Toyota’s Reliability Reputation Under Pressure
Toyota and Lexus are recalling approximately 62,000 vehicles in the United States due to a potentially dangerous defroster malfunction that could reduce driver visibility and increase crash risk. The recall affects certain units of the electric Toyota bZ4X, Lexus RZ300e, and RZ450e vehicles, where the windshield defroster may not remove frost, ice, and fog from the windshield due to a software issue in an electrical control unit.
Toyota’s once-bulletproof reputation for reliability has taken several hits recently, particularly with newer vehicle launches. The company’s electric vehicle rollout has been especially problematic, with the bZ4X experiencing multiple recalls since launch, while traditional models like the Tundra have suffered from serious engine problems requiring complete replacement. With more than 140,000 vehicles recalled in 2025, Toyota’s quality control processes are facing increased scrutiny.
Lexus
Software Bug Causes Major Visibility Problems
The defective defroster system could significantly reduce driver visibility, particularly during cold weather conditions when frost and fog naturally accumulate on windshields. This creates a safety hazard that could lead to accidents, especially in regions experiencing seasonal temperature changes.
The recall specifically targets Toyota’s electric vehicle lineup, including the bZ4X crossover and Lexus’s luxury electric SUVs, the RZ300e and RZ450e. Toyota and Lexus dealers will update the software of the electrical control unit free of charge. For proper peace of mind, dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical HVAC compressor if necessary, again at no cost.
Lexus
Toyota’s Recent Recall History
This latest recall adds to Toyota’s growing list of safety issues in 2025. Earlier this year, the company recalled approximately 41,000 Toyota Camry and Lexus NX/RX vehicles in February, issued recalls for brake caliper problems affecting RAV4 and NX models, and dealt with serious engine failure issues affecting over 100,000 Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles due to metallic residues from manufacturing.
Similar defroster and climate control recalls have plagued Toyota before, though typically involving mechanical components rather than software issues. The company’s reputation has faced challenges in recent years due to problems with electric motors, transmissions, temperature controls, and in-car electronics, particularly affecting infotainment systems and touchscreen interfaces. Toyota, once synonymous with quality and reliability, is now making headlines regularly for safety recalls. The irony isn’t lost on us.
