Nissan brand mark

Is the 2018–2024 Nissan Kicks reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

7.3/ 10
Solid

On our documented-fault scoring the Nissan Kicks rates 7.3 out of 10 · solid. We hold 8 known faults for it and none of them are rated critical, so the risk is mostly wear rather than disaster. The weak points cluster around transmission, electrical and engine. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Buy, but check the known weak points

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
0
Medium
3
Low
5

Weak points cluster around transmission, electrical, engine, brakes.

Two faults free · full checklist for this exact Nissan Kicks for $9.

Check this car

The faults that decide it

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.
Typical repair
Routine repair · £180–£700
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.
Typical repair
Diagnostics & follow-on repair · £90–£700
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.
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
ElectricalLow

Infotainment lag and Bluetooth dropouts.

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Test the touchscreen and phone pairing.
Typical repair
Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200
EngineLow

Underpowered 1.6L feel and occasional stalling.

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Confirm smooth idle and acceptable performance.
Typical repair
Minor repair or adjustment · £80–£350

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

Inspecting a Nissan Kicks?

See two faults free, then get the full tickable checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Full report $9.

Check this exact car