Subaru Solterra Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2023-2025 model years · Based on 1,320+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,320+ owner reports, the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious is Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24) ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is DC Fast Charging Failures and Slow Charging Speeds with 560 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $350. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 3 Known Issues
The Subaru Solterra (shared platform with Toyota bZ4X) was subject to a critical safety recall for hub bolts that can loosen during driving, potentially causing wheel detachment. The issue stems from the hub bolt design combined with repeated hard braking or driving on rough roads. Low bolt torque retention allows bolts to progressively loosen. This recall halted sales and deliveries of both Solterra and bZ4X for several months in 2022-2023. Subaru recall WRN-24 (NHTSA 22V-568) covers free inspection and repair.
Common Symptoms
- Clicking or knocking sound from wheel area
- Vibration from wheel at any speed
- Visible looseness of wheel
- Wheel wobble during driving
- Lug nut torque loss detected during tire rotation
How to Fix
This is a mandatory safety recall (WRN-24 / NHTSA 22V-568). Take the vehicle to a Subaru dealer immediately for free inspection and repair. The recall fix involves replacing hub bolts with updated design and re-torquing to revised specifications. Do not drive the vehicle if you notice any wheel looseness or unusual sounds. Check recall status at subaru.com/owners/recalls.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 340+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- Tip
Solterra owners report frequent DC fast charging (CCS) session failures, where the vehicle stops charging prematurely, fails to initiate a charging session, or charges at significantly reduced speeds. The Solterra's maximum DC fast charge rate is 150 kW, but many owners report being limited to 40-80 kW even on high-powered chargers. Cold battery temperatures, software bugs, and charger compatibility issues all contribute. The battery thermal management system (air-cooled on early models, liquid-cooled added later) limits charging speed in hot and cold conditions.
Common Symptoms
- DC fast charging session failing to start
- Charging stopping prematurely before target SOC
- Charging speed significantly below 150 kW maximum
- Error messages on charger display
- Vehicle not recognized by certain charger networks
- Very slow charging in cold weather (below 40F)
How to Fix
Update to latest vehicle software at Subaru dealer - multiple OTA and dealer-applied updates have improved charging compatibility. Pre-condition the battery by using the climate system while plugged in before departing for a DC fast charge session. For cold weather, use the scheduled departure feature to warm the battery. If charging fails, try a different charger brand - Electrify America and ChargePoint have best compatibility. Level 2 (240V) home charging is more reliable.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 560+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- Tip
Despite being an EV with a large high-voltage battery, the Solterra relies on a small 12V auxiliary battery to power control modules and enable the vehicle to 'start.' This 12V battery drains quickly when the vehicle sits for more than 5-7 days, or when various modules fail to enter sleep mode properly. A dead 12V battery means the vehicle cannot be powered on, doors may not unlock, and the charging port won't open - even with a fully charged main battery. Multiple software updates have attempted to address module sleep behavior.
Common Symptoms
- Vehicle won't power on after sitting 5-7 days
- Doors won't unlock with key fob
- Dashboard completely dead - no lights or displays
- Charging port lid won't open
- 12V battery warning message before shutdown
- Clock and settings resetting
How to Fix
Update to latest vehicle software - multiple updates address 12V battery management. If the 12V battery is dead, it can be jump-started from the 12V battery located under the hood (not the main HV battery). Install a trickle charger (CTEK MXS 5.0 or Battery Tender Plus) for extended storage. Subaru recommends driving or plugging in the vehicle at least once weekly. If 12V battery fails repeatedly, have dealer test and replace with updated AGM battery.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 420+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- Tip
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru Solterra problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,320+ owner reports, the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24), DC Fast Charging Failures and Slow Charging Speeds, 12V Auxiliary Battery Drain - Vehicle Won't Power On. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Solterra reliable?
The 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra has 3 known issues documented across 1,320+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Solterra problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru Solterra issues range from $0 to $350, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
Get DIY Repair Guides for Your Subaru Solterra
AI-powered step-by-step repair and maintenance guides tailored to your exact vehicle. Enter your year, make, and model to get started.
Get Started Free