A global safety warning
Almost 94,000 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru vehicles have a new recall that is causing safety concerns among drivers and passengers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued the recall on September 5 and covers cars from model years 2023 to 2025. The problem’s cause is a malfunctioning heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that will malfunction at the worst possible moment, making driving conditions dangerous.
Why the recall
Toyota, the owner of Lexus and an investor in Subaru, discovered that a few of its models had HVAC systems with a risk of electrical compressor failure. When the compressor fails, the defroster and defogger of the vehicle will not function. That might not be so terrible, but not being able to de-ice or de-fog fogged windshields seriously disables visibility. That increases the danger of a crash, especially in adverse weather when visibility is a function of clear windshields.
The fix, under the notice of recall, is easy: dealers will flash new software for the HVAC system and, if needed, replace faulty parts free of charge. But during the interim, recalled cars represent a higher-than-normal collision risk.
Which cars are affected
The recall includes about 94,000 vehicles in three top-selling electric vehicles:
- Toyota bZ4X (2023–2025)
- Lexus RZ (2023–2025)
- Subaru Solterra (2023–2025)
These cars, which debuted in recent years, represent Toyota’s and Subaru’s foray into electric vehicles. The fact that they are being recalled shows the struggle automakers are having as they introduce more advanced technology.
Notification timeline for owners
The owners of cars that are being recalled must be notified officially by mail no later than October 20, 2025. The notices will specify the problem, give directions on how to proceed, and tell drivers to take their car to a nearby dealership to be repaired.
Drivers seeking more information in advance can call the customer service phone numbers:
- Toyota: 1-800-331-4331 (Use recall numbers 25TB07 and 25TA07 for the bZ4X.)
- Lexus: 1-800-331-4331 (Use recall numbers 25LB04 and 25LA04 for the RZ.)
- Subaru: Notice of recall number WRD-25 for the Solterra
What owners need to do immediately
If your vehicle is affected by this recall, the best thing to do is to book an appointment with a Toyota, Lexus, or Subaru authorized dealer as soon as the repair program starts. Dealers will:
- Update your HVAC system software.
- Check your vehicle’s electrical compressor.
- Replace the compressor if needed.
All maintenance will be accomplished at no cost to the owner. Drivers are cautioned not to procrastinate the maintenance since compromised defroster function can create extensive threats, particularly with colder weather ahead of us.
Checking your vehicle for recalls
Even if you don’t know if your vehicle has been recalled, it is simple to check for recalls and takes only a minute or two. The NHTSA recall database can be searched using the license plate number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is the most up-to-date and best recall information possible.
USA TODAY also has a car recall database that helps drivers determine if their car, or even parts and accessories, have been subject to active safety recalls.
Part of a wave of ongoing recalls
This Toyota-Lexus-Subaru recall is just one of many safety initiatives sweeping the auto market in 2025. In the past few weeks alone, companies like Ford, GM, Honda, Dodge, and Mercedes-Benz have collectively recalled tens of millions of vehicles for defects ranging from engine failure to faulty airbags. The recalls are a testament to the complexity of new vehicles, which are packed with advanced electronics and safety devices that can fail in unexpected ways.
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Staying vigilant as a driver
Recalls are a nuisance, but they’re essential to driver safety. Companies have a legal obligation to fix the issues at no cost, but owners must have their cars brought in for repair. Ignoring a recall places you, your passengers, and other drivers and pedestrians unnecessarily in danger.
For owners of the Subaru Solterra, Lexus RZ, and Toyota bZ4X, this recall is a welcome reminder of just how much ongoing engagement with dealerships and manufacturers can pay dividends. It’s a good reminder that quick reaction keeps your vehicle safe to drive—no matter the weather or road conditions.
