Toyota Mirai Years To Avoid and The Best Years

Toyota Mirai Years To Avoid – Welcome to the world of alternative fuel vehicles, where hydrogen-powered cars are making their mark as a unique and innovative solution to the growing interest in electric vehicles. Among these pioneering machines, the Toyota Mirai stands tall as a leading contender in the realm of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs).

Unlike conventional electric cars that rely solely on batteries, FCEVs draw their power from cutting-edge hydrogen-powered fuel cells.

This technology offers an exciting promise of emission-free driving and reduced dependence on traditional fossil fuels.

However, it’s important to note that hydrogen-fueled cars are still a niche within the ever-evolving automotive market and are currently limited to availability primarily in California.

Toyota, a brand renowned for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, has been at the forefront of hydrogen fuel cell vehicle development.

The Toyota Mirai, a sleek and stylish four-passenger midsize sedan, took the automotive world by storm when it became the first commercial fuel-cell vehicle back in 2016.

Since then, the Mirai has been steadily gaining popularity, and its availability in the used car market has provided buyers with numerous choices.

Now, you might be wondering about the reliability of the Toyota Mirai, especially when considering buying one of these cutting-edge vehicles.

That’s where we come in.

Toyota Mirai Years To Avoid

Today, we’ll explore the worst Toyota Mirai years to avoid, exploring potential reliability issues that prospective buyers should be aware of.

If you’re curious about the ins and outs of the Toyota Mirai and want to make an informed decision about your next eco-friendly ride, keep reading.

We’ll uncover the key factors to consider when looking for the perfect Mirai model for your needs, ensuring you have all the knowledge you need to make the best choice.

Whether you’re an eco-conscious driver or simply interested in the latest automotive advancements, join us as we navigate the world of hydrogen fuel cell cars and unveil the crucial details you need to know about the Toyota Mirai and its worst years to avoid.

Let’s embark on this exciting journey of discovery together.

The 2016 Toyota Mirai: Early Innovations and Potential Reliability Concerns

The 2016 Toyota Mirai, as one of the first commercial fuel-cell vehicles, boasted impressive powertrain technology.

Unlike electric vehicles that require hours of charging, the Mirai could be refueled with hydrogen in just a few minutes, providing a range of over 300 miles.

However, FCEVs remained a niche market, with limited availability outside of California, where hydrogen refueling stations were more accessible.

One of the main reliability concerns with the 2016 Mirai lies in its fuel cell boost technology, which could generate a higher voltage than the fuel system could handle.

While this issue was relatively rare, it could potentially lead to overheating and damage to the fuel system.

Toyota responded promptly by releasing a software update to address this problem.

Nevertheless, given the debut nature of the 2016 model, it is advisable to consider newer versions with refinements in the technology.

The 2017 Toyota Mirai: Refueling Convenience with Reliability Drawbacks

The 2017 Toyota Mirai shares many characteristics with its predecessor, offering swift refueling times and an impressive driving range.

However, the vehicle faced some significant reliability issues, leading CarComplaints.com to rank it as the worst model year for the Mirai.

One of the most concerning complaints was related to the difficulty of installing child seats.

Many owners reported that the Mirai’s child seat latches were challenging to access and use effectively.

Another reliability concern revolved around the climate system, with reports of malfunctioning heaters that would activate spontaneously and refuse to turn off.

The 2018 Toyota Mirai: FCEV Advantages Marred by Fueling Challenges

The 2018 Toyota Mirai retained the benefits of its predecessors, including quick refueling times and eco-friendly driving.

However, this model year faced additional challenges due to the lack of robust hydrogen fueling infrastructure in many regions.

Some users found it difficult to access hydrogen refueling stations, and even when available, certain stations didn’t have enough hydrogen to meet the demand.

Moreover, an exposed coolant tank design made the Mirai susceptible to damage from minor debris, leading to coolant leaks and expensive repairs for some owners.

Toyota Mirai Best Years

The Toyota Mirai, a midsized hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV), has captured the attention of eco-conscious drivers since its debut at the Los Angeles auto show in 2014.

With its cutting-edge fuel cell technology and zero-emission performance, the Mirai has remained a popular choice even into 2022.

For those considering a used Toyota Mirai, it’s essential to identify the most reliable model years that offer a perfect blend of performance and peace of mind.

We’ll explore the best and most reliable years for the Toyota Mirai and delve into its unique features and benefits.

2019 Toyota Mirai: A Strong Contender for Reliability

The 2019 Toyota Mirai marks a turning point for the model, representing a more mature and refined version compared to its earlier iterations.

With each passing year, hydrogen refueling availability has improved, making later models generally more practical choices for prospective buyers.

The 2019 Mirai offers a reliable and well-rounded driving experience, boasting advancements in technology and addressing potential issues found in earlier models.

2020 Toyota Mirai: Building on the Success of Its Predecessor

The 2020 Toyota Mirai continues to build on the strengths of the 2019 model year.

As the hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure continued to expand, the 2020 Mirai gained an advantage in terms of convenience and accessibility.

With refined features and improved reliability, the 2020 Mirai remains a solid option for those seeking an eco-friendly vehicle with reliable performance.

2021 Toyota Mirai: Advancements in Technology and Design

As the Toyota Mirai entered 2021, it showcased further advancements in technology and design.

The 2021 model year represents a more mature phase of the Mirai’s development, offering improved fuel cell efficiency and an enhanced driving experience.

Moreover, with its updated styling and innovative features, the 2021 Mirai continues to attract drivers looking for a reliable and stylish FCV.

2022 Toyota Mirai: Embracing the Future of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

The 2022 Toyota Mirai embraces the future of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles with continued improvements and refinements.

As hydrogen refueling stations become increasingly available, the 2022 Mirai benefits from enhanced practicality and convenience.

Toyota Mirai Problems

As the demand for eco-friendly vehicles rises, the Toyota Mirai has emerged as a pioneer in the world of hydrogen fuel cell cars.

Boasting zero emissions and innovative fuel cell technology, the Mirai promises a greener and more sustainable driving experience.

However, even the most reliable Toyota Mirai years may encounter certain issues that have been reported by previous owners.

In this section, we’ll explore the common problems associated with the Toyota Mirai, as well as the considerations that potential buyers should keep in mind.

1. Abnormal Voltage Generated by the Fuel System

One of the most reported issues with the Toyota Mirai is the generation of abnormal voltage by the fuel system.

This problem was particularly prominent in earlier model years, such as the 2016 Mirai.

When the fuel cell boost technology generates higher voltage than the fuel system can handle, it may result in overheating and potential damage to the vehicle’s components.

While Toyota promptly addressed this issue through software updates, it remains a concern for those considering a used Mirai from the earlier production years.

2. Inaccurate Maximum Mileage

Some Toyota Mirai owners have reported discrepancies in the displayed maximum mileage range.

In certain instances, the actual driving range achieved did not match the stated maximum mileage on the vehicle’s display.

While this issue may not impact the overall performance of the Mirai significantly, it could cause inconvenience and uncertainty for drivers who rely on accurate range estimations for their journeys.

3. Bulky Hydrogen Tank

Another commonly mentioned problem with the Toyota Mirai is the size and bulkiness of the hydrogen tank.

The design of the hydrogen tank contributes to its relatively large size, which could limit storage space and affect overall vehicle dynamics.

However, it’s important to note that the bulkiness of the hydrogen tank is inherent to fuel cell technology and is not exclusive to the Mirai.

As fuel cell technology evolves, it is likely that future models will address this concern through design improvements.

4. Electronic Stability Control Failure

Some Toyota Mirai owners have reported instances of electronic stability control (ESC) failure.

ESC is a crucial safety feature that helps prevent skidding and loss of control during sharp maneuvers or slippery road conditions.

While the incidence of ESC failure appears to be limited, it underscores the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and prompt attention to any potential warning lights or malfunction indicators.

5. Limited Availability of Hydrogen Filling Stations

Regardless of the model year, all Toyota Mirai owners face the challenge of limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure.

Hydrogen filling stations are currently only available in select markets, primarily in California.

This limitation means that Mirai owners may not have the same level of refueling convenience as conventional gasoline or electric vehicle owners.

Prospective buyers should carefully consider the availability of hydrogen filling stations in their area before purchasing a Toyota Mirai.

Are Toyota Mirais Expensive to Maintain?

A used Toyota Mirai can be a cost-effective choice when it comes to annual maintenance fees. According to fiix.io, the average annual repair cost for a Toyota Mirai is $237.37, which is significantly lower than the average for most vehicles, which is over $400 per year.

This affordability is partly due to the availability of low-cost repair parts.

For instance, even a brake pad and rotor replacement appointment typically cost less than $500 on average.

However, it’s essential to consider the mandatory fluid top-off for the fuel-cell cooling system, which can make maintaining a Toyota Mirai slightly more expensive than average.

Are Toyota Mirais Generally Reliable?

While the Toyota Mirai offers a greener driving experience, it requires special attention and maintenance due to its fuel-cell technology that uses hydrogen for power. As reported by tiremeetsroad.com, you’ll need to pay for a mandatory ion exchange element and fuel-cell cooling system fluid top-off approximately every 30,000 miles, which can cost around $1000.

Depending on your driving habits, this maintenance expense can add up over time.

Additionally, according to edmunds.com, the Toyota Mirai has an average consumer review score of 3.2 out of 5, indicating that it might not be as reliable as many other vehicles in its size and class.

This could be attributed to the increased sophistication and complexity of the hydrogen fuel cell system.

How Long Will a Toyota Mirai Last?

When it comes to the longevity of a Toyota Mirai, it can be viewed in a similar way to conventional petrol or diesel cars. The fuel cell stack in a Toyota Mirai is engineered to last for the lifetime of the car, with the same quality, durability, and reliability as any other Toyota vehicle.

This means that with proper maintenance and care, a Toyota Mirai can provide a dependable and long-lasting driving experience.

Is It Worth It to Buy a Toyota Mirai?

The Toyota Mirai offers several highlights, including its sleek bodywork, refined driving demeanor, and impressive driving range. However, it’s worth considering some drawbacks, such as the higher starting price compared to other electric cars, limited hydrogen availability, and its unique fuel source, which might limit its mainstream appeal.

Whether the Toyota Mirai is worth it for you depends on your specific preferences, driving habits, and access to hydrogen refueling stations in your area.

Is Toyota Losing Money on the Mirai?

Toyota sells the Mirai for around $66,000 before government tax incentives, which can reduce the price by over $10,000. While the Mirai boasts a captivating design and luxurious features, it is suspected that Toyota might be losing money on each vehicle sold.

Despite this, the new Mirai presents a more appealing and conventional appearance compared to its predecessor, making it an attractive option for those seeking an environmentally friendly and stylish car.

Conclusion

The Toyota Mirai is an innovative and environmentally friendly option for drivers seeking a greener driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of certain key problems that have been reported by previous consumers.

Issues such as abnormal voltage generated by the fuel system, inaccurate maximum mileage, the bulky hydrogen tank, and electronic stability control failure should be considered before making a purchase decision.

Despite these concerns, the Toyota Mirai has proven to be relatively affordable to maintain, with an average annual repair cost lower than many other vehicles.

Additionally, the Mirai’s fuel cell stack is engineered to last for the lifetime of the car, ensuring its durability and reliability comparable to other Toyota models.

Whether the Toyota Mirai is worth it depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

For those looking to purchase a used Toyota Mirai, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate the model year and its associated reliability issues.

To avoid potential headaches, it’s recommended to focus on the more recent and refined Toyota Mirai years that have improved upon earlier technology and addressed previous problems.

While the Toyota Mirai holds promise as a groundbreaking hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, choosing the best model year and being aware of its common problems are essential steps in making an informed and satisfying investment.

So, if you’re in the market for a used Toyota Mirai, consider the most reliable years and steer clear of the Toyota Mirai years to avoid, ensuring a positive and eco-friendly driving experience.

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