Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Recall Fix Sparks New, Even Scarier Issue

Last week, Hyundai issued a recall for 1,508 Ioniq 5 Ns across the U.S., citing a major issue with the car’s Left-Foot Braking mode. This feature, designed for high-speed driving, lets the driver use the brake and accelerator pedals simultaneously—ideal for racing scenarios. But it came with a catch. According to Hyundai’s report to the NHTSA, using this feature could trigger a depressurization in the ABS, which would reduce braking performance—not exactly what you want happening when you’re flying down a straightaway.

To address this, Hyundai rolled out a software update to fix the glitch in the braking system’s electronic control unit. Dealerships were notified, and owners were told to stop using Left-Foot Braking until the update was installed.

But now, some owners say the “fix” brought a new, even more dangerous issue.

According to multiple reports from Ioniq 5 N drivers, the car accelerates independently, even when the driver’s foot is off the pedal. One owner described it as follows: “The car continues to accelerate in N-shift mode after letting off the accelerator, which is extremely dangerous.” 

Videos online show Ioniq 5 Ns speeding up unexpectedly—a nightmare scenario for any driver, especially in a vehicle that can hit 0-60 mph in around 3 seconds.

And that’s not the only post-recall gripe. Some owners noticed that after the update, the car’s simulated gear shifts feel duller, the motor sound is quieter, and the overall aggressive feel they loved is gone. In other words, Hyundai may have dialed back the car’s performance personality—without warning.

To be clear, these reports are still being investigated, and Hyundai hasn’t issued a second recall—yet. But the early signs aren’t great. Some drivers have contacted the NHTSA and Hyundai about the acceleration issue, while others are left wondering if more software updates are available.

Let’s be real—this isn’t just about one EV model. This shows the growing pains in software-driven cars, especially performance EVs. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs rely on code just as much as hardware, and sometimes, a fix for one problem can create an unintended domino effect.

For Hyundai, this is a critical moment. The Ioniq 5 N is more than just another EV—it’s a statement. It’s their shot at proving that electric cars can be fun, fast, and fearless. But if early adopters are left worried about sudden acceleration—or feeling like their car’s been nerfed—it threatens that entire message.

Hyundai advises drivers to avoid left-foot brakes and stay tuned for further updates. But for owners, the big question is this: Can you trust a performance car that might accelerate when you least expect it?

Software issues in EVs aren’t new, but this one cuts deep—because the Ioniq 5 N was supposed to be the future of fun-to-drive EVs. Instead, it’s stuck in damage control, and only time will tell if Hyundai can regain drivers’ trust.

Stay tuned—because if these reports keep growing, we could be looking at another recall and some serious questions about Hyundai’s performance EV game plan.