction" message to display.
For all affected vehicles, dealers will update the programming of the HVAC system’s electrical control unit. Also, and if necessary, they will replace the electrical HVAC compressor. Customers will be notified about this issue through the mail by early November.
As for the updated and improved 2026 Toyota bZ, 2026 Lexus RZ and 2026 Subaru Solterra, they will hit the market later this year and are not affected in any way. The Car Guide had the opportunity to drive each one of them for the first time in recent weeks, and we invite you to read our respective reviews by clicking on the links.