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: 2020
I hope you're enjoying your Kicks! It's great to hear that you're happy with the gas mileage and the SUV-like feel without it being too big.
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Vehicle year: 2023
This small SUV is a great economical car option. While it may not have as much power as some other SUVs in its class, it still provides a comfortable ride. The rear lift gate is manual, which may take some getting used to, but it's a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the car does not come with onboard Nav, but you can easily connect your cell phone to use Google Maps. While there are a few areas for improvement, such as the lack of front audible parking sensing and low audio for collision warning, overall this car is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable option.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased my 2018 Nissan Kicks in September of that year and have only put a few thousand miles on it. Unfortunately, I had to take it in for service shortly after purchasing it and was disappointed to find out that all they did was reset the computer. I also received multiple emails from the dealership after my visit, which was frustrating. Now, I am experiencing issues with the key ignition system and have to spend a full Saturday at the dealership to troubleshoot the problem. Despite these issues, I do appreciate the car's great mileage, zippy ride, and good stereo. However, I would recommend finding a dealership with better service reps. I have had some negative experiences with Nissani Brothers in Culver City, California. Although I like the car, I wouldn't purchase it again due to the lack of a reputable dealer near me.
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Vehicle year: 2022
My sin replaced my 2019 Sentra with 105k with my Kicks. It took ne 3 months to get mine and I love the black over white color. I've driven it out of town with the shortest trip being 500 miles. I really enjoy my little truck once I got the hang of correctly using the sport mode. I do have two complaints, the seats can become uncomfortable on long rides and the headlights could be brighter. However, overall I am extremely pleased with my Kicks!
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Vehicle year: 2018
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that my 2018 Kicks had a spot on the left front side panel last year, but not on the right side. I brought it to the dealer in Montreal and the mechanic took some pictures. He suggested that it might be the soap or cloth I'm using, but I assured him that I use a cloth specifically for my car and I go to a hand wash since I'm scared to go to the car wash. When I went to put on my summer tires, I spoke with the service manager and he promised to call me back after taking a look at the pictures. I also mentioned to him that I was curious why the spot was only on that side and not on the rest of the body. I'm still waiting for his call, but I'm hopeful that we can get this resolved soon. Thank you for your time and have a great day!
Are you having problems with your Nissan Kicks?
Payton Bahringer 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2023
I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned having a 2022 kick, but you traded your 2020 Murano for it. It sounds like you're not too happy with your decision, especially since the car doesn't perform well in snow and ice. You even mentioned that you wish you had kept your Murano! I can definitely understand how frustrating that must be.
Giovani Abernathy 2024-11-21
Vehicle year: 2019
I bought a Juke in 2011 and absolutely love everything about it. When Nissan announced that they were discontinuing the Juke, I was heartbroken. Then they announced the Kick, and I thought, 'hey, it's the 'new' Juke.' Unfortunately, that was not to be. However, there are a lot of good things about the Kick. I really like the aesthetics of the design, and it is very reasonably priced. It also has good gas mileage and decent cargo space for a car of this size. Additionally, it has a number of nice bells-and-whistles that aren't ridiculously expensive. That being said, I was disappointed to find out that the Kick doesn't have an optional AWD package. While it may not be necessary for those living in warmer climates, for those of us who experience snow, ice, and heavy rains, AWD is essential. It is the most important reason I looked at crossovers to begin with. It's a shame that Nissan didn't include this option, as it may turn away 40-50% of the potential market for a vehicle of this kind. Another issue I have with the Kick is that it is significantly underpowered compared to the Juke. This is also a big issue for me, as I got 30+ mpg in stop and go DC driving for 8 years with my 188hp 1.6 litre turbo. The slightly anemic Kick drivetrain just doesn't provide the same performance on the road.
Brook Hessel 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2021
I'm currently renting one of these cars and was surprised by the price. I had expected it to be around 14k, but it turned out to be more expensive. While it may not be the most comfortable car, it does have some positive features such as good fuel efficiency and a decent amount of cabin space. However, there are some areas that could be improved, such as the car pulling to the left and the wind noise on the highway. Overall, I think there is room for improvement, but it's not all bad.
Giovanni Schmitt 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 2019
When I first saw the car, I was in awe. After having it for two weeks, I am noticing things that concern me. The gas mileage is okay since I drive 200 miles a day, so I average a fill-up every three days. The seats are comfortable, and it has more room than my Yaris. However, there are a few issues. The seatbelt doesn't chime to let you know when you have it on, and there is no icon to indicate when the car is warming up. Unless I am not looking in the right spots, I have yet to see or hear them. Additionally, you can lock the door with the car being on, which is really bad since I have a 4-year-old. It beeps when you are more than 100 feet away from another car because it thinks you are going to crash. Overall, there are some pros and cons, but we will see how it goes.
Hoyt Daugherty 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 2019
It seems like you could benefit from a more efficient heater!