Nissan Kicks problems
The Nissan Kicks (Japanese: 日産・キックス, Hepburn: Nissan Kikkusu) is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Nissan since 2016. The crossover was initially introduced as a concept car under the same name and was premiered at the 2014 São Paulo International Motor Show. Nissan claimed the concept is inspired by the streets of Brazil. Currently, the Kicks nameplate is used for two similar-looking vehicles, albeit being built on different platforms with different dimensions.
The V platform-based Kicks debuted in São Paulo, Brazil in mid-2016 with the P15 chassis code. The car was designed collaboratively by Nissan's design headquarters in Atsugi, Japan, Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, and Nissan Design America Rio de Janeiro. The Kicks was then gradually rolling out across Latin America, then it entered the United States and Canada in 2018 to replace the Juke as the subcompact crossover offering in both countries.
The B0 platform-based Kicks was introduced in India in January 2019 with the D15 chassis code. The company stated the vehicle is built on the platform to reduce production costs. It is slightly larger than the V platform-based Kicks, and retained the same wheelbase as the first-generation Dacia Duster and the B0 platform-based Renault Captur. The D15 Kicks ceased production in 2023.
The second-generation Kicks was introduced for the North American market in March 2024.
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Nissan Kicks model years
Common Nissan Kicks problems
The Nissan Kicks, a small front-wheel drive crossover, has been known to have several common problems, particularly in the 2019 model year. The most-reported problem is the need for a throttle body replacement, which can cost an average of $1,300 to fix, with no reported average mileage at which the problem occurs.
Electrical problems are another common issue, with some owners reporting blown horns, loss of power while driving uphill, and malfunctioning warning lights. A 2020 Nissan Kicks owner reported that the car has a damaged part inside the steering wheel, which costs thousands of dollars to replace. The same owner also reported that the car's electrical system causes it to lose power while driving uphill, and that Nissan has yet to address the issue.
The Kicks is also known for sensor problems, with multiple owners reporting issues with the front warning sensor detecting collisions when no other vehicle is in view. This can cause the engine malfunction light to come on randomly, as well as the crash sensors warning to activate. One owner reported that their 2020 Kicks has had multiple sensor issues, including coming to a complete stop on the highway, since purchasing it new. Despite taking the vehicle to the dealership for repairs, the issues have not been resolved.
The Kicks' continuously variable transmission (CVT) has also been a source of complaints, with some owners reporting that it can slip and make a grinding sound. This can be a costly problem to fix, as the transmission is expensive to replace if it fails. While Nissan has updated the CVT in their 2019+ models, there are still reports of issues with the transmission, particularly right outside the warranty window.
Finally, the Kicks' engine has been known to have problems, with some owners reporting that the car shuts off while driving or does not accelerate beyond 35 mph. An owner of a 2021 Nissan Kicks reported that their car's engine light came on and the car would not shift gears, despite being new with zero miles on it.
In summary, the Nissan Kicks has several common problems, particularly in the 2019 model year. These issues include throttle body replacement, electrical problems, sensor problems, CVT transmission issues, and engine problems. While Nissan has updated the CVT in their 2019+ models, there are still reports of issues with the transmission. Owners have reported that these problems can be costly to fix and may not be covered under warranty.
Is a Nissan Kicks a reliable car?
The 2021 model gets a freshening with various interior and exterior updates, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These are good, safe, reliable models with the lowest transaction prices.
Does Nissan Kicks have transmission problems?
2023 Nissan Kicks Transmission Problems
Transmission fluid leaks are the most common and urgent sign you need a transmission fluid change or potentially even a complete flush service. It's uncommon, but leaks could still mean there's an issue with your transmission hose.
Why is Nissan Kicks not selling?
The troubles came to life in the malfunctioning front collision sensors, sudden braking with apparent obstacles ahead, faults with the electrical components, issues with the transmission, and other issues. They appeared often and were expensive for owners of the Nissan Kicks to maintain.
What are the pros and cons of a Nissan Kick?
The 2024 Nissan Kicks is an accessible, affordable SUV that shines in city driving and commuting. While it compromises on interior quality and power, it's still an attractive option if you're looking for reliability on a budget.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Kicks years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Kicks cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Kicks model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Kicks model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Kicks years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Kicks car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Kicks , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Kicks vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Kicks model years
A total of 17 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Kicks model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 283 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Kicks . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Kicks vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU4KL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Issues with MAF sensor. All the lights on dashboard illuminated while the car was difficult to accelerate down the driveway. Reader at auto parts centers showed fault with the mass airflow sensor. Sensor and battery have been replaced 3x since getting the vehicle in 2019. Lights on dashboard and reader code shows fault with the MAF sensor again! Car lags when accelerating and doesn’t feel like it has full power. Car has had issues not turning on in parking lot. ALL Dash lights turn on immediately after driving vehicle. Message “malfunction see owner’s manual”.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU3KL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the ABS warning light illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ABS actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 12,565.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU0KL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle dies during operation becase of mas airflow sensor. Replaced sensor now it needs nossan diagnostic tool to relearn and I'm being required to pay a minimum of 300 for this service on top of the 250 I paid for the part. This car is shutting off in the middle of intersections.
Nissan Kicks 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU8JL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: ABS system warning light turns on and off, and ABS fails after 50,000 miles on vehicle. System requires ABS actuator replacement, but replacement isn't reliable. Nissan has been contacted and refused to acknowledge issue or offer assistance with issue. This has been an issue in ALL Nissan Kicks and Leaf models dating back to 2018 and through current models. I believe a recall should be instated for this problem because multiple cars could potentially be driving without their ABS systems active. This could lead to poor ability to stop in inclement weather and could lead to more accidents on highways. The lights randomly turning off could mislead drivers into thinking that nothing is wrong with their vehicles. Upon first inspection at local Nissan dealership they reported no problem but loose battery terminal.
Nissan Kicks 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV8LL
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The LDW sensors do not function and Nissan tells me it would cost 2300.00 to fix the problem. After researching, I find that this is a common, known problem with this make, model and year of vehicle. I feel that NHSTA should get Nissan to issue a recall.
Nissan Kicks 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV4LL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission is defective by design. Fails in an unsafe manner which leaves the vehicle in a fully driving state throwing no error codes. The car however with randomly loose traction and slip while driving at roughly 40 mph. Nissan refused to address the issue without ~$8k to replace the transmission and online articles suggest these are defective and will just break again soon after replacing.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU3KL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Car often sputters then shows front collision warning light then stalls. Mass airflow sensor has been changed and problem persists. Radio volume changes on its own. Software is up-to-date.
Nissan Kicks 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV1LL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: LIMP MODE defect occured WHILE ON HIGHWAY in the middle of the country of USA.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-08
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU6KL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: My 2018 Nissan kicks stalled several times, twice while at a stop light and once while driving. There was no warning or any indicators letting me know that the vehicle stalled. The two times at the light I was only able to notice because I couldn’t get the car to go while pressing the gas. The time I was driving the car suddenly stalled and slowed down and the steering wheel became stiff. I had to place it in neutral and pull over. I took my car to the manufacturer where I bought the car and explained it to them. It stalled in them as well but they couldn’t find a reason for it and told me that it could be my key fob cover and the battery. We changed the battery on 08/07/24 and it just stalled again today at a stop light on 08/08/24. This rules out the key and fob and cover so it must be the something with the transmission or engine. Either way, it becomes unsafe especially while it stalls while driving.
Nissan Kicks 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV8ML
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: At 54,000 miles on my car my car was shaking and not wanting to go past 20miles an hour. My check engine light came on. Safety was at risk, there was no warning that my car was having trouble. It was driving fine one minute and ttem all of a sudden check engine light came on. Feel that the cvt engines in Nissan are not safe
Nissan Kicks 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-25
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV8LL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: LANE DEPARTURE RANDOMLY DEPLOYS ALSO THE CARS COLLISION STOP HAPPENS OFTEN EVEN WITHOUT BEING NEAR OBJECTS AND/OR PEOPLE.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU2KL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The transmission on my 2019 Nissan Kicks shudders, jerks and experiences acceleration problems intermittently. This began more noticeably at the end of the 5 year factory warranty.
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-17
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU4KL
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Broken front springs. Yes, it is available for inspection. Possible front tire failure, due to rupture of tire by broken spring. Yes, confirmed by Nissan of Stratham NH. No, not at this time. No warning at all. Found broken spring on July 1, 2024. Inspected by Nissan of Stratham on July 8 2024.
Nissan Kicks 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-13
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV8ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Hello, this has happened multiple times within a year & a half of having the vehicle (bought in Jan 2023) where the Front Collision Warning will randomly go off during anytime of the day, even at night. I have also had all the side collision warnings just stay yellow in the screen while driving. Just recently when I was driving in the mountains of GA, I had everything go off & the "Forward Driving Aids Temporarily Disabled."
Nissan Kicks 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-13
- VIN: 3N1CP5CU5KL
- Components: Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness
- Summary: While driving on the hwy, my toddler was able to unclip his chest clip on carseat. I pulled over and obsereved that his chest clip does not securely latch every time that I buckle him in. It unlatches without pressing on the buttons that are supposed to unlatch the clip. It does this by pushing on the backside of the chest clip. I am unable to properly and safely restrain my toddler in his new carseat that I bought April of this year.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Kicks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Nissan Kicks.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Kicks 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
- Model: Nissan Kicks 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-18
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
- Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a steering column replacement, under recall number 22V-693. These vehicles will need to be reinspected for this recall.
- Model: Nissan Kicks 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-15
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.
- Consequence: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
- Model: Nissan Kicks 2018
- Report Received Date: 2019-09-12
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
- Model: Nissan Kicks 2019
- Report Received Date: 2019-09-12
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
Latest negative Nissan Kicks car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Kicks car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
My new Kicks is a great gas saver, averaging 39mpg. It handles even better than my Kona did at freeway speeds. It's not the fastest car, but it's definitely acceptable for the price. So far, I am very satisfied!
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Vehicle year: 2023
Your Nissan 2022 Kicks has been a great car so far! It has excellent gas mileage and runs so smoothly.
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Vehicle year: 2019
This car is the perfect solution to my driving concerns. My previous truck was difficult to park and reverse, but the Kicks makes it a breeze with its sensors, cameras, and parking aids. The dashboard is sleek and clean, without being too busy. The mileage is impressive, averaging about 34 mpg. Even driving up the Colorado hills is no problem, thanks to the hill assist feature. While I would have preferred window tinting and more storage space, these are minor issues that can be addressed later. The only real downside is that the front passenger seat is a bit too low for my liking. Overall, I would give the Kicks a solid rating of 4.5.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I've been a Nissan fan since 1979, owning various models such as the 210's, 510's, Sentras, Maximas, and now the 2022 Nissan Kicks. I must say, the Kicks is truly amazing! It offers a great ride, top-notch safety features, and is incredibly comfortable and quiet. Once again, I am thrilled with my decision to choose Nissan, and specifically the Nissan Kicks.
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Vehicle year: 2020
Great drive with amazing gas mileage! For the price you can not compare to it! Highly recommend this vehicle!
Are you having problems with your Nissan Kicks?
Amari Conn 2025-11-22
Vehicle year: 2018
There is a lot to love about the Kicks, but there are also some areas that could be improved. I purchased mine brand new with just 13 miles on it. My average mpg is 32, mostly from driving in town. The best mpg I achieved was on cruise control at 60 mph, where I got 44.5 mpg. Although the front end collision sensor can be problematic in the rain, the cameras and sensors are phenomenal. The stereo is also fantastic, even at its loudest, there is no distortion or rattling. I do wish that the touch-screen had GPS and that the front seats had lumbar support adjustment. When you fold the back seats down, they are about 2
Rico Stoltenberg 2025-11-06
Vehicle year: 2018
Hello! I wanted to share my experience with my 2018 Nissan Kicks that I purchased in March of 2019. Initially, I was interested in a Juke, but unfortunately, it was not available at the time. I checked with other local dealerships, but they also did not have any Jukes in stock. Eventually, I decided to go with the Kicks, and I must say, I am glad I did! The Gun Metallic and Monarch Orange color combination is what really sold me on this car. Although there were some radio issues when I first purchased it, I have not had any other problems with the vehicle. I make sure to keep up with the maintenance, and it has been running smoothly ever since. Recently, someone at the dealership approached me about trading it in, but I am not interested in parting with it unless I can find another one in a different year with the same color. I must say, I am very happy with the service I have received at Nissan Auto Centers. The service manager and the rest of the staff are true professionals, and I am a very satisfied customer.
Don Morissette 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2019
The car has been experiencing several issues such as the radio turning off and on, stopping on its own, transmission slipping in reverse on hills, and now a grinding noise when starting the vehicle. These issues are unacceptable for a brand new car and must be addressed immediately. As a concerned parent with a young child, I cannot risk my safety on the highway. It is imperative that these issues are resolved promptly and effectively.
Wellington Spinka 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2018
I recently purchased a Nissan Kicks after owning a Nissan Versa Note, but unfortunately, I have been experiencing some issues with the car. There is a high pitched screeching noise coming from the passenger side of the front of the car that has been getting worse over time. I have taken the car back to the dealership twice, but the issue has not been resolved. Additionally, the navigation system is not syncing with my phone (S9+), which is a feature I rely on as I travel frequently. Despite these issues, I am hopeful that Nissan will be able to address them soon. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Vaughn Leuschke 2025-08-12
Vehicle year: 2018
I recently purchased a Nissan Kicks and unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car. The radio stopped working and the BOSE speakers did not meet my expectations. Additionally, I encountered some problems with the Collision Alert system and the hood light. Despite checking everything, the issue persisted. I contacted the dealership and they picked up the car for repair, which took longer than expected. While I was provided with a loaner car, there was a hold placed on my credit card and I experienced some issues with the loaner car as well. After reading reviews, I regret not doing so prior to purchasing the car. I hope to resolve these issues with the dealership in a friendly and professional manner.