Interested in purchasing a used Toyota Mirai? Discover the reasons Why Are Used Toyota Mirai So Cheap, and whether it’s worth taking the plunge.
Understanding the Toyota Mirai
The Toyota Mirai is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle that was first released in 2015. It’s powered by an electric motor that uses energy generated by a fuel cell stack to power the vehicle.
The Mirai is known for its innovative technology and eco-friendly design, making it a popular choice among eco-conscious drivers.
However, many buyers can purchase used Toyota Mirai models for significantly less than their original price despite their cutting-edge features.
This begs the question: Why are used Toyota Mirai so cheap?
Also read: Why Are Used Ford Explorers So Cheap?
Reasons for the Low Price of Used Toyota Mirai
- Limited Hydrogen Fueling Stations
One of the primary reasons for the low price of used Toyota Mirai models is the lack of infrastructure for refueling.
Unlike traditional gasoline vehicles, which can be fueled up at virtually any gas station, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles require specialized refueling stations.
As of 2023, there are only a few dozen hydrogen fueling stations in the entire United States, making it difficult for drivers to refuel their Mirai when traveling long distances.
- High Cost of New Models
The high cost of new models is another reason for used Toyota Mirai vehicles being priced low.
The MSRP of a new Toyota Mirai is around $58,500, making it one of the more expensive vehicles on the market.
The high cost of new models may deter some drivers from purchasing a new Mirai, leading to a surplus of used models.
- Limited Demand
Finally, the limited demand for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles may be another reason for the low price of used Toyota Mirai models.
Despite their eco-friendly features, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have yet to gain widespread popularity among consumers.
As a result, there may be a surplus of used models on the market, driving down the price.
Is Toyota Mirai Worth Buying?
If you’re considering purchasing a used Toyota Mirai, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of this unique vehicle. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly: The Toyota Mirai is one of the most eco-friendly vehicles on the market, producing only water as a byproduct.
- Advanced Technology: The Mirai’s fuel cell stack technology is cutting-edge, making it a popular choice among tech enthusiasts.
- High-Quality Construction: We know Toyota for producing high-quality, reliable vehicles, and the Mirai is no exception.
Cons:
- Limited Refueling Options: As mentioned earlier, the limited infrastructure for hydrogen refueling can be a significant downside for some drivers.
- High Maintenance Costs: The Mirai’s fuel cell stack requires regular maintenance and replacement, which can be costly.
- Limited Range: The Mirai’s range is currently around 400 miles per tank, which may not be sufficient for some drivers.
How Long Does a Toyota Mirai Last?
A Toyota Mirai’s lifespan depends on maintenance, driving habits, and road conditions like any other vehicle.
However, with proper care and maintenance, a Mirai can last for many years.
The Mirai’s fuel cell stack has a designed lifespan of about 150,000 miles, and it will require replacement thereafter.
Factor in fuel cell stack replacement cost for long-term maintenance.
Also read: Why Are Used Audis So Cheap?
How Much Does It Cost to Refuel a Toyota Mirai
Refueling a Toyota Mirai with hydrogen fuel typically costs around $15-$20 per kilogram.
The Mirai’s fuel tank can hold up to 5 kilograms of hydrogen, giving it a range of around 400 miles.
This means that a full tank of hydrogen fuel will cost around $75-$100.
Fueling a Toyota Mirai may cost differently depending on location and hydrogen station availability.
Limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure can make finding a nearby station difficult, particularly in certain areas.
How Many Miles Will a 2017 Toyota Mirai Last?
A 2017 Toyota Mirai’s lifespan depends on maintenance, driving habits, and road conditions.
If you take good care of it and maintain it properly, a 2017 Mirai can last for several years.
Toyota offers a warranty for the Mirai’s fuel cell stack, which is designed to last for around 150,000 miles.
This means that if you purchase a used 2017 Mirai with relatively low mileage, you can expect the fuel cell stack to last for many years to come.
Keep in mind that you should consider the high cost of fuel cell stack replacement as part of your long-term maintenance expenses.
Conclusion
Used Toyota Mirai cars are cheap because of limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure, high cost of new models, and low demand for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
Consider the pros and cons before buying the eco-friendly and technologically advanced Toyota Mirai.
The limited range and high maintenance costs of the Mirai may be significant drawbacks for some drivers.
Consider maintenance costs and fuel availability before buying a used Toyota Mirai.
Proper maintenance can make a Mirai a good investment for the right driver.