Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 25 June 2026
Toyota New Zealand has issued a recall for both the bZ4X and the Lexus RZ from model years 2025 to 2026.
Despite this reasonably wide model year range, Toyota New Zealand confirmed that it relates to 96 bZ4Xs and 7 RZs.
Published to the Waka Kotahi website, the recall notice states the issue relates to the battery ECU in these vehicles.
The notice reads:
“The subject battery electric vehicles (BEV) are equipped with a battery that supplies electricity to the drivetrain.
“This battery is controlled by an onboard ECU that contains two integrated circuits where one could immediately overwrite data in the same memory address location that the other had just written to.
“If this occurs, the memory can fail an operational check. If there are multiple failed attempts, an “EV System Malfunction” warning message will be displayed, and multiple malfunction indicator lamps for different systems will illuminate.
“While power steering and power assisted braking continue to operate, the electric drive system will shut down. This can cause a loss of motive power while driving at a higher speed, increasing the risk of a crash.
“Not all vehicles in the model years are involved”
NZ Autocar contacted Toyota New Zealand to get more information regarding this recall, and a spokesperson came back with this:
“Owners of the vehicles involved will receive a campaign notification by first class mail.
“Toyota/Lexus dealers will reprogram Battery ECU. The remedy will be performed at no charge to vehicle owners.
“To reprogram Battery ECU will take approximately 45 to 60 minutes. It depends on the vehicles and the remedy.
“However, it may be necessary for the owner to make the vehicle available for a longer period depending upon the dealer’s schedule.”
