by The Tradition of DIY Repair and Modern Challenges
Servicing one’s own car has always been a point of pride for some and a financial necessity for others. Routine operations, such as replacing fluids, filters, or brake pads, were part of the standard maintenance ritual for millions of drivers.
However, for one Hyundai Ioniq 5 N owner, this sense of self-sufficiency recently met an obstacle, or more precisely, a brake caliper. He discovered that replacing the rear brake pads on his electric vehicle was not as straightforward as it used to be. Hyundai has already responded to this.
Unexpected Complexity for Active Drivers
It might seem strange that someone has already managed to wear out the rear brake pads, especially on an electric car, but this happened because the owner used the car as the manufacturer intended: aggressively and on the track.
When he tried to replace these pads, it turned out that it was necessary to deactivate the electronic parking brake mechanism. This is where this routine job became dangerous.
When Maintenance Becomes Complicated
One way to deactivate the brake is by using Hyundai’s global diagnostic system. This software and accompanying equipment can cost nearly $6000, as seen online. However, there is another option – the J2534 diagnostic tool, which Hyundai supports, as confirmed by an official document.
According to the owner, the software costs $60 per week or less for longer periods of use, and also requires a J2534 adapter, which can be found for approximately $2000.
Currently, Hyundai approves only three variants of this tool: CarDAQ Plus 3, Bosch MTS 6531, and DG Technologies d-briDGe PRO, stating that “under no circumstances is the use of uncertified J2534 devices recommended.”
The Need for Authentication
Furthermore, using the tool requires special authentication from the National Automotive Service Task Force and a constant internet connection.
But the main point is that access to this software is only available to certified repair shops or businesses. NASTF representatives informed the owner that “NASTF credentials are intended for use by qualified technicians, mechanics, or locksmiths working in businesses that provide repair or replacement services.”
Hyundai’s Position
Before publishing the initial material on this issue, journalists reached out to Hyundai for comment. After the article was released, the manufacturer provided Carscoops with the following statement:
Hyundai is committed to supporting both its dealer network and independent repair shops with safe, secure, and accessible service solutions. For vehicles equipped with electronic parking brakes, including the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 5 N, the official repair procedure requires placing the rear calipers into service mode using our global diagnostic system or the J2534 application. This ensures proper functionality and customer safety. Hyundai recently expanded access through updates to our J2534 program, allowing aftermarket users to perform functions previously restricted by the GDS secure gateway. While sensitive operations require authentication through NASTF, this step helps maintain safety and accountability. Our official dealer tool is also available for purchase by anyone. Hyundai is actively exploring ways to facilitate routine maintenance for all customers while adhering to safety standards. We appreciate the interest in DIY repair and will continue to work on solutions that combine convenience with safety.
Seeking additional information, journalists asked Hyundai to clarify whether a qualified owner could realistically perform this job at home. The company provided the following explanation:
Owners who service their vehicles themselves can replace brake pads on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 5 N, but it requires specific steps and tools. Because these vehicles use electronic parking brakes, the rear calipers must be placed into service mode using Hyundai’s global diagnostic system or the J2534 application with a compatible device. Both tools are publicly available, although GDS is more expensive, and J2534 requires NASTF authentication for protected functions. Without these tools, the job cannot be performed safely, as manual deactivation can damage components. Hyundai does not restrict DIY repair; on the contrary, recent updates have expanded access, and we continue to explore ways to facilitate routine maintenance while preserving safety and security.
Conclusions and Perspectives
So, such a job can be done. But if you don’t have specialized tools or deep pockets, the process can cost almost as much as an old used car from the classifieds.
For now, at least until a cheaper alternative solution appears, replacing the rear brake pads on the Ioniq 5 N remains a type of maintenance that is probably best left to professionals.
This situation with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N points to a broader trend in the automotive industry, especially with the advent of electric vehicles and advanced electronic systems. On one hand, manufacturers aim to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized interventions that could lead to serious consequences. On the other hand, this limits the traditional rights of owners to service their own vehicles and creates additional financial barriers. Technological progress seems to be changing not only the ways we travel but also the very principles of car ownership, raising questions about who should control access to a vehicle’s critical systems.
