2021 Nissan Kicks
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 84 |
| 2019 | 134 |
| 2020 | 95 |
| 2021 | 76 |
| 2022 | 22 |
| 2023 | 33 |
| 2024 | 34 |
| 2025 | 37 |
| 2026 | 7 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
32% of complaints: structure — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing body.
24% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 18 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing warnings and automatic emergency braking.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
While traveling on a hwy with my 2021 Nissan Kicks, me and my wife were sandwiched. A black SUV suddenly stopped in front of us causing us to rear end them going approximately 50-60 mph then we were rear ended.
NHTSA ODI report, 20211202
Also filed under AIR BAGS and SEATS
14% of complaints: electrical system — 11 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing integrated trailer brake control.
CRASH12% of complaints: power train — 9 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was a loud boom coming from the engine compartment with several unknown warning lights illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251107
I had a noise and highway vibration in my 2021 Nissan Kicks. Brought it to the dealer and was told the front axle nut was loose. They said it is a common issue.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260814
Also filed under STEERING
The CVT transmission is slipping and losing acceleration while driving, overheating and smelling really bad like burnt rubber, the oil is black and smells burnt, its currently at 52,100 miles and I sent it up to Chuck Colvin Nissan and they did not...
NHTSA ODI report, 20260725
11% of complaints: engine — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
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.
Campaign 22V693000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
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.
Campaign 23V496000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Nissan Kicks — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V693000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V496000 (steering) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Nissan Kicks reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Nissan Kicks is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Nissan Kicks?
The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Kicks have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.