
Toyota has issued a recall affecting approximately 21,000 electric vehicles, including models from Lexus and Subaru, due to a potentially faulty electronic control unit (ECU) that could cause a loss of power and increase the likelihood of a crash. The recall includes the Toyota bZ, Subaru Solterra, and Lexus RZ models, all of which are built on the same e-TNGA platform. Despite this setback, Toyota's electric SUV, the bZ, has gotten off to a strong start in the US market, ranking as the third-most popular electric vehicle in the first quarter behind the Tesla Model Y and Model 3.
Although the recall does not specifically mention Canadian pricing or availability, it is likely that Canadian owners of these models will be affected. The recall includes 11,495 Toyota bZ models, 4,757 Subaru Solterra models, and 4,739 Lexus RZ models. Canadian owners can expect to receive notification letters in the coming weeks, with the option to take their vehicles to the closest dealer for a free update to the battery ECU. It is worth noting that Canadian owners may be eligible for incentives such as the iZEV program, which offers a rebate of up to $5,000 for the purchase of eligible electric vehicles.
If you are a Canadian owner of one of the affected models, you can contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331 to inquire about the recall and schedule an appointment with your local dealer. You can also visit the Transport Canada website for more information on vehicle recalls and safety notices. Additionally, some provinces may offer rebates or incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, such as the Ontario government's Electric Vehicle Incentive Program, which offers a rebate of up to $1,000 for the purchase of an eligible electric vehicle.
For more information on the recall, including the recall numbers (26LA07 and 26TA11 for Toyota, and WRG26 for Subaru), you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or contact their safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236. Canadian owners can also stay informed about vehicle recalls and safety notices by visiting the Transport Canada website or contacting their local dealer. As the Canadian electric vehicle market continues to grow, with many models offering a driving range of over 500 kilometres, it is essential for owners to stay informed about any potential issues that may affect their vehicle's performance and safety.