Used Toyota BZ4X Buying Guide

Toyota built its reputation on dependable gas-powered cars and hybrids, but the bZ4X marked the company’s first step into the EV SUV market. If you’re considering a used bZ4X, here’s what you should know before signing on the dotted line.

Key Takeaways:

• Front-wheel-drive models offer the longest driving range.
• Toyota issued an early recall for wheel hub bolts on the bZ4X.
• The bZ4X has a high-voltage battery warranty of up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.

 

What Makes the bZ4X Different From Other Toyotas?

The bZ4X rides on Toyota’s dedicated e-TNGA platform, which it shares with the Subaru Solterra. Front-wheel-drive models use a single electric motor producing about 201 ponies, while all-wheel-drive versions add a second motor for a combined output of 214 horsepower. Instead of a traditional automatic transmission, every bZ4X uses a single-speed reduction gear.

How Far Can This Toyota EV Travel on a Charge?

Front-wheel-drive models travel the farthest, with EPA estimates of about 252 miles. All-wheel-drive versions get closer to 222 miles depending on trim.

One area that’s worth paying attention to is charging performance. Early bZ4X models drew criticism because DC fast charging could slow significantly in cold weather. Toyota intentionally programmed the battery management system to protect the battery, but that conservative approach sometimes resulted in longer charging stops during winter road trips.

Toyota later released software updates that improved charging, so confirm the bZ4X you choose has received all available updates.

What Technology Comes Standard?

Toyota Safety Sense comes standard, bringing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and other driver-assistance features. Many trims also include a heat-pump climate control system, which helps improve efficiency during cooler weather.

Toyota has periodically released software updates that improve how the SUV operates. A dealership can confirm whether these updates have already been installed.

Is the bZ4X Considered Safe?

The bZ4X has earned strong crash-test results and includes an extensive list of standard safety equipment. Its battery is mounted beneath the floor, giving the SUV a lower center of gravity that makes it more stable.

However, shoppers should be aware of one event from the model’s early history. Shortly after launch, Toyota recalled the bZ4X because wheel hub bolts could loosen, creating the possibility of a wheel separating from the vehicle. Toyota issued a repair and, at the time, even offered loaner vehicles or buybacks for affected owners. That issue has an established fix, but it’s still important to verify that recall work has been completed.

What Should You Check Before Buying?

Because the bZ4X is still relatively new, long-term reliability data is limited. Even so, there are several areas worth inspecting.

During a test drive, listen for unusual whining noises from the electric drive unit and look underneath for any signs of fluid seepage around the e-axle. And, although Toyota backs the high-voltage battery with a warranty of up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, battery condition still affects driving range and overall value. Ask for a battery health report from a Toyota dealer and find out how the previous owner charged the vehicle.

Should You Buy a Used Toyota bZ4X?

Because the bZ4X is still relatively new, many used examples have low mileage and remaining factory warranty coverage. Stop by or contact us at Arlington Toyota to see what we have in stock and make sure to schedule a test drive!