According to Au7o's analysis of 1,320+ owner reports, the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra has 24 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24) ($0-$0 repair), Wheel Hub Bolt Loosening (Recall 23V-085) ($0-$0 repair), Recall 25V577000: Defroster and Defogger Can Stop Working During an HVAC Fault, HVAC Electric A/C Compressor Fault Disables Defroster/Defogger (Recall 25V577 / WRD-25), EV System Malfunction / Drive-Start Control Warning and No-Start / Power Loss and Rearview (Panoramic View Monitor) Camera Freezes or Goes Blank in Reverse (Recall 25V744 / WRE25). The most commonly reported issue is DC Fast Charging Failures and Slow Charging Speeds with 560 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $1,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2026 Toyota BZ, Lexus RZ, and Subaru Solterra battery electric vehicles. The electronic control unit (ECU) that controls the high voltage battery may experience a fault, resulting in a loss of drive power.
Campaign #26V39300018/06/2026
WHEELS:HUB
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Subaru Solterra and Toyota BZ4X vehicles. The hub bolts on the wheels may loosen, causing a wheel to detach from the vehicle after low-mileage use.
Campaign #22V44400023/06/2022
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2025 bZ4X, Lexus RZ, and Subaru Solterra vehicles. During certain HVAC system faults, such as electrical compressor failure, the defroster and defogger system may become inoperative.
Campaign #25V57700004/09/2025
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What are the most common Subaru Solterra problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,320+ owner reports, the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra has 24 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24), Wheel Hub Bolt Loosening (Recall 23V-085), Recall 25V577000: Defroster and Defogger Can Stop Working During an HVAC Fault. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Solterra reliable?
The 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra has 24 known issues documented across 1,320+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24) and Wheel Hub Bolt Loosening (Recall 23V-085) and Recall 25V577000: Defroster and Defogger Can Stop Working During an HVAC Fault and HVAC Electric A/C Compressor Fault Disables Defroster/Defogger (Recall 25V577 / WRD-25) and EV System Malfunction / Drive-Start Control Warning and No-Start / Power Loss and Rearview (Panoramic View Monitor) Camera Freezes or Goes Blank in Reverse (Recall 25V744 / WRE25). 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 $1,800, 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.
What year Subaru Solterra is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Subaru Solterra. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra with 24 documented issues documented across 1,320+ owner reports.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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Community reported
340 owners
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.
Owner tips & cautions
TipCheck NHTSA.gov for active recalls — repairs are performed free at authorized dealers
High Confidence340 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
The Solterra was subject to a stop-sale and recall (NHTSA 23V-085) for hub bolts that can loosen during driving. The hub bolts connecting the wheel hub assembly to the steering knuckle were not properly torqued from the factory, and the bolt material specification was found to be insufficient for the vehicle weight. Loose hub bolts can cause the wheel to separate from the vehicle. Subaru halted sales and deliveries of the Solterra for several months while developing a fix.
Common Symptoms
Clunking or clicking noise from wheel area
Steering wheel vibration that worsens over time
Visible wheel wobble
Uneven tire wear on one corner
Recall notice letter from Subaru
How to Fix
Have the dealer inspect and retorque all hub bolts to the updated specification. If any bolts show signs of stretching or thread damage, they must be replaced with the updated higher-grade bolts. This recall repair is free at any Subaru dealer. Do not drive the vehicle if you notice any wheel wobble or clunking from the wheel area — have it towed to the dealer. Check your VIN at recalls.subaru.com to confirm recall completion.
Owner tips & cautions
TipCheck NHTSA.gov for active recalls — repairs are performed free at authorized dealers
A software error in the Panoramic View Monitor system can cause the backup camera to freeze on a prior frame or show a blank screen when reverse is selected, especially shortly after ignition-on or a quick off/on cycle. The loss of a live rear image makes the vehicle non-compliant with FMVSS 111 'Rear Visibility' and increases back-over risk.
Common Symptoms
Black or blank screen when shifting into reverse
Frozen / static backup camera image
Backup camera does not display on first ignition cycle
Intermittent loss of rear-view image while backing
How to Fix
Recall 25V744 (Subaru WRE25), part of a ~1,024,407-vehicle Toyota/Lexus/Subaru campaign: dealers reprogram the parking-assist/PVM software free of charge. Interim owner letters mailed December 16, 2025, with final remedy letters in early January 2026.
The Subaru Solterra is built alongside its Toyota counterpart, and 2023-2025 Solterras equipped with the Panoramic View Monitor are included in NHTSA recall 25V744000 - a campaign filed by Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing that also covers a range of Toyota and Lexus models. A software error may cause the Solterra's rearview camera to freeze or show a blank screen when the vehicle is placed in reverse, meaning it does not comply with FMVSS 111, "Rear Visibility." Toyota states the consequence as a reduced view behind the vehicle and an increased risk of a crash. The campaign-wide total is roughly 1,024,407 vehicles across all brands involved.
Common Symptoms
Reverse camera image freezes on screen
Blank display when shifting into reverse
Panoramic View Monitor shows no view behind the vehicle
How to Fix
The parking assist software update is performed free of charge by a dealer. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25 (Toyota tracks it as 25TB13 and 25LB06), and owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026 - so bring the Subaru campaign number with you when booking. Confirm your Solterra's status by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; the customer service line listed for the campaign is 1-800-331-4331.
EyeSight-equipped Subarus including the Solterra are subject to NHTSA complaints and a class-action lawsuit (preliminarily settled in 2025) alleging the pre-collision/automatic emergency braking system can brake hard with no real obstacle ('phantom braking'), particularly on curves or where the camera misreads hillsides or shadows. Unexpected hard braking at speed risks rear-end collisions.
Common Symptoms
Sudden hard braking with clear road ahead
False pre-collision / forward-collision warnings
Braking events on curves or mountain roads
Adaptive cruise control unexpectedly slowing or braking
Whiplash to occupants from abrupt braking
How to Fix
Report each event to NHTSA and the dealer so it can be tied to a VIN; dealers can apply EyeSight/driver-assist software reprogramming (Subaru issued reprogramming bulletins for 2022-2024 models addressing pre-collision errors). The class-action settlement extends warranty coverage for pre-collision braking, rear automatic braking, and lane-keep failures. Pre-collision braking can be temporarily disabled via the menu on roads that repeatedly trigger false events.
Separate from the pre-collision phantom-braking complaints, owners report the EyeSight lane-centering/lane-keep assist wandering or 'ping-ponging' back and forth between lane markers, especially on faded or poorly painted roads and in construction zones. The system can hug one line, correct hard toward the other, and repeat, undermining confidence in the highway-assist feature that is a core selling point.
Common Symptoms
Car steers side-to-side within the lane
Lane centering hunts on faded markings
Sudden corrections near lane lines
System disengages in construction zones
How to Fix
Keep the windshield/camera area clean and the software updated; recalibration or a camera aim check at the dealer can help if the wander is severe. Owners often disable lane-centering (while keeping lane-departure warning) on poorly marked roads. Report persistent behavior to the dealer so it can be logged against any EyeSight software update.
Subaru is recalling 2023-2025 Solterra models under NHTSA campaign 25V577000 (Subaru's own recall number is WRD-25). On the Solterra, defrosting and defogging are handled by the same climate system that heats and cools the cabin, so when that system suffers certain HVAC faults - the recall specifically calls out failure of the electrical compressor - the defroster and defogger can become inoperative. NHTSA's consequence statement is straightforward: with no working defroster or defogger, the driver's visibility can be reduced in certain driving conditions, which raises the risk of a crash. The campaign is shared with Toyota's bZ4X and the Lexus RZ, which are built on the same platform as the Solterra; the 94,320 units NHTSA lists cover the entire campaign across all three vehicles, not the Solterra alone.
Common Symptoms
Windshield defroster does not clear fog or frost
Defogger does not clear condensation from the glass
Reduced visibility through the windshield or windows while driving
Climate system fault, such as a failed electrical compressor
How to Fix
The fix is free at a Subaru dealer. The dealer reprograms the HVAC control ECU with updated software, and also inspects the electrical compressor, replacing it at no charge if the inspection shows it is needed. Owner notification letters for this campaign went out October 17, 2025. If you own a 2023-2025 Solterra and are not sure whether yours is included or whether the work has already been done, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls - that check is free and reflects Subaru's own records. Subaru's recall number is WRD-25; Toyota's customer service line for the shared campaign is 1-800-331-4331.
A software error in the Solterra's HVAC control unit can leave the windshield defroster and defogger inoperative after an electric A/C compressor fault, reducing visibility in cold or humid conditions. Subaru's bulletin ties the compressor fault to metal contamination of the compressor/drier, sometimes requiring full compressor replacement.
Common Symptoms
Defroster and defogger stop working in cold weather
Heater blows cold / no climate output
A/C blows warm
Climate control warning or HVAC failsafe message
Compressor noise before failure
How to Fix
Recall 25V577 (Subaru WRD-25, ~94,320 vehicles across Solterra/bZ4X/Lexus RZ): dealers install updated HVAC control ECU software free of charge and inspect the electric A/C compressor, replacing the compressor and drier assembly if a fault is found. Owner notification letters began mailing around October 20, 2025.
Solterra owners in cold climates report the cabin heating is slow to warm up and often blows cool air from the vents while driving in freezing temperatures. The 2023 model relies on a high-draw (7 kW-plus) resistance heater that hammers range; 2024+ added a heat pump primarily to warm the battery, but owners still describe the cabin heat pump as undersized or slow. Dealers commonly tell owners the slow heating is 'normal operation.' A subset of cases involve a genuine fault - a stuck heat-pump expansion valve or A/C-compressor problem - producing no heat at all. This heavily impacts winter usability and drives the cold-weather range complaints.
Common Symptoms
Cold air from vents in freezing weather
Very slow cabin warm-up
Heater never gets hot
Dealer says slow heat is normal
Poor winter efficiency tied to heating load
How to Fix
Precondition the cabin while plugged in so the pack, not the battery, powers initial heat; use seat and steering-wheel heaters as the primary heat source to save range. If the vents blow cold and never warm (as opposed to just slow), have the dealer diagnose the heat-pump/electric compressor circuit - stuck valves or a failed electric A/C compressor are covered under warranty (and a separate recall covers a compressor fault that disables the defroster). Keep HVAC software updated.
Owners report sudden 'EV System Malfunction' and 'Drive-Start Control System Malfunction' warnings, sometimes with loss of the range estimate, disabled S-pedal, and in some cases a no-start or reduced-power state that can strand the driver. Subaru service bulletins link many events to an electric A/C compressor fault contaminating the system with metal debris; others clear only after a dealer software reset.
Common Symptoms
'EV System Malfunction' message
'Drive-Start Control System Malfunction' message
Vehicle will not enter READY / no-start
Range estimate and power/regen gauges go blank while driving
S-pedal one-pedal driving disabled
Reduced power / limp mode
How to Fix
Have the dealer pull EV system fault codes and apply the latest battery-management/drive-control software. Where an A/C compressor fault is the root cause, the compressor and drier assembly are replaced (overlapping recall 25V577). A dead vehicle requires dealer diagnostics rather than a simple jump-start; compressor parts have been frequently back-ordered.
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.
Medium Confidence560 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
420 owners
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.
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 you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
CTEK MXS 5.0 12V Battery Charger and Maintainer
optional storage maintainer after compatibility confirmation, not a cure for parasitic drain Fitment/availability: 12-volt WET, MF, Ca/Ca, AGM, EFB or GEL lead-acid batteries from 1.2-110Ah for charging and up to 160Ah for maintenance; v…
High Confidence420 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
The Solterra shares its e-TNGA platform with the Toyota bZ4X and inherits its conservative battery thermal management. DC fast charging speeds peak at approximately 100 kW initially but rapidly taper as the battery warms up, with real-world 10-80% charge times often exceeding 60 minutes — significantly longer than competing EVs. In warm ambient temperatures (above 85°F), the system throttles charging further to protect battery longevity, sometimes reducing charge rate to 25-30 kW.
Common Symptoms
DC fast charging slower than expected based on 150 kW spec
Charge rate dropping significantly above 50% state of charge
Extended charging times in warm weather
Battery temperature warning during fast charging
Charging session limiting to 30 kW despite capable charger
How to Fix
Precondition the battery for fast charging using the navigation system (set a DC fast charger as your destination and the car will thermally prepare the battery). Charge during cooler parts of the day when possible. Software updates have improved the charging curve modestly — ensure the vehicle has the latest firmware. For daily use, rely on home Level 2 charging overnight. If fast charging speed is critical, this is a known platform limitation that cannot be fully resolved through software.
Owners frequently report wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth failing to connect or dropping out. A common, repeatable pattern is CarPlay refusing to auto-reconnect after a remote start / remote climate session; other owners see spotty Bluetooth that blocks calls and audio with no consistent trigger. This is distinct from the full head-unit reboot/black-screen issue - here the infotainment is running but the phone-projection/Bluetooth link fails. Subaru has issued StarLink head-unit software updates, but many owners report only partial improvement.
Common Symptoms
Wireless CarPlay will not auto-connect after remote start
Bluetooth drops calls and audio
CarPlay disconnects randomly while driving
Phone re-pairs repeatedly
Have to reboot head unit to restore projection
How to Fix
Common owner fixes: press and hold the multimedia power button ~5 seconds to reset the head unit; after a remote start, turn off phone Wi-Fi and restart the radio to force a reconnect; delete the phone from the car's Bluetooth list and re-pair; keep the head-unit software updated. Persistent cases warrant a dealer StarLink/multimedia software reflash under warranty; a small number required head-unit replacement.
The Solterra Connect / MySubaru app is a persistent pain point: owners report the Remote Climate page failing to open (it flashes then reverts to the previous screen), scheduled preconditioning not firing, charge/state-of-charge status not updating without manual refresh, frequent crashes, constant permission re-prompts, and heavy background battery drain on the phone. Because remote preconditioning is the main mitigation for the car's weak cold-weather heat and range, an app that will not reliably start it is a widely reported, high-search issue.
Common Symptoms
Remote Climate page opens then closes immediately
Scheduled preconditioning does not start
App does not update charge status / SoC
App crashes or nags for permissions
App drains phone battery
How to Fix
Owner-level fixes: delete and reinstall the app, sign out/in, grant all requested permissions, and confirm the vehicle's data/subscription (Subaru/Solterra Connect) is active. Force-refresh the app for current SoC rather than trusting the cached value. Subaru has pushed app and telematics (DCM) updates over time; persistent remote-climate failures should be logged with Subaru Customer Care and the dealer, who can re-provision the telematics module. No hardware cost in most cases.
The recessed charge-port door on the Solterra collects rainwater and car-wash water in its cup-shaped pocket; in freezing temperatures the door freezes shut or the internal latch plunger/actuator sticks, preventing charging. Owners also report the opposite failure - a persistent 'charging port lid is open' warning and the flap not locking - as well as the connector failing to release from the port. Because it directly blocks charging in exactly the cold conditions where range is already short, it generates high owner-forum demand.
Common Symptoms
Charge port door frozen shut in cold
'Charging port lid is open' false warning
Charge door will not lock
Connector will not release from the car
Latch plunger stuck
How to Fix
In freezing weather, warm the area or pour warm (not hot) water to thaw, then work the small internal plunger (press/rotate 90 degrees) to free the latch. For a stuck connector or 'won't release,' use the manual charge-connector release pull tab located under the hood (top-right corner facing the windshield). If the door will not lock/latch or the actuator is unresponsive, the dealer tests the port actuator motor and wiring harness for continuity and replaces the faulty lock assembly under warranty. Preventive tip owners share: dry the port pocket before parking in the cold.
Owners report the central infotainment screen randomly going dark and rebooting (typically recovering after about 10 seconds), along with glitchy Bluetooth and dropped phone projection. The black-screen/reboot events have been reported on 2023 Solterra Touring trims and appear to be a software/memory fault, temporarily disabling navigation, audio, and climate touch controls.
Common Symptoms
Infotainment screen goes black then reboots
System restarts itself after ~10 seconds
Glitchy or dropping Bluetooth
Phone projection / app connectivity failures
Slow or unresponsive touchscreen
How to Fix
A manual head-unit reboot (hold the audio power button ~10-15 seconds) usually restores the screen; dealers can apply infotainment software updates. Keeping the app and head-unit firmware current reduces recurrence. Persistent failures after updates warrant a head-unit replacement under warranty.
The Solterra ships with low-profile original-equipment tires (18-inch on lower trims, 20-inch on Limited/Touring) that owners report are easily damaged by curbs and potholes (sidewall cuts, punctures) and can wear quickly/unevenly. One owner reported a sidewall cut all the way to the steel belt at just ~200 miles, unrepairable and requiring replacement. The vehicle carries no spare tire; instead it has an inflator-and-sealant mobility kit that owners describe as useless for a sidewall failure or any puncture larger than ~4mm or a tire off the rim. Using the sealant can foul the TPMS sensor. With no spare, a damaged tire often means a flatbed tow, and 20-inch EV-rated replacements are pricey and can be hard to source quickly.
Common Symptoms
Sidewall cut or blowout from curb/pothole at low mileage
Rapid or uneven tread wear
No spare tire; only an inflator/sealant mobility kit
Flatbed tow required after a flat
TPMS sensor damaged after using sealant
Expensive/hard-to-find 20-inch replacement tires
How to Fix
Consider proactively buying an aftermarket compact-spare kit (an 18-inch spare fits both 18-inch and 20-inch wheels). Keep a plug kit and a proper 12V inflator. For a sidewall cut, do NOT rely on the sealant kit; get a tow to a tire shop. Replace with quality EV-rated tires and maintain correct (higher) EV pressures to reduce curb-damage risk and premature wear; rotate on schedule.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Modern Spare Compact Spare Tire Kit for Subaru Solterra
optional model-specific emergency spare; select wheel/tire-only or the correct tool/case configuration Fitment/availability: 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra with either factory wheel size; 18x4 wheel, 5x114.3 bolt pattern and T155/90R18 tire; …
Owners and reviewers describe the Solterra's ride as firm or 'busy' over broken pavement, most pronounced on Limited/Touring trims with the larger 20-inch wheels and lower-profile tires. Because there is no engine noise to mask it, tire roar and road noise are more prominent than owners expect for the class, and it is a common comfort complaint on longer drives. Not a defect, but a frequently searched ownership drawback.
Common Symptoms
Firm/jittery ride over bumps
Loud tire roar at highway speed
Road noise more noticeable than expected
Harsher on 20-inch wheels
How to Fix
No repair. Owners reduce harshness/noise by running tire pressures at (not above) the door-jamb spec, fitting quieter touring or all-season tires at replacement, and adding cabin/trunk sound-deadening. Buyers sensitive to ride quality often prefer the 18-inch Premium wheel/tire setup, which rides softer than the 20-inch trims.
The Solterra (EPA-rated ~222-228 miles depending on trim/year) delivers well below its advertised range in sustained highway and cold-weather use. Owners report ~180-210 miles of real highway range at 70-75 mph in mild weather, dropping to roughly 130-150 usable miles in cold winter conditions (20-30 percent-plus loss). Contributing factors: the guess-o-meter overestimates when the car is new and recalibrates downward, the battery lacks efficient preconditioning, and the cabin heater draws 3-5 kW continuously in the cold. European (Norwegian and Danish) independent tests also measured range well under the WLTP figure. This is the single most common non-charging owner frustration and drives heavy search demand around road-trip planning.
Common Symptoms
Range estimate drops sharply on the highway
Usable range far below EPA number in winter
Guess-o-meter reads high when new then falls
Frequent charge stops needed on road trips
Efficiency below 3 mi/kWh in cold months
How to Fix
There is no repair; it is a design/efficiency characteristic. Owners mitigate by driving 65 mph or below on highways, using seat/steering-wheel heaters instead of cabin heat, precondition the cabin while plugged in, keep tire pressures at spec, and plan winter road trips assuming ~60 percent of the sticker range with extra charge stops. Later model years (2024+) added a battery-warming heat pump that modestly improves cold-weather charging and efficiency.
When the traction battery is cold or at a high state of charge, the Solterra sharply limits or disables regenerative braking and displays a 'Regenerative Braking Limited' message — sometimes while the dash regen indicator still reads full. Owners accustomed to one-pedal/S-pedal driving find the car coasts and requires much heavier friction-brake input, which is startling in winter traffic and increases brake wear until the pack warms.
Common Symptoms
'Regenerative Braking Limited' warning in cold weather
Weak or absent one-pedal deceleration when cold
Regen indicator shows full but regen not engaging
Car coasts / requires heavier brake pedal when cold
Reduced regen when battery near full charge
How to Fix
This is largely a battery-thermal limitation documented in the owner's manual rather than a defect: pre-condition the battery while plugged in, avoid charging to 100% before a downhill drive, and let the pack warm before relying on one-pedal driving. Owners should ensure the latest battery-management software is installed.
Solterra owners report the front windshield chips and cracks readily from routine road debris, with small stone chips spreading into full cracks quickly. Because the forward driver-assist camera is mounted to the glass, any replacement requires a precise front-camera (ADAS) recalibration. Note: unlike other Subarus, the Solterra rides on Toyota's bZ4X platform and uses Toyota Safety Sense with a SINGLE forward camera plus radar (not Subaru's EyeSight stereo-camera pair), so its calibration procedure differs. Owners describe long ordeals: glass on back-order and replacements taking multiple weeks, and Subaru not releasing the recalibration software to third parties for a period, forcing dealer-only calibration (one owner reported a ~6-week wait). When calibration is skipped or done poorly, lane-keep/pre-collision functions can misbehave afterward. This is a glass durability + serviceability problem, distinct from any native driver-assist software tuning.
Common Symptoms
Stone chip spreads into a long crack quickly
Windshield cracks from minor road debris
Driver-assist / lane-keep warning after glass replacement
Replacement delayed weeks waiting on glass or dealer-only recalibration
Calibration-required message or ADAS warning after windshield work
How to Fix
Repair chips immediately before they spread. Use OEM glass and a shop equipped to recalibrate the Solterra's Toyota Safety Sense forward camera (Safelite offers Solterra ADAS recalibration, or use the dealer). Budget for a mandatory post-install camera calibration and verify driver-assist functions (lane keep, pre-collision) on a road test before accepting the car. If driver-assist warnings persist after a replacement, return for re-calibration. Expect potential multi-week waits on glass and dealer-only calibration.
Owners report that at highway speed (roughly 40 mph and above) the exterior driver-side mirror shakes/flutters enough to blur the reflection, making it hard to judge traffic or check blind spots. This is an optical/safety concern distinct from cabin squeaks-and-rattles: the mirror image smears. It is the subject of a putative class action, Robinson v. Subaru of America, Inc. (D.N.J. 1:24-cv-09334), which names the 2023-2024 Solterra alongside the 2024 Crosstrek and 2024 Ascent, alleging the mirror design allows excessive vibration and that replacement mirrors exhibit the same defect. (Separate reporting indicates the broader defect investigation has been extended to look at the Outback as well; the Outback is not part of the Robinson complaint itself.)
Common Symptoms
Driver-side mirror image blurs/shakes at highway speed
Cannot clearly see traffic or blind spot in the mirror
Mirror flutter/vibration at ~40 mph and above
Problem persists after dealer visits or mirror replacement
How to Fix
Have the dealer inspect under warranty; some owners get mirror or housing components replaced/adjusted, though fixes are reported as inconsistent (replacement mirrors may still vibrate). Interim owner mitigations include added internal damping/foam or aftermarket convex/wide-angle stick-on mirrors to retain a usable image. Check for any applicable Subaru TSB and document the concern with the dealer and NHTSA.
New-owner reports of cabin squeaks and rattles are common, most notably from the plastic surround holding the overhead map lights and SOS button, vibrating exterior door mirrors, and trim around the front-passenger and driver rear doors. The silent EV powertrain makes these plastic buzzes far more audible than they would be in a gas car. Severity varies unit-to-unit (some owners report none), pointing to build/assembly consistency.
Common Symptoms
Rattle from overhead map light / SOS button surround
Buzzing door mirrors at speed
Squeaks from door trim panels
Dash/console vibration over rough roads
How to Fix
Owner fixes include seating/reclipping the overhead-console trim, adding felt or foam anti-squeak tape between panels, and checking door-mirror mounting. Dealers address persistent rattles under warranty by re-securing or replacing loose trim clips; document the source (video/audio) to speed diagnosis.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Solterra vehicles. Improperly tightened hub bolts may loosen and cause the wheels to detach from the vehicle.
Campaign #23V06400009/02/2023
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Campaign #25V74400030/10/2025
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
What is the 2023-2024 Subaru Solterra Hub Bolt Loosening - Wheel Detachment Risk (Recall WRN-24)?
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 road… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra Wheel Hub Bolt Loosening (Recall 23V-085)?
The Solterra was subject to a stop-sale and recall (NHTSA 23V-085) for hub bolts that can loosen during driving. The hub bolts connecting the wheel hub assembly to the steering knuckle were not properly torqued from the factory, and the bolt material specification was found to be… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra Recall 25V577000: Defroster and Defogger Can Stop Working During an HVAC Fault?
Subaru is recalling 2023-2025 Solterra models under NHTSA campaign 25V577000 (Subaru's own recall number is WRD-25). On the Solterra, defrosting and defogging are handled by the same climate system that heats and cools the cabin, so when that system suffers certain HVAC faults -… Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra HVAC Electric A/C Compressor Fault Disables Defroster/Defogger (Recall 25V577 / WRD-25)?
A software error in the Solterra's HVAC control unit can leave the windshield defroster and defogger inoperative after an electric A/C compressor fault, reducing visibility in cold or humid conditions. Subaru's bulletin ties the compressor fault to metal contamination of the comp… Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2024 Subaru Solterra EV System Malfunction / Drive-Start Control Warning and No-Start / Power Loss?
Owners report sudden 'EV System Malfunction' and 'Drive-Start Control System Malfunction' warnings, sometimes with loss of the range estimate, disabled S-pedal, and in some cases a no-start or reduced-power state that can strand the driver. Subaru service bulletins link many even… Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra Rearview (Panoramic View Monitor) Camera Freezes or Goes Blank in Reverse (Recall 25V744 / WRE25)?
A software error in the Panoramic View Monitor system can cause the backup camera to freeze on a prior frame or show a blank screen when reverse is selected, especially shortly after ignition-on or a quick off/on cycle. The loss of a live rear image makes the vehicle non-complian… Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra DC Fast Charging Failures and Slow Charging Speeds?
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 be… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra 12V Auxiliary Battery Drain - Vehicle Won't Power On?
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 en… Repairs typically run $0-$350. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra DC Fast Charging Speed Limitation and Thermal Throttling?
The Solterra shares its e-TNGA platform with the Toyota bZ4X and inherits its conservative battery thermal management. DC fast charging speeds peak at approximately 100 kW initially but rapidly taper as the battery warms up, with real-world 10-80% charge times often exceeding 60… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra Rearview Camera Freezes or Displays a Blank Screen in Reverse (Recall 25V744000)?
The Subaru Solterra is built alongside its Toyota counterpart, and 2023-2025 Solterras equipped with the Panoramic View Monitor are included in NHTSA recall 25V744000 - a campaign filed by Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing that also covers a range of Toyota and Lexus model… Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Fragile Low-Profile OE Tires With No Spare and a Near-Useless Sealant Mobility Kit?
The Solterra ships with low-profile original-equipment tires (18-inch on lower trims, 20-inch on Limited/Touring) that owners report are easily damaged by curbs and potholes (sidewall cuts, punctures) and can wear quickly/unevenly. One owner reported a sidewall cut all the way to… Repairs typically run $250-$1,600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Real-World Highway and Winter Range Falls Far Short of EPA Rating?
The Solterra (EPA-rated ~222-228 miles depending on trim/year) delivers well below its advertised range in sustained highway and cold-weather use. Owners report ~180-210 miles of real highway range at 70-75 mph in mild weather, dropping to roughly 130-150 usable miles in cold win… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Wireless Apple CarPlay / Bluetooth Drops Out (Especially After Remote Start)?
Owners frequently report wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth failing to connect or dropping out. A common, repeatable pattern is CarPlay refusing to auto-reconnect after a remote start / remote climate session; other owners see spotty Bluetooth that blocks calls and audio with n… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Solterra Connect / StarLink App: Remote Climate and Preconditioning Fail, App Crashes?
The Solterra Connect / MySubaru app is a persistent pain point: owners report the Remote Climate page failing to open (it flashes then reverts to the previous screen), scheduled preconditioning not firing, charge/state-of-charge status not updating without manual refresh, frequen… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Charge Port Door Freezes, Sticks, or Fails to Lock/Release?
The recessed charge-port door on the Solterra collects rainwater and car-wash water in its cup-shaped pocket; in freezing temperatures the door freezes shut or the internal latch plunger/actuator sticks, preventing charging. Owners also report the opposite failure - a persistent… Repairs typically run $0-$350. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra Regenerative Braking Severely Limited in Cold Weather?
When the traction battery is cold or at a high state of charge, the Solterra sharply limits or disables regenerative braking and displays a 'Regenerative Braking Limited' message — sometimes while the dash regen indicator still reads full. Owners accustomed to one-pedal/S-pedal d… Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Subaru Solterra EyeSight Phantom Braking / False Pre-Collision Activation?
EyeSight-equipped Subarus including the Solterra are subject to NHTSA complaints and a class-action lawsuit (preliminarily settled in 2025) alleging the pre-collision/automatic emergency braking system can brake hard with no real obstacle ('phantom braking'), particularly on curv… Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Windshield Chips/Cracks Easily; Weeks-Long Dealer-Only ADAS Camera Recalibration After Replacement?
Solterra owners report the front windshield chips and cracks readily from routine road debris, with small stone chips spreading into full cracks quickly. Because the forward driver-assist camera is mounted to the glass, any replacement requires a precise front-camera (ADAS) recal… Repairs typically run $1,000-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2024 Subaru Solterra Driver-Side Mirror Vibrates/Flutters at Highway Speed, Blurring the Rearward View (NHTSA Complaints + Class Action)?
Owners report that at highway speed (roughly 40 mph and above) the exterior driver-side mirror shakes/flutters enough to blur the reflection, making it hard to judge traffic or check blind spots. This is an optical/safety concern distinct from cabin squeaks-and-rattles: the mirro… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2026 Subaru Solterra Weak Cabin Heat and Slow Warm-Up from Undersized Heat Pump?
Solterra owners in cold climates report the cabin heating is slow to warm up and often blows cool air from the vents while driving in freezing temperatures. The 2023 model relies on a high-draw (7 kW-plus) resistance heater that hammers range; 2024+ added a heat pump primarily to… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: medium.
