2024 Subaru Solterra Safety Report

The 2024 Subaru Solterra presents a mixed safety picture, excelling in crash test performance but showing early signs of electronic and system-related complaints. With an overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 stars, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts and 4 stars for rollover, the vehicle demonstrates strong passive safety. However, despite being a new model, it has accumulated 13 NHTSA complaints, including 1 crash and 1 injury, which is notable for its age. A significant concern is the presence of two safety recalls: one for 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION' affecting the rearview camera, and another for 'VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM' which can lead to decreased driver visibility. These recalls directly address critical safety functions and have been cited in owner complaints. Common complaint patterns revolve around the vehicle's advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and electrical components. 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' is the top complaint component with 2 reports, followed by various electrical system issues, vehicle speed control, and lane departure systems. Specific complaints detail inadvertent acceleration, overly sensitive lane departure features causing the car to swerve, and facial recognition systems that can cause the vehicle to stop. There are also reports of battery failures, HVAC system malfunctions leading to inoperative defrosters, and 'EV System Malfunction' alerts, indicating potential reliability concerns with the electric powertrain and associated electronics. The recall history, though limited to two, addresses fundamental safety features. The rearview camera recall (25V744000) and the defroster/defogger recall (25V577000) are critical as their failures can directly increase the risk of a crash. Several complaints explicitly mention these recalls, with owners reporting difficulties in getting repairs due to parts availability. The combination of excellent crash test ratings with a growing number of electronic and system-related complaints, coupled with active recalls, suggests that while the vehicle is structurally sound, its complex electronic systems may require further refinement and attention.

Our recommendation: While the 2024 Subaru Solterra boasts excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the two active safety recalls and the emerging pattern of electronic system complaints; ensure all recall repairs are completed and thoroughly test all ADAS features during a test drive.