Is the Nissan Kicks Reliable?
2018–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other suvs — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Nissan Kicks? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Nissan Kicks Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 15 | — | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 2 | 18 | 1 | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 0 | 30 | — | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 0 | 18 | — | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 0 | 21 | — | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 1 | 38 | — | — | 93 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 0 | 83 | 3 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 0 | 138 | 4 | — | 84 | Excellent |
| 2018 | 0 | 84 | — | — | 84 | Excellent |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Kicks Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Kicks scores 30 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Known Nissan Kicks Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 445 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Kicks reliable?+
The Nissan Kicks scores 99/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 9 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 3 recall campaigns and 445 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Kicks is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Kicks achieved the highest reliability score of 100/100 with 0 recalls and 15 complaints.
How many miles does a Kicks last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Nissan Kicks owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Kicks will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Nissan Kicks Research
Check a Specific Nissan Kicks VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →