TransmissionMedium
CVT drone and reduced performance over time.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive under load and check CVT fluid service history.
2020 Nissan Kicks problems
A 2020 Nissan Kicks is now 6 years old, so an average example has covered around 81,000 miles. An early car in the generation · most of the launch teething issues were still being worked through, so recall completion and dealer rectification history matter. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2020 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2020 Nissan Kicks is 6 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 81,000 miles. At that mileage 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
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Build the inspection planFaults a 2020 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~81k miles an average 2020 car has covered.
BrakesLow
Front pad wear and light rotor scoring.
- Typically appears
- 40,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Inspect pad thickness and braking feel.
Driver Assistance SystemsMedium
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) warning light illuminates randomly, often disabling the cruise control system.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and check the instrument cluster for an amber collision warning light. Inspect the front grille Nissan badge for stone chips, dirt buildup, or loose mounting affecting the radar.
Rear SuspensionMedium
Knocking or clunking noise from the rear over uneven surfaces due to premature rear shock absorber failure and fluid leakage.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch into the rear wheel arches to check the shock absorber bodies for dark oil weeping. Push down firmly on the boot floor to test for poor rebound damping.
Interior SeatingLow
Driver's seat rocks slightly backwards and forwards under acceleration or braking due to worn seat track runners.
- Typically appears
- 20,000-40,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Sit in the driver's seat, adjust it to a middle position, and forcefully shift your body weight forwards and backwards to feel for any clicking or physical movement in the runners.
Exhaust SystemLow
Metallic rattling or buzzing noise from underneath the vehicle at idle or low revs, caused by a corroded or loose exhaust heat shield.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold, leave it idling in park, and listen near the driver's side sill for a tinny vibration. Blip the throttle slightly to induce the rattle.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment lag and Bluetooth dropouts.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the touchscreen and phone pairing.
EngineLow
Underpowered 1.6L feel and occasional stalling.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm smooth idle and acceptable performance.
Inspecting a 2020 Nissan Kicks?
Turn this car's known weak points into a step-by-step viewing plan · what to inspect, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller.
Build my inspection planNissan Kicks · frequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Kicks reliable?
Yes for a budget car — mostly minor issues, but mind the CVT on higher-mileage examples.
Does the Kicks have transmission problems?
No widespread failures, but the CVT benefits from regular fluid changes.
What should I check on a used Kicks?
CVT feel and service history, infotainment and brakes.
Does the 1.6-litre engine use a timing belt or a timing chain?
The HR16DE 1.6-litre petrol engine utilises a steel timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt. This chain is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and does not require routine replacement. However, neglected oil changes can cause chain stretch, so verifying the service history is essential for forecourt stock.
Is excessive oil consumption a known issue on this engine?
Unlike some older Nissan powerplants, the HR16DE in the Kicks does not suffer from widespread or excessive oil burning. Provided the vehicle has received regular servicing with the correct grade of synthetic oil, consumption between scheduled intervals remains minimal. Always check the dipstick for oil condition during your initial appraisal.
Can the Nissan Kicks be fitted with a tow bar for light duties?
Nissan explicitly states that the Kicks is not designed for towing any type of trailer or caravan. The chassis, continuously variable transmission, and cooling system lack the capacity for towing loads. If a part-exchange vehicle arrives with a tow bar fitted, it should be removed and the transmission thoroughly inspected.
Other Kicks model years
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