NISSAN KICKS · model year

2021 NISSAN KICKS

89 NHTSA complaints, 7 crash reports, and 2 active recalls for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

4 / 5 ★

New Car Assessment Program

The 2021NISSANKICKS carries 89 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 7 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, and 0 fatalities. For crash performance, NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gave this cohort an overall 4/5 rating, with 4/5 front crash, 5/5 side crash, and 4/5 rollover scores derived from standardized barrier and dynamic tests.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2021 KICKS is structure:body with 24 filings, followed by unknown or other (14) and forward collision avoidance: warnings (10). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 2 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 54 investigation files overlapping the 2021 KICKS, and 5 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

89
Complaints
7
Crashes
0
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
2021 NISSAN KICKS — NHTSA crash-test profile NHTSA NCAP crash-test star ratings for the 2021 NISSAN KICKS. Overall composite: 4.0 of 5 stars across 3 safety dimensions. Front CrashSide CrashRollover 4.0 NHTSA NCAP of 5 stars
  • Front Crash 4.0 ★
  • Side Crash 5.0 ★
  • Rollover 4.0 ★
NHTSA overall 4.0/5 stars, with front-crash, side-crash and rollover ratings from standardized NCAP barrier and dynamic tests.

Total Complaints

89 filings

Crashes Reported

7 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

At or below the fleet median complaint volume.

NHTSA NCAP overall: 4/5 — Strong NCAP rating · Front: 4/5 · Side: 5/5 · Rollover: 4/5

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
STRUCTURE:BODY24
UNKNOWN OR OTHER14
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM8
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING6
ENGINE5
POWER TRAIN5
SERVICE BRAKES4
AIR BAGS3
STEERING2
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL2
SEATS1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC1
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION1

Recalls (2)

23V49600018/07/2023

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

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.

22V69300015/09/2022

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

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.

Recent Complaints

20260204POWER TRAIN

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 p

20260204STRUCTURE:BODY

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 p

20260201UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Apple Play/radio do not turn on once the car is started. I brought it to the dealer and was told that there were no updates available at this time and I would have to replace the unit.

20251208UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Aloha, TSB NTB22-028 and NTB23‑018, March 2023 clearly a defect pattern in the infotainment system. Audio distorts and navigation screens freezes which could result in an accident. I contacted Nissan consumer affairs case # XXX. It was escalated to an area manager who recommended I reach out to NHTSA. Nissan is only willing to cover 50% of the cost to replace the infotainment system. Hopefully by sending this complaint form it will help having the whole cost covered. Mahalo, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

20251121STEERING

The likely failed component is the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL). Associated systems include the steering column, BCM, and EPS motor. Yes, the vehicle and component are available for inspection upon request (Owner: [XXX] , [XXX] ). The safety of the owner and other drivers was put at risk by the sudden, unpredictable loss of steering control (locking mid-turn). This makes it impossible to safely navigate curves or avoid hazards, leading to a high risk of a severe crash, injury, or fatality. The no-start condition also strands the owner. UNKNOWN. The report only states that the symptoms strongly align with an ESCL failure based on a diagnostic summary, but does not explicitly confirm a dealer or independent service center has reproduced or confirmed the specific ESCL component failure. UNKNOWN. The report does not mention inspection by the manufacturer (Nissan), police, or insurance representatives. The main warning symptom is the intermittent brake warning light (randomly

20251121ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The likely failed component is the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL). Associated systems include the steering column, BCM, and EPS motor. Yes, the vehicle and component are available for inspection upon request (Owner: [XXX] , [XXX] ). The safety of the owner and other drivers was put at risk by the sudden, unpredictable loss of steering control (locking mid-turn). This makes it impossible to safely navigate curves or avoid hazards, leading to a high risk of a severe crash, injury, or fatality. The no-start condition also strands the owner. UNKNOWN. The report only states that the symptoms strongly align with an ESCL failure based on a diagnostic summary, but does not explicitly confirm a dealer or independent service center has reproduced or confirmed the specific ESCL component failure. UNKNOWN. The report does not mention inspection by the manufacturer (Nissan), police, or insurance representatives. The main warning symptom is the intermittent brake warning light (randomly

20251121VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

The likely failed component is the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL). Associated systems include the steering column, BCM, and EPS motor. Yes, the vehicle and component are available for inspection upon request (Owner: [XXX] , [XXX] ). The safety of the owner and other drivers was put at risk by the sudden, unpredictable loss of steering control (locking mid-turn). This makes it impossible to safely navigate curves or avoid hazards, leading to a high risk of a severe crash, injury, or fatality. The no-start condition also strands the owner. UNKNOWN. The report only states that the symptoms strongly align with an ESCL failure based on a diagnostic summary, but does not explicitly confirm a dealer or independent service center has reproduced or confirmed the specific ESCL component failure. UNKNOWN. The report does not mention inspection by the manufacturer (Nissan), police, or insurance representatives. The main warning symptom is the intermittent brake warning light (randomly

20251114SERVICE BRAKES

My vehicle has a serious safety defect involving the braking system and related electronic controls. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time. The main failure is sudden, unintended braking without me pressing the pedal. On November 5, 2025, around 6:20 p.m., the vehicle brake-checked in traffic and almost caused a rear-end collision. This continues to put my safety and the safety of others at risk every time I drive, but I have no other transportation for work. Along with the sudden braking, the car has loud crunching and dragging noises when braking or beginning to move, difficulty shifting between Drive, Reverse, and Park, and intermittent warning lights. Warning lights have appeared several times, and on one occasion stayed on long enough for me to bring the vehicle in. These symptoms first began in July 2025 and have continued ever since. The problems have been repeatedly reproduced by me and reported to the dealer. Although the dealership has sometimes claimed they c

20251114ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My vehicle has a serious safety defect involving the braking system and related electronic controls. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time. The main failure is sudden, unintended braking without me pressing the pedal. On November 5, 2025, around 6:20 p.m., the vehicle brake-checked in traffic and almost caused a rear-end collision. This continues to put my safety and the safety of others at risk every time I drive, but I have no other transportation for work. Along with the sudden braking, the car has loud crunching and dragging noises when braking or beginning to move, difficulty shifting between Drive, Reverse, and Park, and intermittent warning lights. Warning lights have appeared several times, and on one occasion stayed on long enough for me to bring the vehicle in. These symptoms first began in July 2025 and have continued ever since. The problems have been repeatedly reproduced by me and reported to the dealer. Although the dealership has sometimes claimed they c

20251114FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

My vehicle has a serious safety defect involving the braking system and related electronic controls. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time. The main failure is sudden, unintended braking without me pressing the pedal. On November 5, 2025, around 6:20 p.m., the vehicle brake-checked in traffic and almost caused a rear-end collision. This continues to put my safety and the safety of others at risk every time I drive, but I have no other transportation for work. Along with the sudden braking, the car has loud crunching and dragging noises when braking or beginning to move, difficulty shifting between Drive, Reverse, and Park, and intermittent warning lights. Warning lights have appeared several times, and on one occasion stayed on long enough for me to bring the vehicle in. These symptoms first began in July 2025 and have continued ever since. The problems have been repeatedly reproduced by me and reported to the dealer. Although the dealership has sometimes claimed they c

20251107CrashPOWER TRAIN

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. The contact stated that the traffic light turned red, and the contact stopped the vehicle, and the vehicle failed to move when the light turned green. The contact stated that the driver behind started honking the horn however, the contact was unable to drive off and waved the other driver to go around. The contact stated that when the vehicle finally responded, the vehicle reversed instead and crashed into another vehicle. The Police was called, and a Police report was filed. The contact sustained a left side muscle strain from the neck down to the hip. The contact received medical attention at the Emergency Room. The contact called the Insurance provider, and the vehicle was towed to a Collision Center. The contact was informed that the failure was transmission related. The Insurance provi

20250808ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

While driving the car seems to be stalling, slowing down while I’m driving. The car feels like it doesn’t want to go up to a fast speed on the highway. I feel uncomfortable and unsafe that the car will stop instantly on the highway and cause me to crash. So that is why I’m reporting this because it’s unsafe. Secondly the left driver side window goes up in down while I’m driving. This also makes me feel uncomfortable while driving.

20250808UNKNOWN OR OTHER

While driving the car seems to be stalling, slowing down while I’m driving. The car feels like it doesn’t want to go up to a fast speed on the highway. I feel uncomfortable and unsafe that the car will stop instantly on the highway and cause me to crash. So that is why I’m reporting this because it’s unsafe. Secondly the left driver side window goes up in down while I’m driving. This also makes me feel uncomfortable while driving.

20250611ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I’ve been going in the dealership a lot regarding this car since I’ve purchase the car On 10/09 I was charged 165.00 to get diagnosed test done on car After diagnosed Service informed me to get electrical intake valve and EMC Unit, EMC Bracket and Audio unit replaced from Nissan Service In Grand Blanc Michigan, Dealership quoted me close to $5,561 to all this electrical work fixed, General Manager King in grand blanc Michigan , called the police on me at his dealership yesterday ,after I tried to explain this to him. He only offered me to call customer service and $500 off I am Army Veteran who pays her car payment on time every month which is a $534.00 a month these people are very , unprofessional, inconsiderate and rude , my radio has not work since 08/2023, due to electrical and wiring issues EMC Unit EMC Bracket , I purchase the car in [XXX], my payoff balance is $22,000 please HELP car battery is draining almost everyday because of these electrical issues every six

20250524STRUCTURE:BODY

Drivers side door lock will not function properly. The remote will successfully lock/unlock all of the other doors. If the drivers door is locked with the key it will remain locked despite the other doors unlocking with the remote. This problem has been widely reported on Nissan online forums, there are no indicator/warning lights associated with this issue. This issue provides the illusion of a securely locked car when then drivers door remains unlocked, providing an opportunity for theft or worse while parked. This has been an ongoing issue since purchasing the vehicle.

20250522VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

car will not accelerate after pressing gas pedal all the way down; has jerking motion to get it to go then sometimes will not move at all; you have to turn car off and try several times

20250516ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I was driving at a speed of 32 no other cars around. All of a sudden I hear some buzzing and feel vibration, and I see a hazard icon in the dash flashing. It was a white triangle outlined in red with a red exclamation mark inside of the triangle. The car slowed dramatically almost stopping as the alarm or buzzing sounded. Then all at once the alarm stopped and the car resumed speed.

20250516UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I was driving at a speed of 32 no other cars around. All of a sudden I hear some buzzing and feel vibration, and I see a hazard icon in the dash flashing. It was a white triangle outlined in red with a red exclamation mark inside of the triangle. The car slowed dramatically almost stopping as the alarm or buzzing sounded. Then all at once the alarm stopped and the car resumed speed.

20250429UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Drivers door won't open from inside or outside I can climb out passenger seat when this happens and use the key to manually unlock door This happens quite often

20250319SERVICE BRAKES

The vehicle has a sensor in the front that will auto brake if it thinks I will crash into something . However many times it’s braked there’s been nothing in front of the car. I’ll have great distance between my car and the one in front of me. There have been at least 4 incidents since I’ve owned the car (1 year). There’s no active recalls, and the light will flash that I’m going to hit something until I shut off the car. Once I turn it back on the warning collision light is gone.

Compare 2021NISSANKICKS to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations 5 Open

View all investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2021 NISSAN KICKS have?
The 2021 NISSAN KICKS has 89 NHTSA complaints, 7 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 NISSAN KICKS?
The 2021 NISSAN KICKS received an overall NHTSA safety rating of 4/5, front crash rating of 4/5, side crash rating of 5/5, and rollover rating of 4/5.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 NISSAN KICKS?
Yes, the 2021 NISSAN KICKS has 2 recall(s). The most common affected component is STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 NISSAN KICKS?
The most-complained component for the 2021 NISSAN KICKS is STRUCTURE:BODY with 24 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include UNKNOWN OR OTHER and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS.
Is the 2021 NISSAN KICKS safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. The 2021 NISSAN KICKS has an NHTSA safety rating of 4/5. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.