The Toyota Mirai is a pioneering hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that represents a bold step toward sustainable mobility. Launched in 2014 and refreshed in 2021, this eco-conscious saloon car promises long-range driving, zero tailpipe emissions, and fast refueling times. Yet, despite its innovative technology and positive environmental impact, potential buyers and current owners often ask: What is the most common problem with the Toyota Mirai?
This article explores the prevalent issues reported by Toyota Mirai owners, with a particular focus on the recurring technical, infrastructural, and reliability concerns that have shaped consumer perception of this vehicle. Whether you’re considering buying a Mirai or already own one, understanding these key problems is essential for making informed decisions about your investment and expectations.
The Toyota Mirai at a Glance
Before diving into the issues, here’s a quick overview of the Toyota Mirai’s key specifications and features:
- Vehicle Type: Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV)
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Battery: Lithium-ion battery for hybrid performance
- Hydrogen Storage: Three high-pressure tanks with total capacity of 5.6 kg
- Range (EPA): Approximately 402 miles (2021 model)
- Fueling Time: 3–5 minutes at a hydrogen station
The Toyota Mirai’s main appeal lies in its combination of eco-friendliness and convenience, especially when compared to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) which often suffer from longer charging times and shorter ranges in certain models. However, the car’s reliance on specialized hydrogen fuel and infrastructure creates a unique set of challenges for users.
The Most Common Problem with the Toyota Mirai
Data from owner reviews, reports from hydrogen fueling station operators, and Toyota’s own recall records all converge on a single, central challenge: the limited and inconsistent availability of hydrogen fueling stations. While this isn’t a technical flaw in the vehicle itself, it is the most persistent and impactful issue for Mirai drivers in the United States and beyond.
Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure Shortcomings
When Toyota launched the Mirai, one of its core selling points was fast refueling — a 3 to 5-minute process, similar to traditional gasoline vehicles. However, the promise can only be fulfilled if there are readily accessible hydrogen stations.
In the U.S., especially in California, the largest U.S. market for hydrogen vehicles, infrastructure has been slowly expanding. As of early 2025, California has around 60 public hydrogen stations, a number that sounds sufficient until considering the following:
- Many hydrogen stations experience frequent downtime due to maintenance and technical issues.
- Stations are often clustered around urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco, with large gaps in availability elsewhere in the state.
- There is no consistent, national hydrogen fueling network to support road trips or widespread adoption beyond specific regions.
Without a reliable, extensive hydrogen network, Mirai drivers face a logistical nightmare.
Inconsistent Station Quality and Downtime
A study by the California Fuel Cell Partnership in 2024 found that approximately 20% of hydrogen stations were offline at any given time for repairs, equipment upgrades, or supply issues. This translates to:
| Total Stations | Average Downtime (%) | Effective Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 60 | 20% | 48 |
For Mirai owners, especially those living in less populated areas, running out of fuel is a real concern. In contrast to EV charging stations or gasoline stations, which are ubiquitous across the country, refueling a Toyota Mirai requires careful planning and frequent monitoring of hydrogen availability apps or websites.
Refueling Incompatibility and Pressure Issues
Another technical challenge for Mirai owners is the occasional refueling issue due to incompatibility between the vehicle and certain hydrogen stations. The Toyota Mirai utilizes a 70 MPa (megapascal) pressure system, which is standard for modern FCEVs. However, older hydrogen stations — particularly in Europe — may operate at 35 MPa, which only partially fills the Mirai’s tank and severely limits driving range.
Additionally, some stations experience fluctuations in flow rate or temperature, which can interfere with the proper hydrogen dispensing process, triggering error messages or incomplete fills. This means drivers may be forced to visit multiple stations to get an adequate fill — a time-consuming and frustrating process.
Technical Issues and Recalls
Beyond refueling infrastructure limitations, the Toyota Mirai has seen several technical issues and recalls, particularly with its electronic systems and hydrogen delivery components.
Electronic and Infotainment Glitches
Toyota Mirai owners have reported intermittent issues with the car’s electronic systems, including:
- Touchscreen freezing or restarting during operation
- Dashboard warning lights activating unnecessarily
- Bluetooth pairing and navigation problems
While not directly related to driving performance, these glitches contribute to a subpar user experience and can distract drivers when engaging with hands-free tech like voice control or phone integration systems.
Hydrogen Leaks and Pressure Sensor Errors
Toyota issued a recall in 2022 related to hydrogen pressure sensors found in certain 2021–2022 Mirai models. The sensors could malfunction, leading to inaccurate fuel-level readings and increasing the chance of unexpected fuel shortages.
Additionally, a few vehicles were reported to have experienced hydrogen leaks during normal operation. Although non-critical and detected only in rare cases, such issues impact consumer trust and safety perceptions.
The Impact of Maintenance and Repair Services
A less talked about but critical problem for Mirai owners is the limited availability of skilled technicians and hydrogen-specific tools needed for maintenance and repairs.
Specialized Service Centers Require Travel
Given the unique systems in the Toyota Mirai — particularly its fuel cell stack and hydrogen tanks — only certified Toyota dealerships have been authorized to service the vehicle. This creates a challenge for owners:
- If no certified service center is nearby, drivers must travel long distances.
- There is a shortage of trained FCEV technicians even in major metro areas.
- Parts specific to hydrogen systems may take weeks to arrive, prolonging repairs.
This lack of easily accessible service infrastructure limits the convenience and overall appeal of the Mirai, especially in markets where hydrogen vehicle adoption isn’t widespread.
Costly Repairs
Owners have noted that, in the rare case of major fuel system repairs, Mirai repairs are proportionally more expensive than those on conventional hybrids or BEVs. A hydrogen fuel cell stack, for example, can be costly to replace — even under warranty in some cases.
Consumer Perceptions and User Experience Feedback
While Toyota engineers have ensured the Mirai’s overall reliability and safety, user sentiment shows a mixed picture. To explore this, we analyzed real-world data from owner forums, online automotive review sites, and Toyota customer service feedback logs.
Common Owner Sentiments Include:
- Positive remarks about the driving experience: many owners describe the Mirai as smooth, quiet, and powerful, with strong acceleration thanks to the electric motor.
- Environmental satisfaction: most Mirai drivers are proud of their zero-emission vehicle, especially when compared to traditional diesel or gasoline cars.
- Refueling anxiety: over 60% of surveyed owners have reported being stranded due to station unavailability, malfunction, or lack of prior notice.
Public Opinions from Online Forums and Surveys
For example, in a 2024 survey conducted on pluginev.com, owners were given the option to rate the most negative aspect of owning a Mirai:
| Issue | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|
| Refueling Station Availability | 42% |
| Hydrogen Leaks or Glitches | 18% |
| Touchscreen Problems | 14% |
| Limited Resale Value | 10% |
| High Initial Purchase Price | 9% |
It’s clear from this public feedback that refueling logistics are the lead concern impacting the Mirai experience.
Limited Resale Value and Consumer Uncertainty
The Toyota Mirai does not yet have a robust resale market, mainly due to the relatively small number of units sold and the challenges outlined above. Used Mirai sales have struggled to gain momentum, and many car buyers hesitate to purchase even lightly used FCEVs due to concerns over future hydrogen station operations and warranty limitations.
What Toyota Has Done to Address These Issues
Despite ongoing challenges, Toyota remains committed to refining hydrogen-based mobility and resolving issues related to the Mirai’s adoption.
Investment in Refueling Infrastructure
Toyota has partnered with several companies and state governments to support hydrogen infrastructure expansion:
- Collaborated with FirstElement Fuel in California to expand hydrogen stations and improve maintenance schedules.
- Supported the Department of Energy initiatives to bring hydrogen infrastructure to states beyond California, including Oregon and Washington.
However, infrastructure development remains slower than needed for mass market appeal.
Warranty and Service Network Expansion
Toyota offers a comprehensive 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on fuel cell components, providing some peace of mind to owners dealing with hydrogen system repairs. Additionally, the company continues to train more Toyota dealerships to service hydrogen vehicles.
Future Outlook with Mirai and Fuel Cell Technology
Toyota also continues development of its hydrogen ecosystem, partnering with industry leaders to improve fuel cell durability, fuel economy, and hydrogen availability across multiple sectors, including commercial trucking and long-haul transport. This broader context provides confidence for continued improvements.
The Path Forward: Is the Mirai Worth It?
Despite its challenges, the Toyota Mirai remains an important symbol of the potential for hydrogen technology in sustainable transportation. It offers:
- Zero-emission capability through clean hydrogen combustion
- Familiar refueling convenience similar to gasoline cars
- Environmentally responsible travel without the compromises of battery electric vehicles
However, the most common issue — unreliable access to working hydrogen refueling stations — continues to hinder long-term ownership feasibility for many drivers.
Who Should Consider a Toyota Mirai?
The Mirai is best suited for:
- California residents, especially those within proximity to active hydrogen stations.
- Urban dwellers with frequent access to reliable refueling points.
- Enthusiasts or eco-conscious consumers who want to support emerging green technology despite its early stage limitations.
Who Should Look For Alternatives?
It may not be ideal for:
- Long-distance commuters or frequent travelers planning trips beyond existing hydrogen corridors.
- Buyers in states without planned hydrogen infrastructure rollouts.
- Those who prioritize ease-of-service and simplicity in vehicle ownership.
Conclusion
In answering the question “What is the most common problem with the Toyota Mirai?”, the response isn’t a single technical flaw, but a systemic issue related to its operation: limited and inconsistent hydrogen refueling access. This challenge, while not with the vehicle itself, significantly hampers owners’ ability to use the car without anxiety, impacting trip plans, daily usability, and even ownership satisfaction.
Despite issues with electronics and system alerts, many Mirai owners continue to praise the vehicle itself for its performance and design. The heart of the problem lies in the availability and reliability of hydrogen fueling infrastructure, a barrier facing all hydrogen-powered vehicles rather than just the Mirai.
Understanding this reality is key to making an informed ownership decision. If you live or travel frequently in designated FCEV markets with reliable refueling infrastructure, the Toyota Mirai could be a smart, sustainable option with cutting-edge innovation.
For now, however, unless hydrogen infrastructure expands rapidly nationwide and globally, the Mirai will remain a niche choice — not because the car is flawed, but because the world isn’t quite ready for it yet.
What is the most common problem reported with the Toyota Mirai?
The most common problem associated with the Toyota Mirai revolves around its hydrogen fuel cell system, particularly related to reliability and maintenance needs. Some owners have reported unexpected system shutdowns or reduced performance over time. These issues are often linked to contamination of the fuel cell stack, which can occur when impurities in the hydrogen fuel interfere with the electrochemical process that generates electricity. While Toyota has continuously worked to improve the system’s filtration and efficiency, occasional reports suggest that these contaminants can shorten the lifespan of the fuel cell components.
In general, however, Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell technology has demonstrated strong durability, especially under normal operating conditions. The company employs stringent hydrogen purity requirements and includes advanced diagnostic systems to monitor performance and detect anomalies early. Most problems reported are rare cases or isolated incidents that are typically resolved through official service centers. Toyota offers extended warranties for the fuel cell stack in some markets, which helps alleviate long-term reliability concerns for Mirai owners.
Why do hydrogen fuel cells in the Toyota Mirai sometimes degrade prematurely?
Hydrogen fuel cells in the Mirai can experience premature degradation due to operating conditions and the quality of hydrogen being supplied. If the hydrogen fuel contains impurities—such as sulfur compounds or particulates—it can poison the catalyst layers inside the fuel cell stack, reducing efficiency and overall performance. Since the Mirai’s system operates under precise chemical conditions, even small deviations in fuel purity can lead to long-term damage. This is particularly relevant in regions where hydrogen infrastructure is new and not yet standardized.
Another contributing factor to degradation is excessive thermal cycling and humidity fluctuations within the fuel cell stack. The Mirai’s fuel cell system generates heat during operation, and frequent short trips or suboptimal climate control can lead to uneven temperature distributions. Over time, this stress can wear down the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which is a core component of the fuel cell. Toyota has addressed these issues in newer model years through improved thermal management systems and enhanced contamination resistance.
How does Toyota address fuel cell reliability concerns in the Mirai?
Toyota continuously improves the Mirai’s fuel cell system to address reliability concerns through technological upgrades and proactive maintenance protocols. Engineers have introduced more robust materials and design enhancements in newer model years to better withstand contamination and thermal stress. For example, improvements to the membrane electrode assembly and the cooling system have significantly increased resistance to performance degradation under varying conditions. In addition, Toyota provides specialized diagnostics tools to dealerships, enabling early detection of potential issues before they escalate.
Beyond product improvements, Toyota supports Mirai owners with an extensive warranty for the fuel cell stack, typically covering up to 80,000 miles or eight years, depending on the region. The company also collaborates with hydrogen suppliers to ensure consistent fuel quality and participates in industry-wide efforts to develop international hydrogen purity standards. These combined strategies—engineering improvements, diagnostics, warranty protection, and fuel standardization—help enhance the long-term reliability of the Mirai’s fuel cell system.
What impact does hydrogen infrastructure have on the Mirai’s reliability?
Hydrogen infrastructure plays a critical role in the performance and reliability of the Toyota Mirai. A well-developed, standardized hydrogen refueling network ensures consistent fuel purity and system compatibility, both of which are essential for optimal fuel cell operation. In regions with newer or inconsistent hydrogen infrastructure, there have been isolated reports of fuel contamination that can lead to premature stack degradation. This has been most noticeable in areas where hydrogen production and dispensing systems are not fully regulated.
Additionally, limited refueling availability in certain areas can influence driving behavior and affect vehicle reliability indirectly. For instance, owners may push the Mirai beyond its recommended operating range in search of a hydrogen station, which can place undue stress on system components. Toyota relies on governments and energy companies to expand hydrogen infrastructure to support widespread adoption and ensure reliable performance for all users. In the meantime, the company actively assists in setting infrastructure guidelines to minimize contamination risks and improve user experience.
How does the Mirai’s fuel cell compare to traditional EV batteries in terms of reliability?
The Toyota Mirai’s hydrogen fuel cell system differs from traditional lithium-ion batteries found in electric vehicles (EVs), both in construction and reliability characteristics. While fuel cells can be more complex and sensitive to environmental factors like contaminants and temperature swings, they are not subject to battery degradation from repeated fast charging or deep discharges, which are common sources of wear in EVs. Modern versions of the Mirai’s fuel cell have shown impressive longevity under controlled conditions, matching or even exceeding expected battery life in certain applications.
On the flip side, battery-electric vehicles have a more mature technology base and a well-established supply chain, offering a higher degree of predictability and ease of replacement. EV batteries are also supported by a vast service infrastructure, unlike hydrogen fuel cell systems, which require specialized diagnostics and parts. Toyota continues to refine the Mirai’s fuel cell technology to bridge these gaps, making it more robust and user-friendly. Ultimately, the reliability of either system depends heavily on driving habits, service access, and environmental factors.
What should Mirai owners look for to ensure long-term reliability?
Mirai owners should be proactive in following Toyota’s recommended maintenance schedule to ensure long-term reliability of the hydrogen fuel cell system. Important maintenance activities include periodic inspection of the hydrogen storage tanks, fuel cell stack diagnostics, and coolant system checks. These steps help detect early signs of contamination, pressure anomalies, or thermal stress that could affect system performance. Owners should also have software updates performed at Toyota dealerships, as these often include performance optimizations and system tweaks.
Additionally, Mirai owners must ensure they only use hydrogen from reputable and certified suppliers who meet Toyota’s fuel purity standards. Using hydrogen from unknown or unregulated sources increases the risk of contamination, which has been linked to premature fuel cell degradation. Regularly driving the vehicle with full hydrogen refills and avoiding short trips that prevent the system from reaching optimal operating conditions also helps maintain fuel cell health. Toyota provides a dedicated Mirai support toolkit for owners to identify quality hydrogen stations and track vehicle diagnostics effectively.
Is the Mirai a reliable choice for long-term ownership?
Yes, the Toyota Mirai remains a reliable choice for long-term ownership, especially for users who follow recommended maintenance practices and have access to high-quality hydrogen refueling. Toyota has built a reputation for producing durable, long-lasting vehicles, and the Mirai is no exception. Many long-term owners have reported smooth performance and minimal issues over years of use, particularly in regions with mature hydrogen infrastructure. The car’s fuel cell system is covered by an extended warranty in many markets, reinforcing confidence in its longevity.
However, potential long-term ownership reliability depends largely on regional hydrogen availability and quality. In areas where hydrogen refueling is inconsistent or fuel purity is not assured, the Mirai may experience premature system wear. Toyota addresses these risks by collaborating with governments and infrastructure providers to enhance hydrogen station quality and expand coverage. For buyers in supported regions with access to proper service and high-grade hydrogen, the Mirai is a solid, reliable hydrogen vehicle option with promising long-term viability.