NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls and 78 owner complaints for the 2021 Nissan Kicks. Most complaints involve structure (24) and forward collision avoidance (15). The EPA rates it 33 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall.
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.
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.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“We have had several problems with our 2021 Nissan Kicks, all of which are safety concerns, and all of which have have occurred at well under 100,000 miles. We purchased the vehicle from a Nissan dealer in January of 2022. 1 - Rust is bubbling up from under the paint. I am told this is perforating rust that could easily spread to or originate from the frame of the vehicle. This could cause the entire structure to fail. Despite the 5 year, no mileage limitation warranty for perforating rust, Nissan has refused to comply with the warranty. At the executive complaint level, they have admitted that the warranty exists, but at the repair level, Nissan has repeatedly informed the Dealer that the vehicle is not covered by a rust warranty or that the warranty expired based on mileage. The person at the corporate complaint level refuses to speak with the dealer or affirm the coverage in writing. At the repair level, Nissan has offered a fix outside of warranty coverage (a patch) which does not provide the continuing coverage provided by a warranty repair (which requires replacement of the panel). I have spent countless hours taking the car in to have it looked at and on…”
“Immediately after turning car on and putting it on Drive gear, the collision light and traction light on dashboard came on and a message “Malfunction See Owner’s Manual” came on too. As I tried to get out of my parking garage it was little hard to accelerate. I turned my car off for a few seconds, the collision/traction engine light turned off, but check engine light turned on. I had battery checked by AAA who confirmed battery is still in good condition. Took vehicle to auto zone to scan and was notified about got code “P0101” Air filter is changed with every oil change, maintenance has been kept up as well.”
“The car won’t accelerate pass 40mph , ABS light will turn on , it completely stopped on the free way. I waited 5 minutes and the car started running. I d been doing this since march 2026. Got a diagnosis they thought it was a wheel bearings and sensor but the car didn’t accelerate again. And stopped working.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicks Auto (variable gear ratios), 4 cyl, 1.6 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 31 | 36 | 33 | $1,950 | 269 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
2 safety recalls as of Oct 28, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 78 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are structure (24), forward collision avoidance (15), electrical system (12). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2021 Nissan Kicks at 33 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (1 version rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2021 Nissan Kicks 4 out of 5 stars overall.