Last updated: 2026-03-04

2025 Nissan Kicks Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2025 Nissan Kicks scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 24 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2025 is the last model year of the First generation (P15).
Recalls
3
Complaints
24
Complaint Rate
2.3
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
N/A
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
3 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2025 is the last model year of the First generation (P15).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 4 years after the last refresh (2021).
- 1st generation Kicks (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
First generation (P15)
Should You Buy the 2025 Nissan Kicks?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks scores 78/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2025 is the last model year of the First generation (P15).
With 24 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (4). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2026 Nissan Kicks. See also the 2024 Nissan Kicks for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- Well-established generation
- Only 24 complaints reported
Cons
- Moderate recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (4 complaints)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER: That the 2025 Nissan Kicks frequently experiences issues with windshield... (3 complaints)
Compare 2025 Nissan Kicks With
2025 Audi Q3
Score: 75/100
2025 BMW X1
Score: 73/100
2025 Porsche Macan
Score: 65/100
2025 Volvo XC60
Score: 76/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- WHEELS (3)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (3)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (3)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)
- VISIBILITY (1)
- STEERING (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- AIR BAGS (1)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- SUSPENSION (1)
- ENGINE (1)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has 3 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.3
per 10k soldSegment avg: 4.1
Safety Incidents
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
1
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2025 Nissan Kicks Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Nissan Kicks. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Kicks vehicles. The "Shift-to-Park" warning may not activate as intended when the vehicle is shut off and still in a gear other than "Park." As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
When the vehicle is not in "Park" and the ignition is shut off, the vehicle could move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a vehicle rollaway and crash.
Remedy
Dealers will reconfigure the body control module (BCM) to activate the "Shift-to-Park" warning, free of charge. Some owner notification letters were mailed January 29, 2025. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated, May 7, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA42.
EQUIPMENT
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Kicks vehicles. The certification label may have been printed with the incorrect Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) values, which can result in the vehicle being overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification." Additionally, certain 2025 Nissan Kicks SR trim level vehicles equipped with an optional 19-inch wheel package may have a certification label that states an incorrect wheel size. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
An overloaded vehicle can increase the risk of a crash. Vehicles with incorrect wheel and tire information may lead to tires that are inflated improperly, which can also increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install new labels, free of charge. Additionally, dealers will mail replacement labels to owners. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD136 and PMA47.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Frontier and Kicks vehicles. The center information display unit may display a blank screen when shifted into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview image that does not display can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the software on the vehicle’s center information display, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 10, 2025. The manufacturer numbers for this recall are PD152 and PMA48.
2025 Nissan Kicks NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.8%
Safety Technologies
Nissan Kicks Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2025 Nissan Kicks Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-Purchase Car Inspection | $183 – $269 |
| Electrical System Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Air Bag Clockspring Replacement | $395 – $458 |
| Air Bag Control Module Replacement | $751 – $871 |
| Alternator Replacement | $1,132 – $1,273 |
| Ignition Switch Replacement | $187 – $232 |
| Mass Airflow Sensor Replacement | $378 – $400 |
| Door Mirror Replacement | $491 – $525 |
| Brake Pad Replacement | $315 – $372 |
| Transmission Fluid Change | $149 – $177 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
When Buying a Used 2025 Nissan Kicks
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test infotainment system for black screens or malfunctions
- Inspect windshield for cracks and check for leaks after rain
- Check lug nuts for tightness and inspect wheels for shuddering
- Verify back-up camera functionality, especially at night
- Ensure fuel filler door locks when car doors are locked
- Confirm presence of spare tire or emergency repair kit
Check Any 2025 Nissan Kicks's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2025 Kicks in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Nissan Kicks with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2025 Nissan Kicks Common Problems by Component
24 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2025 Nissan Kicks frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly the infotainment and instrument panels. Symptoms include screens going black, blinking, or malfunctioning, often occurring at mileages as low as 1,000 to 8,000 miles. A notable safety-related incident involves a vehicle rolling away after being remotely started, resulting in a crash into a tree, though no injuries were reported. Additionally, some owners mention delays in obtaining parts for recall-related repairs, impacting the resolution of these electrical issues. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical malfunctions and the implications for vehicle operation and safety.
WHEELS
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Nissan Kicks report issues related to wheel components, with complaints frequently mentioning loose lug nuts, which lead to shuddering at speeds around 49 MPH. Another complaint describes a hubcap detaching while turning at approximately 20 MPH. These issues appear at low mileages, around 200 to 500 miles. Additionally, a complaint highlights the absence of a spare tire, replaced instead by a can of fix-a-leak spray, which some owners find inadequate for emergency situations. While no crashes or injuries are reported, the loose lug nuts and missing spare tire could potentially impact safety.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaintsOwners report that the 2025 Nissan Kicks frequently experiences issues with windshield cracking and leaking. Complaints often describe spontaneous windshield cracks occurring during normal driving conditions, sometimes as early as 2,000 miles. Multiple owners mention leaks developing around the windshield, leading to water saturation on the passenger floor, particularly after rain. This pattern suggests potential issues with either the windshield installation or the vehicle's seam integrity. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the ease of windshield cracking and subsequent leaks could pose a visibility hazard. Buyers should be aware of potential delays in obtaining replacement windshields due to high demand.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (3 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Nissan Kicks report issues with the back-over prevention system, specifically related to the display screen. Complaints frequently mention that the camera image is grainy and distorted, particularly at night, and in some cases, the display turns completely black while reversing. These issues are often connected to a recall, with owners noting that parts for the repair are unavailable or that the remedy does not resolve the problem. Mileage at the time of failure varies, with one report noting an issue at 9,000 miles. No crashes or injuries have been reported in connection with these failures, but the visibility issues could potentially affect safety during reversing.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Nissan Kicks report issues with the front windshield, specifically cracks appearing on the inside surface. These cracks, ranging from 2 to 10 inches, are noted shortly after purchase, with one owner specifying the issue at 364 miles. Additionally, multiple owners describe problems with the windshield washer system, where the fluid is found to be frozen and unusable upon delivery. The safety implications include potential visibility obstruction and the risk of the windshield shattering unexpectedly, though no incidents of crashes or loss of control are reported. These issues are brought to attention within weeks of ownership, suggesting early-stage defects in the vehicle.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2025 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while entering the vehicle, there was ice on the rear glass. After closing the door, the rear glass shattered. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The local dealer was contacted, but did not answer. The contact drove to the dealer in person; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 8,000.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintNissan of Macomb, ALL of them know us by name Mike & Bev Steering issue- does not drive straight down the highway, Slightest touch and off it goes in whatever direction you touched the steering wheel, and it will Not Recover, it will continue that direction until corrected.. DANGEROUS TO DRIVE Nissan of Macomb, alignment one of 7 (with Hubcaps ON, broke a hubcap, Never replaced ), worse than when we brought it in Received with 190 miles on it, a porter Drove it from Ohio to Michigan, rear quarter was caved in, sun faded front quarter plastic, steering wheel Kinked to the Left at least 30 degrees, headlights aimed straight up in the air, rear wipers didn’t work, remote start didn’t work (still no labels even knowing it’s installed), approach lighting didn’t work, cracked door sills and ripped rubber surrounds during Dealer installed options, exhaust system rattling, did the porter Hit something and not report it to keep his job “?” First 30 days of ownership, we were in possession of the vehicle for roughly 5-7 days, back n forth constantly and no one would repair the problems, driving Loaner vehicles.. No One Would Help us, here’s your car see ya Seven (7) Days leading up to a must drive to Florida, repeatedl phone calls to GM Cliff and service mngr Amere, No Call Back, no answer of phones, messages left ON THEIR DESKS by the service girls answering the phones, Nothing.. 4-5 times a day every day, even Texted the sales server phone number, it’s not easy for us to just pickup and drive an hour down there, disabled heart patient is always with us.. Nightmare drive all the way to Florida, the fatigue the stress, my hands Hurt holding on to the steering wheel.. Many close calls shifting in lane and side smacking other vehicles. Dangerous to drive on highway
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2025 Nissan Kicks. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, there was a loud vibrating sound coming from the rear driver’s side of the vehicle, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that on several occasions, the vehicle wobbled unexpectedly, with a grinding sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure persisted and that the vehicle was towed on several occasions. The vehicle was towed to several dealers; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. An undisclosed dealer stated that the loud clunking sound was coming from the front tires during a test drive. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 8,958.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedI was stopped at a red light waiting for the light to turn green. It turned green and I slowly went out and a car went through a red light hit my front left car. The guy was going at at least 30 to 40 miles and not one airbag went off.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintThe fuel filler door does not lock as advertised and stated in the owner's manual pg 206 2025 Nissan Kicks. This invites potential to do harm to the vehicle which could lead to a safety concern. ( The fuel filler door is suppose to lock when the car doors are locked) and unlock when the car doors are unlocked. As it stands, the fuel filler door remains unlocked all the time.
When Do 2025 Nissan Kicks Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Nissan Kicks Years
Best Nissan Kicks Years to Buy
The best Nissan Kicks year is 2022 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (81/100) and 2023 (80/100).
Nissan Kicks Years to Avoid
The worst Nissan Kicks year is 2018 with a score of 71/100, primarily due to electrical system (17) issues.
See full Nissan Kicks years-to-avoid analysis →Nissan Kicks Reliability Score Trend
Nissan Kicks reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 78/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Nissan Kicks Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 80/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 1 | 1 |
| 2025(selected) | 78/100 | -3 | Good | 3 | 24 |
| 2024 | 81/100 | +1 | Excellent | 1 | 20 |
| 2023 | 80/100 | -2 | Excellent | 1 | 23 |
| 2022 | 82/100 | +4 | Excellent | 0 | 19 |
| 2021 | 78/100 | 0 | Good | 2 | 66 |
| 2020 | 78/100 | +5 | Good | 0 | 85 |
| 2019 | 73/100 | +2 | Good | 1 | 123 |
| 2018 | 71/100 | — | Good | 1 | 78 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Nissan Kicks reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Nissan Kicks?
How many recalls does the 2025 Nissan Kicks have?
Is the 2025 Nissan Kicks expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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