2023 Subaru Solterra Safety Report
2023 Subaru Solterra: Excellent crash ratings, but significant recalls for wheel detachment and complaints of unintended acceleration and forward collision avoidance issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Subaru Solterra
Reliability Score
The 2023 Subaru Solterra receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2023 Subaru Solterra
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Subaru Solterra:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheel Detachment Due To Loose Hub Bolts Two recalls (WHEELS:HUB) indicate that improperly tightened hub bolts can loosen, causing wheels to detach from the vehicle, leading to a loss of control and increased crash risk. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Unintended Acceleration/Forward Collision Avoidance Malfunction Multiple complaints describe sudden unintended acceleration, particularly while parking, and the forward collision avoidance system failing to detect vehicles or objects, leading to crashes or near-misses. |
High | Common | new-low miles |
| Hvac System Failure (No Heat/Ac) Complaints detail inoperative heating and air conditioning systems, with some owners reporting electrical compressor failure, leading to a lack of climate control and reduced visibility due to inoperative defrosters. |
Medium | Occasional | new-low miles |
| Battery Failure In Cold Weather Reports of battery failure after exposure to below-freezing temperatures, rendering the vehicle inoperable. |
Medium | Occasional | new-low miles |
| Reduced Electric Range And Slow Charging Owners report significantly lower actual range (e.g., 160 miles vs. 228 advertised) and very slow DC charging rates, especially in low temperatures, impacting usability and potentially stranding drivers. |
Low | Common | new-low miles |
| Rearview Camera Display Failure A recall (BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION) addresses rearview cameras failing to display an image, reducing the driver's view and increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Subaru Solterra:
Frequent complaints about unintended acceleration and the forward collision avoidance system malfunctioning, leading to dangerous situations.
Issues include battery failure in cold weather, HVAC system malfunctions (no heat/AC), and various warning lights indicating system malfunctions.
Two recalls specifically address hub bolts loosening, leading to potential wheel detachment.
Reports of reduced braking power and issues with automatic braking sensors, particularly in adverse weather.
Problems with inoperative defrosters, rear window visibility issues due to design (no wiper, flat angle), and glare from interior plastics.
Concerns about actual electric range being significantly lower than advertised and slow DC charging rates, especially in cold temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Subaru Solterra
Is the 2023 Subaru Solterra safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Subaru Solterra received excellent 5-star crash test ratings overall, frontal, and side, with a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has 25 complaints, including 4 crashes, and four recalls. Two recalls are for critical wheel detachment issues, and complaints frequently cite unintended acceleration and forward collision avoidance system malfunctions, which are serious safety concerns despite strong crash test scores.
What are common problems with the 2023 Subaru Solterra?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Subaru Solterra include unintended acceleration and malfunctions of the forward collision avoidance system, electrical system problems (like battery failure and HVAC issues), and critical recalls related to wheels detaching due to loose hub bolts. Owners also frequently report lower-than-advertised electric range and slow charging speeds.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Subaru Solterra?
Yes, the 2023 Subaru Solterra has four recalls. Two are for WHEELS:HUB, where improperly tightened hub bolts can cause wheels to detach. Other recalls address BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION (rearview camera failure) and VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM (inoperative defroster/defogger).
How does the 2023 Subaru Solterra perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Subaru Solterra performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 5-star safety rating. It received 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and 4 stars for the Rollover test.
Should I be concerned about unintended acceleration in the 2023 Solterra?
Yes, there are multiple complaints to NHTSA regarding sudden unintended acceleration, particularly at low speeds or while parking, and issues with the forward collision avoidance system. This is a significant safety concern that prospective buyers should be aware of and investigate further.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be cautious due to critical recalls for wheel detachment and recurring complaints of unintended acceleration and forward collision avoidance system malfunctions; thoroughly investigate these issues and ensure all recall remedies have been applied.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Subaru Solterra
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Subaru Solterra. The data includes 25 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 Subaru Solterra an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.