Toyota is offering to buy back its recalled bZ4X electric SUVs
Toyota is offering to buy back its bZ4X electric SUV crossovers after recalling the vehicle in June, as first reported by Electrek. The recall, which Toyota issued not even two months after the release of the bZ4X, involves loose hub bolts on the steering wheel that can cause it to loosen while driving.
Toyota initially advised bZ4X owners not to drive the vehicle and suggested that they notify their local Toyota dealer so that they can collect and store the vehicle while they await a repair. The company would then give customers a free loaner car in return.
But a letter to customers obtained by Electrek and confirmed by The Verge reveals Toyota is also offering to throw in some extra freebies in exchange for the inconvenience, including a $5,000 credit, an extended warranty and free charging at EVgo-owned charging stations through the end of 2024 (provided customers get their cars back by then) . If an owner isn̵[ads1]7;t satisfied with these options, however, Toyota says it will buy back the vehicle for $42,000 and up.
“We know that our customers have many choices when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. We appreciate their loyalty and support them through this recall,” Toyota said in a statement obtained by The Verge. “However, if a customer does not wish to proceed with the specified options, we will offer to buy back the bZ4X.” Toyota adds that the buyback depends on the owner’s condition and circumstances.
Neither the letter nor the statement provides any additional context about when the issue will be resolved. The recall affects around 2,700 vehicles, but it is unclear how many of these have actually been delivered. The Subaru Solterra, which is built on the same platform, is also affected by the recall.
The bZ4X marks Toyota’s first attempt at an all-electric vehicle, and it’s had a bit of a bumpy start. Hopefully, Toyota will iron out any remaining kinks before it starts delivering more vehicles and ramping up production to meet its $17 billion goal of releasing 30 new electric cars by 2030.
