2021 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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Common 2021 Nissan Kicks problems
The Nissan Kicks, a compact SUV designed for urban environments, is known for its fuel efficiency and extensive interior and exterior options. However, some model years have been associated with specific problems based on owner complaints. This article focuses on the 2021 Nissan Kicks, which is considered a good year for the model, but still has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of.
- Sudden Braking: Some 2021 Nissan Kicks owners have reported instances of sudden braking, which can be alarming and potentially dangerous. This issue could be caused by various factors, such as malfunctioning front collision sensors, dirt or condensation on the sensors, or misaligned sensors. If you experience this problem, it is essential to have your vehicle inspected by a professional to identify and address the root cause.
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Light Issues: Several 2021 Nissan Kicks owners have reported that the AEB warning light randomly illuminates on the dashboard, often for no apparent reason. This issue could be caused by dirt or condensation on the front sensors, a bad or misaligned sensor, or other possible problems. If you encounter this problem, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected and repaired to ensure the safety system functions correctly.
- Stalling: Some 2021 Nissan Kicks owners have reported instances of the vehicle stalling, particularly when coming to a stop. This issue could be caused by wrong Engine Control Module (ECM) calibration or a bad mass air flow sensor, among other possibilities. If your Kicks stalls, it is essential to have it inspected and repaired by a professional to ensure safe operation.
- CVT Transmission Concerns: While the 2021 Nissan Kicks has received fewer complaints about the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) than earlier model years, there are still concerns about its longevity and potential for expensive repairs if it fails. If you are buying a used 2021 Nissan Kicks, it may be worth considering an extended powertrain warranty to cover the cost of transmission replacement if needed.
- Interior Quality: Some owners have noted that the interior fabric and plastic in the 2021 Nissan Kicks are not of the highest quality, which may affect the overall perception of value and durability.
In summary, the 2021 Nissan Kicks is generally a reliable and fuel-efficient compact SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address these problems before they become significant safety concerns or lead to expensive repairs.
Does the 2021 Nissan Kicks have transmission problems?
2021 Nissan Kicks Transmission Problems
One of the most common signs is when your transmission shifts gears but the result of those shifts are delayed. Strange smells are a sign your transmission fluid is burning inside your parts.
Is there a problem with Nissan Kicks?
Common Issues with the Nissan Kicks
Clicking sounds from the instrument cluster. Front collision sensor failure. Vehicle shuts off while moving. Lack of car acceleration.
Are there any recalls on 2021 Nissan Kicks?
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.
What is the weakness of the Nissan Kicks?
The Nissan Kicks platform has been indirectly inspired by Logan's platform of 2006-07. This is a very old platform for a 2019 car. NVH levels and hardening of the clutch are obvious issues here.
2021 Nissan Kicks car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Kicks problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Nissan Kicks vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Nissan Kicks
The NHTSA has received 48 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Nissan Kicks. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Nissan Kicks vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- 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
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
- 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."
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV8ML
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact rented a 2021 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed in heavy traffic, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. After coming to a complete stop and shifting into park, the contact became aware that the transmission had seized, and the gear selector was unable to shift back into drive. Upon having the vehicle towed, the tow company was only able to shift the gear selector into reverse. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the rental company's service center for repair; as a result, the diagnosis of the failure was unknown to the contact. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 54,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-02
- VIN: 3N1CP5CVXML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While driving straight and I have a green light if the traffic in the left turn lane stops for on coming traffic to clear my vehicle brakes as if the car in the other lane is in front of me not to the side of me. I am afraid I will get rear ended one of these times from my vehicle slamming on the brakes when there is no reason to do so. This has been happening since I bought the vehicle, since my previous vehicle didn't have these new features being 20 years old I didn't know what to think at first. But it has been a year now and it's not me, there is something wrong that could end up being deadly. I have only noticed it happening when the vehicle in the left turn lane stops and I am in the next lane going straight. I have an appointment at the dealership next week but the service advisor acted like he had never heard of this issue when I see it has been well documented on other Nissan models and model years.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-27
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV9ML
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When I start my car it says collusion warning and skid sliding warning. It don't happen every time but it does happen randomly and beeps while I'm driving the entire time. Happens daily when it's cold like winter, but not as much thru warm weather like spring summer. I've never had a collusion in the 1 1/2 I've had my car while being the only owner!
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-18
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: THE VDC WARNING CAME ON AGAIN GOING NORTH WITH NO REASON WHY DEALER CANNOT FIGURE OUT. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS WARNINGS THAT NO WRECK HAPPENED YOU NEED TO HAVE THESE AUTOS RECALLED. THIS IS DANGEROUS. WHY DON'T YOU RECALL THESE AUTOS AND HAVE NISSAN CORRECT THE PROBLEM.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV9ML
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My vehicle was stopped got rear ended going 55mph. My car was totaled. The airbags did not deploy.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-02
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: THE VDC SYSTEM IS MALFUNCTION REPORTING AN ERROR WHEN TRAVELING EAST IN THE EVENING SHOWS A COLLISION WHICH NOTHING HAPPENED
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-27
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: THE WARNING OF THE VDC COMES ON WARNING THAT A ACIDENT HAS HAPPENED THE CAMERA NEEDS TO BE REDESINED FALSE ACCIDENT WARNINGS
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV5ML
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Driving approximately 40mph with no one in front, sides, rear and car suddenly braked without warning for no reason. Glad no car behind could have caused accident.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-19
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: THE VDC SYSTEM COMES ON TO ALERT OF ACCIDENT WHEN IT SHOULD NOT TOOK TO DEALER TWICE AND THEY ADVISE NOTHING WRONG WITH IT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-13
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The VDC system warnings come on have been to the dealer twice not been resolved.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV9ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Blistering on mirrors, front grille, side windows, Nissan emblem in back, black trim in hatch area, inside the back lightning, entire back plate in hatch area, huge holes in bottom, smell burning smell when driving.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-13
- VIN: 3N1CP5DV0ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When driving early in the morning or late at night, front impact sensor and front distance sensor lights flash on the dash display for between 2-5 minutes. Vehicle has been to the dealership for this exact issue 3 times previously, have a 4th visit scheduled this coming week.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-08
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV7ML
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: While I’m driving, usually while I’m on the freeway, my 2021 Nissan Kicks will think I’m about to get into a head on collision and try to brake for me. I get warnings that come onto my dash and my emergency brake light will come on. This happens about 2-3 times a week and seems to be happening more frequently. My car is still under warranty and I’ve taken it into the dealership three times now and they can’t seem to find an issue.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-30
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV9ML
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Was driving on the interstate when all of the sudden any time I would hit the accelerator it would start to brake. I went from going 60 to 45 and realized I had to pull over and was able luckily to get to a median to call AAA. Once i got to the median my battery and oil change light appeared and AC stopped working. I attempted to turn my car off and it would just automatically restart. I did that three times and on the third time the lights turned off and ac was back blowing cold but still couldn’t move my vehicle. AAA then towed it to their facility and said it was transmission issues and he had never seen something like it before since no sensors were notified to the issue. It’s now being towed from the AAA center and is being taken to the dealership closest for repairs. I’m still waiting to hear back from Maus Nissan about my car and where to go from here. It’s very troubling to be traveling at such a fast speed to nothing at all and luckily I was able to pull over to safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV1ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Sometimes, the blind spot warning doesn't work. I need to re-start the car to make it works. After I filling gas, the car can't move for 7 seconds even though the car is accelerated and the clock that measures the rotation go up to 4 - 4.5 and when it starts moving, this clock comes to 2. Also after a stop, the car doesn't move , doesn't accelerate, it has to wait for 7 seconds and starts moving slow for more few seconds. this problem was shown more than 10 times. One time, I accelerated a lot, and the car started jumping like a "crazy horse" . The battery was dead twice. it was recharged and works fine.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-13
- VIN: 3N1CP5DVXML
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the brake warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, and the vehicle made an unintended stop. The vehicle then continued to operate normally. An appointment was scheduled for the vehicle to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was contacted and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 38,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-19
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV8ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle not drivable will not shift gears
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-19
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV7ML
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle will not accelerate beyond 35 MP H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3N1CP5BV5ML
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, she pulled over and put the vehicle in park. Once the vehicle was parked, it continued to roll forward. The vehicle hit a concrete light pole in the parking lot and damaged the driver's side front fender and headlights. No airbags deployed. There were no warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel which contact was aware of. There was a police report filed. The contact drove the vehicle safely home; then towed it to the dealer the following day. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 9,000.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-15
- VIN: 3n1cp5dv3ml
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Brand new vehicle purchased on 12/28/21. Forward Collision Warning System - This system has activated twice when there were no other vehicles near mine. Then on 3/15 returning home from an out of town trip it appears that it activated again with no other vehicles within distance and then my vehicle completely shut down and every light on my dash came on and a malfunction warning for it. The vehicle was towed back to the dealership where I bought it. The dealership is also where I am employed. The diagnostic has been completed and it threw 6 codes. Safety could be impacted in several ways. The vehicle started to slow and there was no power to accelerate. The car could have cut off in the middle of the highway broke down also putting other vehicles in danger of hitting the car and causing injuries and vehicle damage. I was driving alone at midnight when this occurred. If I did not have AAA I would have had to walk miles alone to the nearest exit possibly putting myself in danger. If this function would have failed when it was needed accidents and injuries would occur.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV7ML
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2021Nissan Kicks[XXX]Paint Chipping -Fleet Unit - Paint chipping above upper crease of windshield of vehicle, some rusting present. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV5ML
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TUCL1082021Nissan Kicks[XXX]Paint Chipping -Fleet Unit - Paint chipping above upper crease of windshield of vehicle, some rusting present. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-21
- VIN: 3N1CP5CV8ML
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2021Nissan Kicks[XXX]Paint Chipping -Fleet Unit - Paint chipping above upper crease of windshield of vehicle, some rusting present. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2021 Nissan Kicks recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Nissan Kicks.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2021 Nissan Kicks car reviews
Positive 2021 Nissan Kicks car reviews
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The Nissan Kicks is a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for a subcompact SUV. It's practical, economical, and beautiful, with top-notch cargo space and MPG. Not only is it two thousand dollars cheaper than its competitors, the HR-V and C-HR, but it's also equipped with superior technology and safety features. While some people may complain about its size and acceleration, it's important to remember that a subcompact SUV is designed to be smaller. If you're looking for a larger vehicle with great acceleration, you should consider a large SUV or a sports car. Overall, the Kicks is a reliable, nimble, and stylish crossover that should be at the top of your list when shopping for a subcompact SUV.
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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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Love it, love it, love it. Great gas mileage, hugs the curves strongly. With all the beeps and buzzers, you'll feel safe.
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I'm so glad to hear that you love your new car!
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Small but large. Perfect in every way
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Nissan Kicks problems:
2021 Nissan Kicks Reliability | Nissan Kicks Forum
Feb 7, 2021 ... It is not a defect. The cvt is in effect a computer simulation. So you will in time play with the pedal to learn how to make it do what to do.
Considering a Nissan Kicks but have heard some bad reviews : r ...
Jun 3, 2023 ... My question is are there any glaring mechanical issues with the car, or less obvious things that will make it a mistake to buy?
2021 Nissan Kicks Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Feb 14, 2024 ... Common problems found on the 2021 Nissan Kicks include delayed gear changes, chipping paint, along with some check engine lights. Overall, these ...
2021 Nissan Kicks Problems, Issues & Complaints - Is Your Car A ...
Nov 15, 2023 ... NHTSA complaints about the 2021 Nissan Kicks have escalated since we first reviewed them early in 2022. Consumers are complaining about the ...
2021 Nissan Kicks Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Nissan Kicks? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Nissan Kicks
Are you having problems with your 2021 Nissan Kicks?
Brook Hessel 2024-11-14
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.
Jennings Dietrich 2024-11-08
Uncomfortable, small gas tank (prepare to always fill up twice a week), just a crap car. Save your money.
Lisandro Walsh 2024-08-07
This car has several areas that could be improved. The acceleration is slow, especially on the highway, and the front lights are not up to standard. Additionally, the lane changing signal can be distracting and the constant beeping when locking the car is unnecessary. Overall, there is room for improvement in this car.
Al Anderson 2024-07-12
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that I noticed a few things about your car that you might want to keep in mind. Firstly, it's really comfortable! However, you might find that the gas tank is a bit small, so you may need to fill up twice a week depending on how much you drive. Additionally, the cup holders in the front are a bit low down, and the center console has an odd shape. Just thought I'd give you a heads up! Let me know if you have any questions.
Jasper Medhurst 2024-07-03
Cute car but I've been having some issues. The doors require a bit of force to shut properly and the light duty hitch and bike rack that worked perfectly on my 2017 Sentra is causing some trouble with the Kicks. It sinks down too much and I can't clear the slight ramp out of my school parking lot without risking scraping the bottom of the rack. Additionally, the collision assist feature seems to come on randomly even when there isn't a vehicle, human or animal anywhere to be found. Overall, I had higher expectations from Nissan.