Nissan Kicks Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls β NHTSA Data
Comparing used Nissan Kicks options? We analyzed 7 model years (2018β2024) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact Nissan Kicks you plan to buy.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Nissan Kicks has 449 owner complaints and 6 safety recalls across model years 2018β2024. The most reported issue area is FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE. 2019 drew the most complaints; 2022 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Nissan
- Model
- Kicks
- Model years analyzed
- 2018β2024 (7 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 449
- Safety recall campaigns
- 6
- Crash-related complaints
- 24
- Fire-related complaints
- 0
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2019 (130 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2022 (22 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Reliability signal
- Poor
Nissan Kicks: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used β lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record β lower risk starting points.
β NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
PoorThe NISSAN KICKS has 449 NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls on record. 24 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 449 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 6 federal recall campaigns
- 24 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
π NHTSA Safety Recalls
6 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2018β2024. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
π§ Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 449 NHTSA complaints.
π NHTSA Complaint Reports
449 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
Someone was on a handheld scooter on the sidewalk and when reaching the corner, turned right abruptly still remaining on the sidewalk. My car slammed on the brakes believing this person was entering the street or was already in the street? The vehicle behind me swerved out of the way because it was going to hit me. This almost caused me to create an accident instead of attempting to avoid one.
The passenger door of the vehicle is stuck and unable to open. It is currently in the body shop as they will need to cut into the door to fix the issue. It has gotten stuck previously but has been able to be opened, this time it will not open know matter how much effort is put in. I believe this is a major safety issue, as you will not be able to get out if an accident or incident occurs
Vehicle will not go forward when accelerating, the vehicle does go in reverse. It is available for inspection at Nissan Vacaville. It is a safety risk as I was driving, it stalled in turning lane on street and wouldn't go. I had to have it put in neutral so I could get it to a safe location so I could have it towed to my residence. I have a service report saying that there's a faulty piece in the transmission by Nissan In Vacaville. No indication that there were any issues to the vehicle when I took it for service on Saturday 2/28/26. No lights came on the car or anything that would warrant an issue.
Description of the Problem On August 28, 2025, I had my vehicle serviced at Nissan of Dearborn due to a transmission malfunction. After the service was completed, I noticed the front end was pulling to the right, as time progress I became concerned. I took the vehicle to an independent service center for a front-end alignment. During the inspection, I was informed that the control arms were loose and needed to be replaced. Responses to Required Questions What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The transmission initially malfunctioned, and later the front suspension/control arms were found to be loose after the transmission was replaced. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Loose control arms and steering misalignment significantly compromised vehicle stability, creating a risk of loss of control while driving, which could lead to an accident. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the issue with the control arms was confirmed by an independent service center during the alignment inspection. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Nissan Corporate or other authorities, but it is available for inspection. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There were no warning lamps or messages prior to the transmission malfunction. The pulling to the right began immediately after the dealership service on August 28, 2025. Safety Concern I purchased this vehicle, August 22, 2024, but have not owned it long enough to expect major component failures. This situation has created a serious safety risk, and I am requesting Nissan Corporate to investigate this matter urgently and provide a resolution, including repair or reimbursement.
I AM INTRIGUED ABOUT THE TUBES UNDER THE SEATS. WHY AREN'T THEY UNDER THE CAR NOT UNDER THE SEATS
I was driving, slowed down to stop at a red light. As I proceeded to stop the car made a noise like something was in front of me as I was driving too close. I made a grinding noise and would not go forward as I proceeded to go. I was in the street, had to put on emergency flasher so no one would hit me from the rear. Once traffic cleared I was able drive the car in reverse to a safe location. I called AAA road side assistance had the vehicle tolled back to my daughter house, called the dealership to retrieve warranty document so I can take it to a Nissan dealership to have it inspected. There were no warning signs, lamps, or message from the screen to show there was a problem. No warning signs prior to the vehicle malfunctioning.
The contact's daughter owns a 2022 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving approximately 70 MPH, the hood inadvertently flew open, shattering the windshield. The vehicle was steered over to the side of the road and a rope was used to securely close the hood. The vehicle was then taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that unknown parts needed to be replaced. The contact was informed to contact the Insurance Company for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact believed that the failure was associated with an unknown recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle decelerated while the accelerator pedal was being depressed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer; where it was diagnosed; however, the failure was not replicated. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed by the same local dealer and remained with the dealer for further diagnostic tests. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000. The VIN was not available.
The forward collision sensor and system malfunctioned such that it would cause the car to drive erratically. The car would swerve on its own and would need driver inputs to get it back on course. It would also tend to make the car slow down and stop in the middle of the road. This system malfunction occurred just after the car reached the 36000 mileage mark. An inspection of the cover for the forward collision sensor covered revealed it to be attached to car on only one side. The cover is made out of plastic and the side that is free was bent over and no longer square with the direction of travel.
I bought the car used and had no issues within the first three months. I have only had the car for four months now. The automatic emergency braking warning light started to randomly flash while driving and would come on and off. I took the car into the dealership and they told me I had codes appearing that led them to look at my battery first. They said my battery was bad and replaced that. Iβve had the car for about a week now and now when I drive it the car randomly activates the AEB so when Iβm driving it will just apply the breaks with no warning and when there is no reason to. This causes me to become startled and jolt while driving and when Iβm going at higher speeds it is extremely dangerous to the drivers around me who donβt understand whatβs going on. I have no warning when itβs going to happen and it could lead to an accident. I have read countless other stories online of people with Nissan Kicks who are experiencing the same issue.
Driving down the highway when the car shut down in the middle of the freeway. I was able to get to the shoulder before the vehicle completely shut down and would not restart. I had it towed to a shop and upon further investigation the motor had blown up. One of the pistons only had 20% pressure. The car doesn't even have 70k miles on it and the motor is completely gone in it.
The hood flew open unexpectedly while driving on the highway causing significant damage. No lights or indicators appeared on dashboard. Car has 9,000 miles and Nissan is currently doing an investigation with inspection on car June 20, 2024.
I bought a brand new Kicks Sport S that was delivered to me with 231 miles on it. It ran great but when driving on the Interstate when a slight crosswind kicked up the vehicle steering was almost unmanageable. It was difficult keeping the vehicle on the road below the posted speed with only 5 -10 mile winds. Tire inflation was proper and everything worked great until there was even the slightest wind. I traded the car in at under 4000 miles due to this fact since it was not safe to drive and took a $10,000 loss only months after purchase and paid in full at the time of purchase. This is the biggest scam for a vehicle and should not be on the road they are dangerous and sorry but after losing almost a year's income on this vehicle I wish I had never seen one of them much less bought one. Very unsafe people will end up dying buying this vehicle. I would not put my children or grandkids in this car if there was any wind whatsoever nor would i ever ride in one with any wind ever again.
While inflating the tires up to the recommended pressure, due to the low temperatures overnight, I noticed that the right front rotor had multiple cracks running on the bridges between the holes on the brake rotors. There where no indications other than the Low Tire Pressure warning indicator. I have a picture of this on the Vehicle. Knowing this could lead to a brake failure and or crash!
The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was unable to pull to the side of the road. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
Not sure what causes this failure in the Kicks but if there is any wind at all when driving over 45 mph and/or traveling on a Highway, Interstate the steering becomes super sloppy and the car is difficult to control and maintain lanes in moderate wind conditions. You have to grip the steering wheel hard and fight to maintain your lane in the wind or pull off until the wind is under 10 mph. It is a serious hazard to occupants and anyone else on the road. All systems were in line and the vehicle only had between 800 - 1000 miles on it, tire pressure was good and all systems were good - the kicks should not be driven in any weather-related conditions. It was so bad I took a $10k loss on the vehicle with under 6000 miles and traded it in within less than 6 months of purchase. I am on a fixed income so this was a huge expense and not an easy choice to lose that kind of money but it was better than the alternative and trying to drive it in the wind. Please investigate the Kicks before someone dies from this problem. Of note I have a friend with a Versa that looks a lot like the Kicks that has the same problem - her solution if there is any wind she stays home and does not drive.
The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle independently came to an abrupt stop, with the brake warning light flashing on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the roadway was clear, and there were no objects in the path of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, and it was acknowledged by the dealer that they were aware of the failure; however, the mechanic could not determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 10,300.
Purchased vehicle new and the dealership delivered it to the house the mileage was under 300. Drove the car approximately 100 miles and while driving on the Interstate on the return trip there was a slight wind under 10 mph. The vehicle was difficult to control as the slightest wind causes the vehicle steering to drift over and the steering is so temperamental that the slightest correction can make you overcorrect. Driving in windy conditions is very difficult and you have to hold the steering wheel tightly to keep the vehicle from leaving the roadway. Passing trucks also cause the vehicle steering to be a problem. I do not know if it is due to vehicle weight, the design of the body, or the steering system. I have a friend with a Versa that is almost identical to my car and she experiences the same problem with her steering in the wind - her solution is she never drives if there is the slightest wind. I wish I had not purchased the vehicle unfortunately it had already been a week or two since purchase when I drove it more than a mile from my home. It now has almost 5000 miles on it and with the recent storms and 20 mph winds, it is not safe to operate on any highway or interstate due to the steering issue. The car was bought outright from the dealership
The contact owns a 2022 Nisan Kicks. The contact stated that the parking assist would alarm the driver that they were coming close to something or someone. When the power assist was activated, the vehicle would suddenly stop as if the vehicle was about to crash into an object or a person. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal grinding noise coming from underneath the driverβs and passengerβs side front-end. The contact also stated that while in reverse or on an incline, the vehicle was making a popping sound underneath the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who was unable to identify the cause of the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired and the failure persisted. The manufacturer had been made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000.
The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the steering wheel turned all the way to the left independently. The contact stated that upon steering, the steering wheel veered to the right and he lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle veered to the right and crashed into a concrete barrier. The air bags deployed. The contact was transported to the hospital with the assistance of the emergency units. The contact sustained a fractured back and had surgery. The contact also sustained pain in the lower back and was currently hospitalized. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact did not recall whether the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 300.
Showing 20 of 449 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact Nissan Kicks
These pages show model-year patterns across 7years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
π Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is β but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Nissan Kicks has 449 complaints on record across 7 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Nissan Kicks has 6 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 24 of the Nissan Kicks's 449 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions β a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable β simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Nissan Kicks vehicles on the road β not any specific car. Two Nissan Kicks vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage β NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Nissan Kicks has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
Buyers Also Compare
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π Check a Nissan Kicks by State
Title-branding rules, flood-damage exposure, and salvage laws vary by state. Run a free VIN check or explore state-specific vehicle history guidance before buying a used Nissan Kicks.