Why is Toyota bZ4X being recalled?
In brief, Toyota is recalling certain bZ4X models because a wheel lug torque issue could cause lug nuts to loosen and the wheel to detach, creating a serious safety risk.
The recall, announced in 2022 in coordination with Subaru for the related Solterra model, covers specific 2022 model-year SUVs built in a defined production window. Toyota and Subaru say the fix involves inspecting and correcting wheel lug torque, seating of the wheel, and, if needed, replacing components. Owners should verify whether their vehicle is affected using official recall resources, and all remediation is performed free of charge at dealerships.
What triggered the recall
The safety action was prompted after investigators found that some wheels on the affected vehicles might not have been tightened to the manufacturer’s required torque during production. If lug nuts are not properly tightened, a wheel can loosen or detach while the vehicle is in motion, presenting a crash risk to occupants and other road users.
Affected models and scope
The recall targets a subset of 2022 Toyota bZ4X SUVs and the related Subaru Solterra models. The exact VIN ranges and production dates vary by market, and Toyota/Subaru have published updated guidance to help owners determine if their vehicle is part of the campaign.
To address the issue, dealers will perform a series of inspections and adjustments designed to restore proper wheel torque and seating. This includes verifying fastener tightness and, if necessary, replacing hardware or wheels to ensure safe operation.
The goal of the recall is to eliminate the torque-and-seating discrepancy and reduce the probability of wheel detachment under normal driving conditions.
Owners should not assume their vehicle is unaffected without checking official sources. The recall process is designed to be thorough and performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Dealers will contact involved customers or customers can proactively check recall status through official channels to schedule service as soon as possible.
How to check if your vehicle is affected and what to do
To determine whether your bZ4X is included in the recall and to arrange the free service, follow the steps below. This guidance also applies to the nearby Solterra models in the Subaru lineup, which share the same underlying wheel-torque concern.
Steps to verify status and proceed with remedies:
- Locate your vehicle’s VIN. The VIN is typically found on the driver’s side dashboard, the driver’s door jamb, or your vehicle registration documents.
- Visit the official recall pages for Toyota (or Subaru) or use the NHTSA recall search, and enter your VIN to see if there is an open recall related to wheel lug torque for the bZ4X (and Solterra).
- If the system indicates recall coverage, contact your nearest Toyota or Subaru dealer to schedule the free service. Do not drive the vehicle if you notice obvious wheel looseness or abnormal vibration until it has been inspected.
- At the dealership, technicians will inspect lug nuts, wheel studs, and wheel seating, re-torque to specification, and replace any components as needed to restore safe operation.
- After service, obtain and keep the recall service documentation for your records, and confirm that all recall tasks were completed to specification.
Note: The recall process is free of charge for affected owners, and dealers are obligated to perform the remedy under the safety campaign. For the most accurate and current information, consult official recall notices and your vehicle’s VIN status.
What owners should do now
If you own a bZ4X (or a Solterra) and are unsure whether your vehicle is affected, act promptly to confirm status and arrange remediation. Early action helps prevent any potential wheel-related incidents on public roads.
Key actions include:
- Check your VIN against official recall listings and monitor notices from Toyota or Subaru for updates.
- Schedule the recall service with an authorized dealer if your VIN matches or if an advisory appears, and ensure the service is performed at no cost.
- Avoid driving if you notice unusual handling, pulling to one side, or wheel vibration—contact your dealer for guidance.
- Keep the service records and any recall documentation for future reference or resale.
In short, the recall is centered on ensuring wheel assemblies are torqued and seated correctly to prevent wheel detachment. Owners should verify status and complete the authorized repair as soon as possible.
Summary
The Toyota bZ4X recall addresses a wheel-lug torque issue identified during manufacturing that could lead to a wheel detachment and increased crash risk. The remedy involves inspections, re-torquing, and potential component replacements performed free of charge at Toyota (and Subaru) dealerships. Owners should verify recall status via official channels and book service promptly to restore wheel integrity and safety on the road.
