2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Safety Report

The 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for side and rollover, and 4 stars for frontal impact, there are significant concerns regarding its electrical system reliability. With 354 total complaints, a substantial portion, 139, are related to the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM', often specifically citing the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) failure. This issue has led to a loss of drive power, leaving drivers stranded, and is directly linked to two of the three recalls issued for this vehicle. The third recall addresses a potential rear inner driveshaft issue, also leading to a loss of drive power. The most common complaint pattern revolves around the ICCU, which, despite software updates and recalls, continues to be a recurring problem for many owners. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle entering 'limp mode' or becoming completely inoperable, sometimes after hearing a 'pop' sound. These failures have occurred even after recall work was performed, indicating a persistent underlying defect. The consequences of these failures are severe, with reports of drivers being stranded on highways or in cold temperatures, increasing the risk of a crash due to sudden power loss. The vehicle has been associated with 8 crashes, 1 fire, and 2 injuries, which, while low in absolute numbers, are concerning given the nature of the electrical system failures. Hyundai has issued three recalls for the 2023 IONIQ 5. Two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 23V-651 and 23V-652) specifically address the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) and its potential to cause a loss of drive power. The third recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 23V-653) concerns an improperly heat-treated rear inner driveshaft, which can also lead to a loss of drive power. The high volume of complaints related to the electrical system, particularly the ICCU, suggests that these recalls and subsequent repairs may not have fully resolved the underlying issue, as many owners report repeat failures even after recall service. This indicates a significant reliability concern despite the strong crash test ratings.

Our recommendation: While the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers excellent crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of the widespread and persistent Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) failures, which can lead to a sudden loss of power and leave you stranded, even after recall repairs. Thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history for ICCU replacements and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.