The Nissan Kicks, launched in 2016, brought a fresh and budget-friendly option to the compact SUV market. Its stylish design, practical interior, and relatively low price point have made it a popular choice among city dwellers and first-time buyers. While the Kicks generally offers a solid driving experience, it's not without its share of common problems, especially as it reaches higher mileage or is exposed to harsher driving conditions. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the common issues faced by the Nissan Kicks (2016-2020), offer tips for potential buyers, discuss the costs of ownership, and explore better alternatives if you’re considering other vehicles in the same category.
Common Problems of the Nissan Kicks (2016-2020)
1. Transmission Issues (CVT Problems)
The Nissan Kicks, like many other Nissan models, is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the CVT is designed to provide smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, it has been a source of frustration for some Kicks owners. Nissan’s CVT transmissions, particularly in earlier models, have garnered a reputation for issues related to poor performance and reliability.
Common Symptoms:
- Hesitation or delayed acceleration: A common issue with the CVT is hesitation during acceleration, especially when moving from a stop or trying to accelerate at highway speeds. This delay can be frustrating for drivers used to more immediate responses from traditional automatic transmissions.
- Slipping or surging: In some cases, the CVT can experience slipping, where the engine revs higher without the car accelerating at the expected rate. This can lead to a feeling of unpredictability or a lack of power when driving.
- Excessive engine noise: Some Kicks owners report that the engine noise becomes louder than expected, particularly under hard acceleration, due to the CVT’s design.
- Shuddering or jerking: Another symptom that owners have experienced is the transmission shuddering or jerking during acceleration or deceleration. This issue could be the result of wear and tear on the CVT components or low fluid levels.
What to Look For:
- Test drive the car: During a test drive, pay close attention to how the car accelerates, especially from a stop. Any hesitation or jerking should be noted and reported to the seller or dealership for further inspection.
- Listen for unusual noises: Pay attention to any whining or excessive engine noise when accelerating, as this could be a sign of transmission issues.
- Check the CVT fluid: If possible, check the CVT fluid level and color. Dark or burnt-smelling fluid could indicate underlying problems with the transmission.
2. Brake Problems
Some Nissan Kicks owners have reported problems with the braking system, particularly the rear brakes. These issues, while not widespread, can be a concern, especially if you're purchasing a higher-mileage model.
Common Symptoms:
- Squeaky or grinding noises: If you hear squeaking or grinding noises when applying the brakes, it could be due to worn brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or other issues with the braking system. This is particularly common in models with higher mileage.
- Reduced braking performance: Some drivers have noted that the brakes feel less responsive than they should, which could be a sign of brake pad wear or air in the brake lines.
- Premature wear: The rear brakes of some Kicks models have been reported to wear out prematurely, which could lead to more frequent brake maintenance.
What to Look For:
- Listen for unusual sounds: During your test drive, pay attention to any squealing, grinding, or scraping noises when applying the brakes.
- Feel the braking performance: Test the brakes at different speeds to ensure that they feel responsive and don’t have a spongy or unbalanced feel.
- Inspect the brake pads and rotors: If possible, inspect the condition of the brake pads and rotors for signs of wear. This can help you gauge the car's maintenance history and whether any immediate brake repairs may be necessary.
3. Electrical System Malfunctions
Electrical issues are not uncommon in the Nissan Kicks, especially with models that are a few years old. Problems with the car’s electrical system can affect various components, such as the infotainment system, lighting, and even the car's keyless entry system.
Common Symptoms:
- Infotainment system glitches: The Kicks' infotainment system, which includes the NissanConnect system, has been reported to malfunction, freeze, or fail to connect to smartphones. Sometimes the touch screen can become unresponsive, and in some cases, the system may crash entirely.
- Keyless entry and ignition issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the keyless entry system, such as the car failing to recognize the key fob or intermittently unlocking. Similarly, some have had trouble starting the car, despite having a fully charged key fob battery.
- Faulty sensors: A number of drivers have reported issues with various sensors in the car, including parking sensors and collision sensors, which can cause erroneous alerts or fail to function at all.
What to Look For:
- Test the infotainment system: During your test drive, connect your phone to the infotainment system via Bluetooth or USB and make sure everything works smoothly. Test the navigation, media, and connectivity functions to check for any glitches.
- Check keyless entry functionality: Test the keyless entry system by locking and unlocking the car using the fob, and ensure that it operates without delay or malfunction.
- Test sensors and alerts: Ensure that parking sensors and collision warning systems are working correctly, particularly if the vehicle is equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems.
4. Suspension and Ride Comfort Issues
Although the Nissan Kicks is generally known for its comfort and smooth ride, some owners have reported issues with the suspension system. The Kicks’ suspension can become less effective over time, especially when driving on rough or uneven surfaces.
Common Symptoms:
- Bumpy or rough ride: Over time, suspension components like shock absorbers or strut mounts may wear out, resulting in a rougher ride. This can cause the car to feel less stable or bouncy when driving over bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces.
- Unusual noises: Worn suspension parts can lead to creaking, clunking, or rattling noises, especially when going over bumps or making sharp turns.
What to Look For:
- Test the ride quality: Take the Kicks over a variety of road surfaces to assess the ride quality. Any bounciness, instability, or excessive noise could indicate suspension issues.
- Listen for strange sounds: Pay attention to any strange sounds from the suspension when driving over bumps or making turns. If you hear any creaking, clunking, or rattling, it could be a sign of worn suspension components.
5. Paint and Exterior Wear
Some Kicks owners have noticed that the exterior paint can wear more quickly than expected, especially on models exposed to harsh weather conditions or frequent road trips. This issue is relatively minor compared to mechanical problems but can affect the car’s appearance.
Common Symptoms:
- Fading or peeling paint: The paint may begin to fade or peel, particularly on areas of the car exposed to constant sunlight or extreme weather. This issue is more prominent on certain colors, such as black and dark blue.
- Scratches or chips: The paint is susceptible to scratching or chipping, especially around door edges or the front bumper.
What to Look For:
- Inspect the exterior: Look closely at the car’s body for any signs of fading, peeling, or scratches. Pay particular attention to the roof, hood, and side panels, as these areas are more likely to show wear.
- Check for previous resprays: If the car has been repainted, it may be an indication of prior damage or cosmetic repairs. Ensure that any repainting is of good quality and matches the rest of the car.
What to Look for When Buying a Nissan Kicks (2016-2020)
When purchasing a used Nissan Kicks, it’s crucial to assess the vehicle carefully to ensure it’s in good condition. Here’s what to focus on:
- Service History: Verify that the car has been regularly serviced, especially concerning transmission fluid changes and brake pad replacements. Check if the CVT fluid has been changed at the recommended intervals, as this is crucial for the longevity of the transmission.
- Mileage: Like any used car, the lower the mileage, the better. However, don’t discount a higher-mileage vehicle if it has been well-maintained and has a good service record.
- Exterior Condition: Look for any signs of rust, paint fading, or previous repairs. If the car has a history of accidents, it could affect its resale value and longevity.
- Test Drive: Ensure that the car runs smoothly, with no strange noises from the engine or transmission. Pay attention to the brake performance, suspension, and ride comfort.
How Expensive is It to Own a Nissan Kicks (2016-2020)?
The Nissan Kicks is generally considered affordable to own, with relatively low operating costs, making it a budget-friendly choice for many. Here's an overview of the key ownership costs:
- Fuel Economy: The Kicks offers excellent fuel efficiency, with an average of 31-36 mpg (miles per gallon), making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the subcompact SUV category.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the Kicks are typically moderate, with premiums depending on the driver’s profile, location, and driving history. Generally, it is more affordable to insure compared to larger SUVs.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance costs, such as oil changes and tire replacements, are relatively affordable. However, larger repairs, particularly those related to the CVT or suspension components, can be more expensive. In the long term, the CVT might require special attention, so factor this into your cost calculations.
Better Alternatives to the Nissan Kicks (2016-2020)
If you're considering alternatives to the Nissan Kicks, several models offer similar benefits but may be more reliable or provide better overall value:
- Honda HR-V (2016-2020): Known for its superior build quality, spacious interior, and strong reliability, the HR-V is a fantastic alternative to the Kicks, particularly if you're looking for a more refined driving experience.
- Mazda CX-3 (2016-2020): The Mazda CX-3 offers excellent handling, a stylish design, and a premium feel. While slightly more expensive than the Kicks, it is well worth considering for those seeking a sportier compact SUV.
- Toyota C-HR (2016-2020): With its bold styling and excellent reputation for reliability, the Toyota C-HR is another great alternative. It has similar size and features to the Kicks, but with fewer reported transmission or suspension problems.
- Hyundai Kona (2017-2020): The Hyundai Kona stands out with its sharp design, advanced features, and reliable performance. It also tends to have fewer common issues compared to the Kicks, making it a solid alternative.
- Chevrolet Trax (2016-2020): The Chevy Trax offers a comfortable ride, good interior quality, and a reasonable price tag, providing a great alternative for buyers seeking a compact SUV.
Conclusion
The Nissan Kicks (2016-2020) is a great budget-friendly subcompact SUV with a stylish design and solid fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be mindful of common issues like CVT transmission problems, brake wear, and electrical malfunctions. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that the Kicks remains a reliable and cost-effective vehicle over time.
If you are looking for a compact SUV with fewer reported issues, alternatives like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, or Toyota C-HR may provide a better overall ownership experience. Regardless, with the right precautions, the Nissan Kicks can still be a great choice for those looking for an affordable, compact SUV.