6 Best & Worst Hyundai Ioniq Years (Stats & Examples)

The Hyundai Ioniq, since its debut in 2016, has captured the attention of eco-conscious drivers with its efficient hybrid and electric powertrain options, making it a popular choice for those seeking a greener driving experience. 

However, not all model years are made equal. 

In this article, we dive into the Hyundai Ioniq’s best and worst model years to help you make an informed purchase decision. 

The Best and Worst Years for Hyundai Ioniq Are:

The latest Hyundai Ioniq models (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022) are regarded for their reliability. However, industry experts advise against the 2017 model due to the most known issues of any model.

What Hyundai Ioniq Years Are the Most Reliable?

Determining the most reliable Hyundai Ioniq years requires analyzing various factors, including customer feedback, industry reviews, and reliability ratings. 

While individual experiences may vary, certain model years have garnered a reputation for their dependability and long-lasting performance. 

Based on available data and expert assessments, the following Hyundai Ioniq years have been recognized as some of the most reliable.

2020 – 2022 Hyundai Ioniq

When it comes to discussing the reliability of the 2020-2022 Hyundai Ioniq models, several factors stand out that contribute to their overall dependability. 

Let’s dive into these aspects and explore how they have made these models a reliable choice for drivers:

Solid build quality: Hyundai has paid meticulous attention to the construction of the Ioniq, utilizing high-quality materials and employing precise engineering techniques.

As a result, owners have reported fewer structural and mechanical issues, which is a testament to the vehicle’s durability and longevity.

Efficient powertrains: Whether you opt for the hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric variant, the seamless integration of electric motors and internal combustion engines ensures a smooth transition between power sources.

This contributes to a reliable and consistent driving experience.

Advanced technology: Hyundai has equipped these models with an array of cutting-edge safety features. By actively mitigating potential risks, these features inspire confidence and contribute to the overall reliability of the vehicle.

The user-friendly infotainment system: This prioritizes intuitive interfaces, incorporating touchscreen displays, smartphone integration (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and voice recognition technology.

These systems minimize distractions and allow drivers to focus on the road, contributing to the vehicle’s overall reliability.

Warranty coverage: This adds an extra layer of confidence for Ioniq owners. The warranties provide reassurance and demonstrate Hyundai’s commitment to standing behind the reliability of its vehicles.

By combining the above factors, the 2020-2022 Hyundai Ioniq models have established themselves as reliable options for eco-conscious drivers seeking advanced technology and peace of mind on the road. 

2019 Hyundai Ioniq

The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq generally received positive reviews from consumers. 

However, it’s important to note that a recall was issued for the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric hatchback model, which could impact its reliability.

A recall of 2,679 Hyundai Ioniq Electric hatchbacks from model years 2017-2019 was initiated to address a potential unintended-acceleration issue. 

The recall was prompted by an unstable electrical ground, which could cause the affected vehicles to enter a fail-safe mode that might lead to unintended acceleration after the accelerator pedal is released. 

Hyundai became aware of this issue through media reports of alleged unintended acceleration in the Korean market. It’s worth noting that Hyundai reported not being aware of any crashes or injuries related to this issue. 

To rectify the problem, Hyundai dealerships offered to update the vehicle software and repair the ground wiring free of charge.

Owners are typically notified via mail about the recall and informed of when they should take their vehicles to dealerships for the necessary repairs.

Owners of the affected 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric models need to adhere to the recall notice and have the repairs performed as soon as possible to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

When considering the purchase of a used 2019 Hyundai Ioniq, it is advisable to review the recall status of the vehicle and ensure that the previous owner or dealership has addressed any necessary recalls or repairs.

As always, conducting a thorough inspection and researching individual vehicle histories can provide a clearer understanding of the car’s condition and potential concerns.

2018 Hyundai Ioniq

Despite being an earlier iteration, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq has demonstrated promising reliability based on available data and owner feedback. 

Owners of the 2018 Ioniq have reported minimal issues and high satisfaction levels, indicating a positive ownership experience. 

The solid build quality and high-quality materials used in its construction provide a sturdy foundation for long-term durability. 

The advanced safety and technology features found in the 2018 Ioniq further contribute to its reliability. Potential buyers can expect safety technologies, such as: 

• Forward collision warning
• Lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control

When comparing the reliability of the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq to the previously discussed 2020-2022 models, it’s important to consider the differences that may exist between them.

While the 2018 Ioniq maintains the core attributes of solid construction, efficient powertrains, and advanced technology found in the later models, there are some notable distinctions to be aware of. 

One key difference is that the 2018 model represents an earlier iteration of the Ioniq, which means it may not benefit from certain updates and refinements implemented in subsequent years.

Therefore, considering Hyundai continuously works to improve dependability, the 2020-2022 Ioniq models may have received certain enhancements and updates to improve reliability, performance, and overall user experience based on the learnings from earlier models.

Additionally, the 2018 Ioniq, being a slightly older model, may have different considerations in terms of maintenance and potential wear and tear compared to the more recent models. 

Here is a comparative table for the 2020-2022 and 2018 model years:

What Hyundai Ioniq Years Should You Avoid?

While Hyundai has generally received positive reviews for their Ioniq models, there are a few years that have experienced some issues or received mixed feedback. 

It’s important to note that these concerns may vary depending on specific model years. 

However, based on owner satisfaction and industry experts, the following years have been associated with certain concerns that potential buyers may want to consider.

2017 Hyundai Ioniq

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq has received some attention for its reliability concerns, with a notable number of complaints registered on CarComplaints.com. 

While it’s important to consider that individual experiences can vary, the high number of complaints for this particular model year suggests that there may have been some prevalent issues reported by owners.

One of the primary areas of concern for the 2017 Ioniq was its transmission. Several owners reported problems with the transmission, including:

• Rough shifting
• Hesitation
• Transmission failure

These issues not only affected the overall driving experience but also raised questions about the long-term reliability of the vehicle.

Several complaints involved the audio system; these included intermittent or total loss of sound, malfunctioning controls, and even complete system failure.

Another reported problem with the 2017 Ioniq was premature wear on the brake pads. Several owners mentioned that they had to replace their brake pads much earlier than expected, raising concerns about the vehicle’s longevity and cost.

It’s worth noting that these issues may not have affected all 2017 Hyundai Ioniq vehicles, as experiences can vary between individual cars. 

However, the significant number of complaints registered on CarComplaints.com does indicate that there were a notable number of owners who encountered problems with this particular model year.

What Are Some Typical Problems With the Hyundai Ioniq Models?

The Hyundai Ioniq has gained popularity for its fuel efficiency, eco-friendly features, and overall positive reception. 

However, like any vehicle, there have been reported issues with certain model years of the Hyundai Ioniq. 

While these problems may not be widespread, it’s important to be aware of potential issues that some owners have experienced. 

Here are some typical problems that have been reported with Hyundai Ioniq models:

• Loses power when going uphill
• Problems with the transmission
• Electrical equipment malfunctioning
• Irreplaceable headlight
• Updated maps and GPS not working

For a more in-depth review, please read our article about common problems with Hyundai Ioniq vehicles.

To make an informed decision, it’s recommended to research specific model years, read owner reviews, and consult with trusted sources such as mechanics or Hyundai dealerships. 

These resources can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding any potential problems associated with the Hyundai Ioniq. 

Go Back: Overview over best and worst years for all Hyundai car models.

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.