Hyundai Nexo problems

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The Hyundai Nexo (Korean: 현대 넥쏘) is a hydrogen fuel cell powered crossover SUV that was revealed at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show on January 8, 2018. Replacing the Hyundai Tucson FCEV, the Nexo is the flagship for Hyundai's "eco car" portfolio. The car is named after the Danish city Nexø.

Overview

The Hyundai Nexo Blue has an EPA rated range of 380 miles (611 km). The Nexo Limited has a driving range of 570 km versus 470 km for the Tucson FCEV. The vehicle features three fuel tanks with a total capacity of 156 liters and 6.3 kg, versus 140 liters and 5.6 kg for the previous model. The Nexo has a 163 PS, 400 Nm electric motor, versus 135 PS and 300 Nm for the Tucson FCEV.

The Nexo was released in South Korea in March 2018. The Nexo fuel cell components came with a 10-year or 160,000km warranty. In October 2020, South Korean sales exceeded 10,000 vehicles with 727 sold in 2018, 4,194 sold in 2019 and 5,097 sold up to October 2020.

The first Nexo sold in the United States in December 2018. The Nexo had earlier been unveiled to the media in October 2018 to be available only in California by the end of 2018. The Nexo was released in the United Kingdom in March 2019. The Nexo was released in Australia in March 2021 on special order for lease becoming the first Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle sold in Australia.

photo of Hyundai Nexo car production

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Hyundai Nexo model years

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Nexo 2021
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hyundai nexo 2020 photo
Nexo 2020
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hyundai nexo 2019 photo
Nexo 2019
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Common Hyundai Nexo problems

The Hyundai Nexo is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that has been on the market since 2019. While the Nexo has received positive reviews for its interior space, infotainment system, and safety features, there have been several recalls and issues reported by owners.

One of the most significant issues with the Nexo is the potential for hydrogen leaks, which could lead to a fire. Hyundai has issued multiple recalls for the Nexo due to this issue. In 2022, Hyundai recalled certain 2019-2021 Nexo vehicles due to the hydrogen gas detection sensors failing to detect leaks in the hydrogen gas delivery system. This recall affects 12,626 vehicles and dealers will replace the hydrogen gas detection sensors, free of charge.

In 2022, Hyundai also recalled certain 2019 Nexo vehicles due to the inlet receptacle filter detaching after hydrogen refueling, which could cause a hydrogen fuel leak. This recall affects 1,002 vehicles and dealers will replace the hydrogen fuel inlet receptacle, free of charge.

In addition to these recalls, Hyundai has also issued a recall for 54 examples of the 2019 Nexo due to the possibility of leaking hydrogen, which could lead to a fire. This recall was issued after a 2019 Nexo caught fire in South Korea after refueling at a hydrogen station. The investigation found that material from the fuel inlet detached and allowed hydrogen to leak out, which was ignited by static electricity from the person's hand.

The Nexo has also faced issues with its Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) software. In 2020, Hyundai recalled certain 2020 Nexo and Sonata vehicles due to the RSPA software failing to prevent vehicle movement upon detection of an RSPA system malfunction. This recall affects 1,000 vehicles and dealers will reprogram the RSPA software, free of charge.

Despite these issues, the Nexo has received positive reviews for its interior space, infotainment system, and safety features. However, the potential for hydrogen leaks and the associated fire risk is a significant concern that has led to multiple recalls. It is important for Nexo owners to stay informed about these recalls and ensure that their vehicles are serviced promptly to address any potential issues.

Hyundai Nexo

What is the problem with the Hyundai Nexo?

2019 and 2020 Nexo models were recalled for an integrated electronic brake system that could malfunction, while 2019 models were recalled for a possible hydrogen leak from a detached inlet filter.

Is there a recall on Hyundai Nexo fuel cell?

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Nexo Fuel Cell and 2019-2021 Kona Electric vehicles. The Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) system may detect an abnormal sensor signal and as a result, may significantly reduce braking performance.

Why are Nexos so cheap?

That's because it's a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, a technology for which the infrastructure isn't exactly built out. As a result, the Nexo isn't the only cheap hydrogen car on the used market.

How many miles does a Hyundai Nexo get?

354 miles

Like most electric vehicles, no transmission is necessary. The EPA-estimated driving range between fill ups is 380 miles for the Nexo Blue and 354 miles for the Nexo Limited model.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Nexo years

We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Nexo cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Hyundai Nexo model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Nexo model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Nexo years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Hyundai Nexo car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Nexo , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Engine problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Nexo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Nexo . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Nexo vehicles.

List of Hyundai Nexo complaints

Hyundai Nexo 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-24
  • Date Complaint: 2022-08-11
  • VIN: km8j74a63mu
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Nexo. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V258000 (Fuel System, Other, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2022-08-01
  • VIN: Km8j84a67lu
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I received a safety recall on this car via mail. I brought it to the dealership service center in van nuys, ca, to which they said no recall currently exists on this car. A month later, I’m now experiencing a sensor of the fuel cell system failure. In addition, the CarPlay function on my car has not been working for 2 years and both Tustin and van nuys Hyundai dealership fail to fix it
Hyundai Nexo 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-05
  • Date Complaint: 2022-07-14
  • VIN: KM8J84A69MU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: The car does not automatically brake to avoid collision. I have tested the car by going straight into a large object either another car or person in front of my car and it will not brake. In addition the hydrogen sensor is not working properly as I have already been informed of from their recall number 225 NHTSA Recall 22V-258 which I just received a few days ago. I am dissappointed that it took 3 months for Hyundai to notify me of this very serious safety issue and I am now calling the NHTSA to see what options I have to return this vehicle as I do not feel safe driving, operating, or even parking my car at my home with a hydrogen sensor that is faulty as that is a very serious fire hazard.
Hyundai Nexo 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-29
  • Date Complaint: 2022-06-20
  • VIN: KM8J84A68KU
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I bought a 2019 Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell on 04/29/2020 from Lithia Hyundai of Mission Hills without been notified of the two existent recalls with no remedy yet available from Hyundai. In fact, these Recalls shown in the Carfax report, were undisclosed by giving me to sign the last page "as a confirmation I was going to receive it complete". At the end of the process, I received a USB with the purchase documents and it was until two days after when I printed all documents, I found out about the recalls. Is it fraud?
Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2022-02-18
  • VIN: KM8J74A65LU
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The city I live is located on top of a hill/low mountain. When I drive uphill by following speed limits to my home the car often can't keep recommended speed (45 mph). The speed drops significantly(can go even 25 mph) and unpredictable. At the beginning I believe the car was able to keep the speed but it slowly started losing the power. The risk is that a vehicle behind might not expect such behavior from my car and also changing lanes is tricky because it can't accelerate and it moves slower than other cars on the road. I've contacted dealership's service two times but they didn't find any issue. I also contacted Hyundai's customer support but they wasn't able to help me as well. The person from the service said that Hyundai is aware of the situation but they don't have any solution. My guess is that the problem is with battery. Battery performs as buffer to power electric engine in hydrogen fueled vehicles. When I drive uphill the battery probably drains fast and the energy from hydrogen can't charge the battery on time. The car doesn't show any warning lamps or malfunction signs on dashboard. I'm ready to cooperate with vehicle inspection if needed.
Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2022-02-17
  • VIN: KM8J84A63LU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Nexo. The contact stated while driving at various speeds going uphill, the vehicle would lose power and lose speed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the fuel cells replaced however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and offered to buy back the vehicle. The failure mileage was 7,438.
Hyundai Nexo 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-09-02
  • Date Complaint: 2022-01-18
  • VIN: KM8J84A6XKU
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Indicated that there is delay of acceleration on the high driving when I push the gas pedal, it doesn't linearly speed up instead it reduced the speed while I was pushing the gas pedal, worried about the behind car didn't notice the car is slowing due to this issue, it may incur the unexpected accident due to unexpected speed down on the highway driving. Put my car in the dealer to take a look at the issue, they indicated the issue and performed several software upgrade but they failed several times and it still didn't get fixed yet. I also heard that it has orange warning message which need to replace hydrogen related coolant must be replaced but they don't have parts to replace it immediately. There is no actual incident so far, but worrying about this unexpected delay of acceleration, and unexpected speed down could cause the accident. But they cannot figure it so far, been 4months.
Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-03-29
  • Date Complaint: 2021-05-23
  • VIN: KM8J84A62LU
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Starting March 29, 2021 fuel cell failure when pressing the accelerator, started out as an intermittent failure. Over the period of two weeks while waiting for an appointment to get the vehicle in for repair the problem increased in infrequency. When the vehicle was delivered to the dealership for repair any attempt to accelerate would cause the vehicles fuel cell to shut down and fail. As of May 23, 2021 I have requested and dealership has not released any service documents. The dealership still has possession of the vehicle.
Hyundai Nexo 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2019-10-29
  • VIN: KM8J74A6XKU
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING, A "REGENERATIVE BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE" MAY OCCUR. WHEN THIS ERROR OCCURS, BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS IS DRAMATICALLY REDUCED AND THE CAR'S SPEED IS LIMITED TO 13 MPH. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR WILL NOT CREEP FORWARD OR HOLD POSITION WHEN THE BRAKE IS RELEASED, POTENTIALLY ALLOWING THE CAR TO ROLL BACKWARD WHEN THE BRAKE IS NOT APPLIED. THE FAILURE OCCURS MOST COMMONLY WHEN THE CAR IS CREEPING FORWARD IN TRAFFIC, BUT CAN ALSO OCCUR AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. TURNING OFF THE CAR, RESTARTING IT, AND PULLING FORWARD - IN THAT ORDER - WILL CLEAR THE BRAKE FAILURE WARNING LIGHTS AND RETURN THE CAR TO NORMAL OPERATION UNTIL THE NEXT FAILURE. TIME BETWEEN FAILURES CAN BE AS LITTLE AS A FEW MINUTES AND AS GREAT AS A FEW DAYS. THE FAILURE SETS DTCS IN THE VEHICLE ECM BUT THESE CODES HAVE NOT BEEN SUFFICIENT FOR TECHNICIANS TO IDENTIFY THE FAULTY COMPONENTS. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO CUSTOMER WITHOUT THE TECHNICIANS OBSERVING THE FAILURE OR PERFORMING ANY FIX. THE CAR THEN FAILED AGAIN A FEW DAYS LATER AND HAS BEEN RETURNED TO THE DEALER FOR FURTHER ASSESSMENT.

Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Nexo

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Nexo.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
  • Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
  • Model: Hyundai Nexo 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
  • Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
  • Model: Hyundai Nexo 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
  • Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
  • Model: Hyundai Nexo 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2022-04-14
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Nexo vehicles. The hydrogen gas detection sensors may fail to detect leaks in the hydrogen gas delivery system.
  • Consequence: A hydrogen gas leak can increase the risk of a fire while parked or driving.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the hydrogen gas detection sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 12, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 225.
  • Model: Hyundai Nexo 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2022-04-14
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Nexo vehicles. The hydrogen gas detection sensors may fail to detect leaks in the hydrogen gas delivery system.
  • Consequence: A hydrogen gas leak can increase the risk of a fire while parked or driving.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the hydrogen gas detection sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 12, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 225.

Latest positive Hyundai Nexo car reviews

  1. Miles Rippin 2024-08-17

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I bought this car in January 2020 and have driven almost 6k miles (as of August 2020). I really enjoy driving it. Although the closest station to me in Los Angeles is 4 miles away, with a range of 380 miles, it's just a matter of planning ahead. I have filled up in 5 minutes at various stations in La Canada, Hollywood, South Pasadena, and Long Beach, as well as other stations in Diamond Bar, Santa Monica, Woodland Hills, Thousand Oaks, Santa Barbara, and other parts of Southern California. The fill-up process is quick and easy. The only drawback I have seen is that there is only one hydrogen pump, so if another hydrogen car is filling up, you may have to wait a few extra minutes before your turn. However, this is not the car's fault, and hopefully, more hydrogen stations will be available soon. Just like an electric car, this car takes off quickly as you accelerate. I have left behind more expensive Land Rovers, BMW X5s, Grand Cherokees, and sedans from the get-go. My wife and kids tell me they feel like they are on a plane taking off and landing as the car makes almost airplane sounds accelerating and when shutting down. Although I am leasing this vehicle, I wish I had negotiated to buy it at a lower price. I can only hope that the Gen Nexo in 2023 is even more exciting and has an even longer range than this one, so I can negotiate to buy that one. My wife likes the AC in this car better than her 2019 car or my other car. Overall, I really enjoy this car, and due to COVID, almost every weekend, we try to go hiking in Santa Barbara, Solvang, Palm Springs, the mountains, the beach, etc. I think drivers should at least test drive it and not rule it out. Additionally, if you buy (not lease), you can get a $7500 federal tax credit, and California gives you a $4500 check refund. Just make sure you apply for the rebate within 90 days of purchase.

  2. Sedrick Brakus 2024-05-26

    Vehicle year: 2020

    Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that your ride is absolutely amazing! It rides like a dream!

  3. Magnus Jacobson 2024-05-11

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I bought this car in January 2020 and have driven almost 6k miles (as of August 2020). I really enjoy driving it. Although the closest station to me in Los Angeles is 4 miles away, with a range of 380 miles, it's just a matter of planning ahead. I have filled up in 5 minutes at various stations in La Canada, Hollywood, South Pasadena, and Long Beach, as well as other stations in Diamond Bar, Santa Monica, Woodland Hills, Thousand Oaks, Santa Barbara, and other parts of Southern California. The fill-up process is quick and easy. The only drawback I have seen is that there is only one hydrogen pump, so if another hydrogen car is filling up, you may have to wait a few extra minutes before your turn. However, this is not the car's fault, and hopefully, more hydrogen stations will be available soon. Just like an electric car, this car takes off quickly as you accelerate. I have left behind more expensive Land Rovers, BMW X5s, Grand Cherokees, and sedans from the get-go. My wife and kids tell me they feel like they are on a plane taking off and landing as the car makes almost airplane sounds accelerating and when shutting down. Although I am leasing this vehicle, I wish I had negotiated to buy it at a lower price. I can only hope that the Gen Nexo in 2023 is even more exciting and has an even longer range than this one, so I can negotiate to buy that one. My wife likes the AC in this car better than her 2019 car or my other car. Overall, I really enjoy this car, and due to COVID, almost every weekend, we try to go hiking in Santa Barbara, Solvang, Palm Springs, the mountains, the beach, etc. I think drivers should at least test drive it and not rule it out. Additionally, if you buy (not lease), you can get a $7500 federal tax credit, and California gives you a $4500 check refund. Just make sure you apply for the rebate within 90 days of purchase.

  4. Brandt Monahan 2024-02-24

    Vehicle year: 2021

    Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that your ride is absolutely amazing! It rides like a dream!

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