2020 Hyundai Nexo Safety Report

The 2020 Hyundai Nexo presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to significant recall activity and a small but concerning pattern of complaints related to its unique fuel cell propulsion system. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this model, four safety recalls have been issued, addressing critical components such as the fuel system, brakes, and electrical system. Two recalls specifically target the hydrogen fuel system, with NHTSA Campaign Number 24V761000000 addressing a thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) that could break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, increasing fire risk. Another recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V620000) concerns hydrogen gas detection sensors that may fail to detect leaks, also posing a fire hazard. Complaint data, though limited to 7 total, aligns with these recall concerns. Several complaints describe sudden power loss, particularly when driving uphill or at highway speeds, with diagnoses pointing to fuel cell stack issues. For instance, one complaint details "severe safety issues from sudden power loss when driving, especially when overtaking and driving on highways and/or uphill," attributed to a fuel-cell stack failure. Another mentions the vehicle's "failure to respond to input from the accelerator pedal, particularly at speeds between 45-65 mph." These issues directly impact vehicle control and safety. Beyond the fuel system, recalls also address potential braking issues (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V790000, concerning reduced braking power due to an Integrated Electronic Brake system anomaly) and unintended vehicle movement from the Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) software (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V746000). The low number of overall complaints (7 total, 0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, 0 deaths) is likely due to the vehicle's niche market and limited sales volume. However, the nature of the complaints and the four recalls highlight serious potential safety risks, particularly those related to hydrogen leaks and sudden power loss, which are critical for a vehicle's safe operation.

Our recommendation: Given the significant recalls concerning hydrogen fuel leaks, potential fire risks, and reported power loss issues, prospective buyers should exercise extreme caution and ensure all four recalls have been completed by a Hyundai dealership before considering purchase.