What is the problem with the bZ4X?

In short: the bZ4X’s major problem was a safety recall tied to a wheel-fastening hardware issue that could loosen and lead to a wheel detaching, prompting inspections, repairs, and a pause in some shipments. The issue affected the bZ4X and its Subaru Solterra sibling, highlighting the risks automakers face when launching new BEV platforms.

The recall: how the problem surfaced

Root cause

The core risk centered on wheel fasteners (lug nuts and related hub components) that were not torqued correctly during manufacturing. If the fasteners loosened, a wheel could detach while the vehicle was in motion, creating a dangerous driving scenario.

Scope of the recall

The recall covered the Toyota bZ4X (model years around 2022–2023) and the Subaru Solterra from roughly the same time frame, with tens of thousands of vehicles affected across multiple markets.

Key facts about the recall

• The safety risk was potential wheel detachment due to insufficiently tightened lug nuts/hub bolts.


• Affected models were the bZ4X and the Solterra from the early BEV launch years.


• Remedial steps included inspections, replacement of components as needed, and re-torquing to specification.


• Owners were advised to stop driving affected vehicles until an official inspection could be performed.

The recalls were part of a broader push to ensure reliability and safety as two brands rolled out electric crossovers in a competitive BEV market. Manufacturers coordinated with safety agencies and dictated dealer-centered service campaigns to address the risk.

Company response and current status

Remedial actions

In response to the defect, Toyota and Subaru issued a global safety recall, instructed dealers to inspect affected vehicles, and performed necessary repairs—often involving wheel or fastener replacements and a re-torque to the correct specification. The initiative also prompted improvements to manufacturing quality controls to prevent a recurrence.

What this meant for owners and the market

• Owners of affected bZ4X and Solterra models were asked to bring their vehicles to a dealer for inspection and service.


• Dealers carried out inspections and, where needed, replaced wheels, hubs, or fasteners and re-torqued wheel assemblies to specification.


• Manufacturers delayed or adjusted shipments as the recall campaign rolled out and production processes were updated to prevent recurrence.

Today, the wheel-detachment risk has been addressed through the recall program and enhanced quality controls. Owners should verify recall status with their local Toyota or Subaru dealer and complete any required service if they own one of the affected vehicles.

Additional context: BEV launches and ongoing considerations

Beyond the wheel issue, the bZ4X and Solterra entered a crowded BEV marketplace with ongoing attention to range, charging infrastructure, and software reliability. Early reviews noted typical BEV launch-era tradeoffs, such as range under real-world conditions and the adaptation of new vehicle platforms to rapid electrification. Since the recall, both brands have worked to stabilize the models and expand their electrified lineups.

Summary

The most significant problem for the bZ4X was a wheel-fastening defect that created a risk of wheel detachment, prompting a global safety recall for the vehicle and its Solterra counterpart. The response involved dealer inspections, component replacements, and tightened manufacturing controls to prevent recurrence. While the recall complicated the early reception of these BEVs, the corrective actions aimed to restore safety and confidence as Toyota and Subaru press forward with electric offerings.

Why is the bZ4X not selling?

The Toyota bZ4X hasn't sold well due to a combination of factors, including a major recall for potential wheel detachment, limited driving range, slower-than-average charging speeds, and a design and price that failed to stand out against competitors. While aggressive lease incentives did boost sales significantly in 2024, the vehicle has faced a steep sales decline in 2025 due to these ongoing issues. Toyota is addressing some of these concerns in its 2026 update.
 
This video explains Toyota's financial struggles with the bZ4X model: 57sEVPediaYouTube · Jan 13, 2025
Reasons for poor sales

• Major recalls: A critical safety recall occurred where wheels could fall off, forcing Toyota to halt sales and buy back vehicles, which severely damaged consumer confidence. Another recall involved a faulty defroster. 
• Limited range and charging: Competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5 offer more competitive range, and the bZ4X's DC fast-charging capabilities were flagged as slow and road-trip unfriendly. 
• Uncompetitive pricing and design: Even after price cuts, the bZ4X was seen by some as too expensive for its performance and features. Its design was also considered bland compared to competitors. 
• Brand perception: Toyota's history of promoting hybrid vehicles and being critical of a full EV transition has made some consumers skeptical of their commitment to the EV market. 

How Toyota plans to address the issues

• Updated model: Toyota is releasing an updated 2026 model to address complaints.
• Improved range: The new model offers a significantly improved driving range of up to 314 miles, a 25% increase over the 2025 model.
• New EV models: Toyota is also slated to release new electric models like the C-HR and BZ Woodland in 2026. 

This video explains Toyota's financial struggles with the bZ4X model: 1mThe Electric VikingYouTube · Oct 8, 2025

What is the problem with the Toyota bZ4X?

Some Toyota BZ4X vehicles have been reportedly shipped with defective Engine Control Units (ECUs), which can lead to irregular engine behavior and performance problems. These ECU defects may also contribute to broader electrical or powertrain instability in the vehicle.

How long do the batteries last in a Toyota bZ4X?

The Toyota bZ4X's battery life is expected to last 8 years or 100,000 miles under its warranty, and Toyota guarantees it will retain at least 70% of its capacity for up to 10 years or 1 million kilometers with the Battery Care Program. In real-world usage, factors like extreme temperatures and charging habits can affect how long a bZ4X battery performs and lasts. 
Battery warranty and longevity

• Standard warranty: The Electric Vehicle Driving Components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. 
• Long-term guarantee: Toyota offers a Battery Care Program that extends coverage up to 10 years or 1 million kilometers, provided the car receives an annual EV Health Check. This program guarantees the battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity. 

This video explains the battery warranty for the Toyota bZ4X: 0:07Grandons Toyota CorkFacebook · Sep 10, 2025
Factors that influence battery life

• Climate: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can impact battery performance and longevity. 
• Driving habits: Consistent use is better than leaving the car unused for long periods. Some charging practices can also affect battery health. 
• Charging habits: Avoiding frequent charging to 100% and not consistently discharging to very low levels can help extend the battery's lifespan. 
• Maintenance: Regularly maintaining the battery by cleaning terminals and checking connections can prevent premature failure. 

This video discusses managing charging settings to protect the battery life: 58sToyota Vehicles with The Chris Turner ExperienceYouTube · Dec 11, 2022
Real-world range and performance

• EPA-estimated range: Varies between 222 and 252 miles depending on the trim and drivetrain. 
• Real-world range: Edmunds recorded a real-world range of 227 miles in their tests, which is lower than the EPA estimate. 
• Cold weather: In cold conditions, the range can be significantly reduced. For example, one user noted their range dropped to around 170 miles when the weather was cold, compared to the official estimate. 

Why is the Toyota bZ4X being recalled?

Nearly 95,000 electric cars are being recalled because their defrosters and defoggers may not work, which could make it difficult to see out the windshield while driving. The affected vehicles are the 2023-2025 Lexus RZ, Subaru Solterra, and Toyota bZ4x.