More than 20,000 Toyota, Lexus, Subaru SUVs recalled for defroster issue

This is a wheel on a Subaru Solterra automobile on display at the Pittsburgh International Auto Show in Pittsburgh, Feb. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Transport Canada has announced recalls on 20,000 Toyota, Lexus and Subaru SUVs over problems affecting the vehicles’ windshield defrosters.

Last updated Tuesday, the recalls impact Toyota BZ4X and Lexus RZ models from 2023 to 2025, as well as 2023 and 2024 Subaru Solterras.

According to the Transport Canada notice, affected models may encounter a software glitch that switches the vehicles’ heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system to a “failsafe mode,” potentially impairing the windshield defrosters and reducing visibility.

The notices warn that this could “increase the risk of a crash.”

Owners of recalled vehicles are advised that the issue may be identified by an error message reading either “EV System Malfunction” or “Drive Start Control Malfunction,” but that in any case, the manufacturers will contact them by mail to schedule an appointment to update the HVAC system’s software.

If necessary, the vehicle’s electrical compressor may also be replaced, the notices say.

A similar recall on the same Toyota, Lexus and Subaru models has been issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, impacting a further 94,000 vehicles.

For more information on the recalls, owners may contact Toyota at 1-888-869-6828 and Subaru at 1-800-894-4212.