What kind of maintenance does a Mirai need?

Like other Toyota hybrids, the Mirai requires regular maintenance, but with extra attention to the hydrogen fuel system and the fuel‑cell cooling loop, along with routine items such as tires, brakes, and fluids. There are no traditional engine oil changes, but you still need periodic checks of the battery, safety systems, and software updates.

Understanding how a Mirai is serviced helps owners plan ahead. The Mirai is a hydrogen fuel‑cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that combines electric drive with a hydrogen storage and fuel‑cell stack system. Maintenance focuses on the fuel‑cell system, cooling circuits, high‑voltage safety, and common hybrid wear items—along with standard care like tires, brakes, and cabin air filtration.

Routine maintenance tasks

The following tasks cover the routine service items Mirai owners typically encounter at regular dealer visits. They emphasize safety, efficiency, and ongoing reliability.

• Tire rotation and brake inspections, with alignment checks as needed.


• Brake fluid and general brake system checks, noting that regenerative braking can affect wear differently from conventional cars.


• 12V auxiliary battery inspection and replacement when needed, since this battery powers electronics and access systems.


• Cabin air filter and exterior air intake filter replacement to maintain airflow and interior air quality.


• Windshield wiper blade replacement and fluid level checks for visibility and safety.


• Fluid level checks and coolant monitoring for the fuel‑cell cooling loop and other cooling circuits; this may include coolant replacement per Toyota’s schedule.


• On‑board software updates and general diagnostics to ensure the vehicle’s control systems run correctly.

Regular attention to these items helps keep the Mirai efficient and safe, while supporting the longevity of its electric drivetrain and hydrogen system.

Hydrogen system and fuel-cell maintenance

The Mirai’s distinctive maintenance needs center on the hydrogen storage, fuel‑cell stack, and associated safety systems. These checks are performed by trained technicians and are essential for safety and reliability.

• Inspection of hydrogen storage tanks, fittings, and pressure relief devices for signs of wear or leaks.


• Fuel‑cell stack and cooling system checks, including coolant levels and circulation in the fuel‑cell cooling loop.


• High‑voltage system safety inspections, insulation tests, and electrical diagnostics to protect occupants and service personnel.


• Hydrogen lines, connectors, and sensor checks to ensure proper operation and leak prevention.


• Diagnostic scans focused on fuel‑cell management software and related control modules, with updates as needed.

Because hydrogen systems involve pressurized fuel and high‑voltage components, these inspections are typically scheduled at authorized Toyota service centers with staff trained in FCEV procedures.

Maintenance intervals and planning

Maintenance intervals vary by model year, market, and specific vehicle usage. The following outlines reflect common practice and the need to consult your owner’s manual or a Toyota dealer for exact timing and service items.

• Routine service visits (covering tires, brakes, and general inspections) are normally scheduled at regular intervals, often aligned with annual or mileage-based reminders.


• Tire rotations and alignment checks usually occur at or around each standard service visit, depending on wear and driving conditions.


• Cabin and air filters are replaced according to the factory maintenance schedule, typically at defined mileages or years.


• 12V battery checks are performed at most service visits, with replacement as needed based on performance and climate impact.


• Fluid and coolant checks for the fuel‑cell system are performed at recommended service milestones; replacements follow Toyota’s specified intervals.


• Software updates and system diagnostics are conducted as needed, or during scheduled service to keep control modules current.

Always refer to the official Mirai maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, or check with a Toyota dealer for the exact intervals applicable to your year and region.

What to expect at a service visit

Service visits for a Mirai are performed by technicians trained in hydrogen fuel‑cell technology and Toyota’s hybrid systems. Expect a combination of safety checks, diagnostic tests, and routine maintenance tasks tailored to FCEVs.

• Pre‑service safety briefing and vehicle inspection, including checks of external hydrogen connections if applicable.


• Inspection of hydrogen tanks, fittings, and the fuel‑cell cooling system for signs of wear or leakage.


• High‑voltage system safety checks and electrical diagnostics to protect both the vehicle and service staff.


• Core maintenance tasks such as tire rotation, brake inspection, filter changes, and fluid checks as per schedule.


• Software updates and calibration of vehicle control systems, followed by a test drive to confirm proper operation.

After the visit, you’ll receive a service report noting any recommended repairs and the next service window. Always use an authorized Toyota service center to ensure proper handling of hydrogen and high‑voltage systems.

Summary

The Mirai’s maintenance blends standard hybrid care—tires, brakes, filters, fluids, and battery checks—with specialized checks for the hydrogen fuel‑cell system, hydrogen storage safety, and high‑voltage safety. Scheduling and exact items depend on the model year and market, so consult your owner’s manual and work with an authorized Toyota service center for the precise maintenance plan. With proper service, the Mirai can deliver reliable performance while preserving the efficiency advantages of hydrogen fuel‑cell propulsion.

How much is maintenance on a Toyota Mirai?

The Toyota Mirai's first 10 years of maintenance and repair costs are estimated to be around $3,180, which is lower than the industry average for popular sedans. Maintenance intervals are similar to traditional cars, involving inspections rather than oil changes, and can cost around $485 per year according to one source. However, these estimates do not include the cost of hydrogen fuel, which can be expensive, and some owners face challenges with the limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
 
Estimated costs

• 10-year estimate: Approximately $3,180 for maintenance and repairs over a 10-year period, which is lower than the industry average for sedans. 
• 5-year estimate: Approximately $1,196 for maintenance and expected repairs over five years. 
• Annual estimate: Around $485 per year, though this figure can vary and is a rough estimate. 

Maintenance details

• Intervals: The Mirai has regular 5,000-mile maintenance intervals, similar to a traditional car.
• Type of service: Instead of oil changes, these maintenance intervals primarily consist of inspections to ensure the vehicle is in top condition. 

Important considerations

• Hydrogen fueling: The cost of hydrogen fuel is a separate and significant expense, estimated at around $200 per fill-up. 
• Infrastructure: The availability of hydrogen fueling stations can be limited, particularly outside of California, which can lead to frustration for owners. 
• Dealer network: Maintenance and repairs for the Mirai may only be available at a limited number of dealerships, which can be an inconvenience. 

What maintenance does a Mirai need?

The Mirai has regular 5,000-mile maintenance intervals just like a traditional vehicle; however, since there is no oil to change, most maintenance intervals are composed of inspections to help ensure your Mirai is staying in top condition.

How long will a Toyota Mirai last?

A Toyota Mirai's lifespan is not definitively known, but the fuel cell components are expected to last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, similar to conventional gasoline or EV engines. Toyota provides a specific 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty for the fuel cell system. Proper maintenance, responsible driving habits, and avoiding excessive weight will help maximize the vehicle's longevity. 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Fuel cell lifespan: The lifespan of the fuel cell is estimated to be between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, similar to other types of engines. 
• Fuel cell warranty: Toyota includes an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty on the fuel cell stack components. 
• Maintenance: Proper maintenance, including regular air filter changes and avoiding driving in very dusty conditions, is crucial for the fuel cell's longevity. 
• Driving habits: Avoiding aggressive driving and driving on terrain the vehicle isn't designed for can help extend the life of all components. 
• Vehicle weight: Carrying excessive cargo can put added pressure on various components and potentially shorten the lifespan of the vehicle. 

Other considerations

• Hydrogen tanks: The high-pressure hydrogen tanks are designed to be durable but are sometimes noted in forums as having a shorter lifespan (around 10 years), though this is not a widely publicized issue and is often a point of user discussion on platforms like Reddit. 
• Infrastructure: The long-term viability of the vehicle may also be impacted by the availability and reliability of hydrogen refueling stations, which is an ongoing concern for many owners. 

What is the most common problem with the Toyota Mirai?

A major selling point of the Toyota Mirai is its hydrogen fuel system, which powers the car. However, several owners have reported issues with the fuel system, including leaks and poor fuel efficiency. Sometimes, the fuel cell fails to perform as expected, leading to a loss of power and driving range.