Toyota and Subaru Face Class Action Over Rapid Battery Failures in EVs

Owners of the Solterra and bZ4x allege 12-volt batteries fail within months, leaving vehicles undrivable.

Toyota and Subaru are facing a class-action lawsuit filed by owners of their jointly developed electric vehicles, the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra. Plaintiffs claim the 12-volt batteries in these EVs drain far too quickly, requiring multiple replacements in just a few months or after fewer than 10,000 miles. According to court filings, some owners experienced repeated failures after as little as 5,000 miles of driving.

Allegations of Manufacturer Awareness
The lawsuit asserts that both automakers were aware of the battery issue before the vehicles went on sale but failed to disclose the problem to customers. Plaintiffs also claim that dealerships have not provided a long-term solution, leaving drivers stranded when the 12-volt batteries fail. Such batteries, even in EVs, are expected to last several years, making the alleged failures highly unusual and disruptive.

The Legal Battle Ahead
The case has been filed in the U.S. Eastern District Court of California and could take years to resolve. Class-action lawsuits of this nature often require extensive legal proceedings, and it may be some time before owners see compensation. However, the combination of legal pressure and prior complaints submitted to the NHTSA could force Toyota and Subaru to issue a recall, potentially offering relief to affected drivers.

Impact on EV Owners and Reputation
This lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about EV reliability and the importance of proper battery management. For owners, a failing 12-volt battery can render a vehicle undrivable, undermining confidence in these new electric platforms. Meanwhile, Toyota and Subaru may face reputational and financial consequences if the court rules against them or if a widespread recall becomes necessary.

Looking Forward
As EV adoption grows, issues like this serve as a reminder that even established automakers must rigorously test and support their technology. The outcome of this lawsuit could influence how Toyota, Subaru, and other automakers approach EV battery design, warranty coverage, and customer communication in the future.