Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2017
Best: 2018
6 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 6 model years, the Hyundai IONIQ has 190 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 10 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and service brakes. 2017 drew the most complaints (51), 2018 the fewest (17).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Hyundai IONIQ vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2017 (51 complaints). Lowest: 2018 (17).
Sentiment varies significantly by model line. For the original IONIQ (Hybrid/PHEV/Electric), feedback is consistently positive, praising it as an underappreciated, efficient, and practical commuter car with low maintenance costs and good value.
Can cause complete vehicle shutdown, triggers dashboard warnings, requires replacement. Statistically cited as affecting 1-4% of E-GMP vehicles, but is a very frequent topic of concern and discussion. Recall issued.
Multiple replacements reported within early ownership period on IONIQ 5.
Described as "just ok," clunky, or buggy compared to Tesla; slow infotainment response noted.
Cited as a significant oversight affecting rear visibility in poor weather.
Beeps and warnings considered annoying by some owners.
Owner insights cover all generations of the IONIQ. Individual model years are broken down above.
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