Which Years Of Used Nissan Kicks Are Most Reliable?
If you’re looking for a compact SUV with good fuel efficiency, you have dozens of models to choose from across different brands. From popular models like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Kia Sportage to relatively niche ones like the Jeep Compass, it’s hard not to be overwhelmed with choices. However, the Nissan Kicks is worth checking out if you want a value-driven SUV with a charming design and sufficient utility.
The Nissan Kicks was introduced as a replacement for the Nissan Juke in some markets, including the U.S., where the Juke was discontinued after the 2017 model year. However, it’s important to note that the Kicks and the Juke are quite different vehicles, each with unique styling and features.
With that said, the Nissan Kicks was able to carve its own niche for people who value efficiency and practicality. With an already affordable sale price, the Kicks is also a popular option for used car buyers. Today, we look at the current generation of this SUV and determine the most reliable Nissan Kicks year and the ones you should skip.
2018-Present Nissan Kicks
The Nissan’s Kicks replaces the quirky Juke in the growing subcompact crossover category. It’s a budget-friendly option for buyers of Sentra or Versa Note models but prefers the flexibility and styling of an SUV.
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Avoid: 2018 Nissan Kicks
At CoPilot, we recommend people skip first production year models since they tend to be untested on a large scale, and many problems may only become apparent once customers drive the model in real-world conditions. That’s the case with the 2018 Nissan Kicks.
The consumer advocacy website CarComplaints.com has registered over 90 complaints and a single recall for the 2018 Nissan Kicks. Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has documented around 54 complaints about this model, with a significant number focusing on issues regarding the electrical systems and the forward collision avoidance feature.
Multiple reports indicate the vehicle struggled with intermittent electrical failures, impacting the Kicks’ sensor systems. Worried owners have reported that sensor and traction control warning lights on the dashboard were activated. In some cases, the vehicle abruptly shuts down while being driven at various speeds. This is a significant safety concern, making it a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a used Nissan Kicks.
Avoid: 2019 Nissan Kicks
Unfortunately, the succeeding Nissan Kicks model didn’t improve on the issues of the debut year but somehow made it worse. The 2019 Nissan Kicks racked up about 106 complaints and one recall, as per CarComplaints. On the other hand, NHTSA listed 64 complaints for this model, and again, the prominent gripe people have is the dreaded electrical issues and the forward collision avoidance system.
One driver shared their experience that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power and stalled, and got restarted as if nothing had happened. They added this happened on eight separate occasions, ending with the car being driven or towed. Several reports also complained about how the electrical failures messed with the forward collision avoidance and service brakes.
If you hate dealing with electrical issues, this is undoubtedly not your most reliable Nissan Kicks year.
Buy: 2020 Nissan Kicks
In the 2020 model year, the Nissan Kicks saw several enhancements compared to its previous models. The most notable improvement was with its standard features, as the 2020 Kicks came equipped with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite across all trims. Furthermore, the 2020 Kicks also introduced standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, which is excellent if you prefer more modern infotainment features.
However, despite these improvements, the 2020 Kicks was not without its fair share of issues. Some owners reported problems with the electrical system, albeit at a less prevalent rate than the earlier models. Still, several owners reported the dreaded forward collision light just coming on for no reason.
With that said, the 2020 iteration is the most reliable Nissan Kicks year, with excellent cargo space and fuel economy at 32 combined mpg.
Buy: 2021 Nissan Kicks
The 2021 Nissan Kicks appears to have reached a level of refinement and reliability that stands out in its product cycle. This model year brought about several updates that improved the vehicle’s overall performance and dependability. For starters, the 2021 Kicks came equipped with an enhanced version of the Nissan 360 suite, featuring additional driver-assistance technologies.
The 2021 model year of the Kicks also received fewer reported issues, suggesting that Nissan successfully addressed some of the previously common complaints in the previous years, including those about the electrical system. The NHTSA collected 43 complaints for the 2021 Kicks, some of which were about the forward collision avoidance sensors. Also, there were some reports of paint chipping, but we don’t think they’re too widespread to be a concern.
Overall, the 2021 Nissan Kicks is a compelling option for buyers seeking a balance of affordability, features, and dependability – deserving to be called the most reliable Nissan Kicks year.
THE NISSAN KICKS YEARS TO AVOID
If you want this vehicle, it’s critical to purchase the best. You might wonder - what are the Nissan Kicks years to avoid on the market today?
Buy: 2022 Nissan Kicks
If you don’t mind buying a practically brand-new SUV, the 2022 Nissan Kicks is a solid choice. For starters, the Kicks sports a stylish and modern exterior design and a well-designed, comfortable interior that offers above-average cargo space. It comes with a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that’s been praised for its fuel efficiency but might be underpowered if you’re looking for something more potent.
The 2002 Nissan Kicks, a relatively recent model, has a reasonably clean record with minimal complaints and no official recalls. A quick glance at its NHTSA page confirms this, showcasing little to no complaints regarding this vehicle. Nonetheless, there are a handful of concerns raised by owners, particularly regarding the forward collision avoidance feature. Some drivers reported that this system led to unexpected, abrupt stops in their vehicles.
In addition, a few owners also complained about the wonky steering, which caused them to lose control of the vehicle. This aligns with many critic reviews stating that the steering lacked feedback.
The above issues only received a few complaints, but that could change in a few years or so.
ARE NISSANS RELIABLE?
Are Nissans reliable? Can their safety ratings be trusted? And will they last you for many miles before breaking down?
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