2017 Toyota Mirai
2017 Toyota Mirai
Overview
The 2017 Toyota Mirai represents a pioneering effort in hydrogen fuel cell technology, offering a unique alternative to traditional internal combustion engines and battery electric vehicles. Its powertrain is designed for efficiency and zero tailpipe emissions, utilizing a hydrogen fuel cell stack to generate electricity that powers an electric motor. This innovative approach generally translates to a reliable driving experience, with the primary focus on the advanced fuel cell system and its supporting components. Owners can expect a quiet and smooth ride, characteristic of electric powertrains, coupled with the convenience of refueling with hydrogen. The Mirai’s design prioritizes safety and the integration of its complex hydrogen system.
Engine
Fuel Cell Stack
Reduced Power Output
- Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in acceleration and overall power, potentially accompanied by dashboard warning lights related to the fuel cell system.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement or refurbishment of fuel cell stack components. This is a complex repair requiring specialized knowledge and equipment.
- Cost: $5,000 - $15,000+
Hydrogen Leaks
- Symptoms: Audible hissing sounds from the hydrogen system, potential ‘rotten egg’ smell (though often undetectable by humans), and dashboard warnings indicating a hydrogen leak.
- Solution: Immediate inspection and repair of the hydrogen storage tanks, lines, and seals by qualified technicians. Safety is paramount.
- Cost: $500 - $2,500
Electric Motor
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
High-Voltage Battery Pack
Degradation Over Time
- Symptoms: Gradual decrease in driving range and overall performance as the battery ages, typical of all high-voltage battery systems.
- Solution: Battery health monitoring and potential replacement if performance falls below acceptable levels. Toyota offers battery warranties.
- Cost: $3,000 - $8,000+
12V Auxiliary Battery
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical system malfunctions, difficulty starting the vehicle (though the main power comes from the HV battery), and warning lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V auxiliary battery.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Fuel Cell Power Control Unit
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Erratic behavior of the fuel cell system, potential temporary loss of power, or dashboard warnings related to power management.
- Solution: Software updates or recalibration of the power control unit by a qualified technician.
- Cost: $100 - $400
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
LED Lighting
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: The touchscreen display may become unresponsive or freeze, requiring a system reset.
- Solution: Software updates or a hard reset of the infotainment system. In rare cases, unit replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Climate Control System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Toyota Mirai, as a first-generation hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, exhibits a generally strong reliability record, particularly concerning its electric powertrain components. The primary areas of concern revolve around the specialized fuel cell stack, which can be costly to repair or replace if issues arise, and potential hydrogen leaks, which require immediate professional attention. The high-voltage battery, while generally robust, is subject to natural degradation over time. Other systems like the transmission, suspension, and exterior components are largely trouble-free. Electrical issues are mostly limited to the auxiliary 12V battery and occasional infotainment glitches. Overall, the Mirai offers a reliable glimpse into future mobility, with its unique technology being the main factor influencing potential repair costs and complexity.