The 2021 Nissan Kicks has 71 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are structure and forward collision avoidance. Owners most often flag cvt transmission failures: catastrophic failure requiring full replacement, often between 60,000-120,000 km (37,000-75,000 miles) on 2019-2024 models. includes reports of complete failure on a brand-new 2025 model at 500 miles. frequency: very frequent.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Nissan Kicks vehicles (US, public record).
Across the 5 Kicks model years we track, complaint volume runs from 30 (2024) to 132 (2019). With 71 complaints, the 2021 Kicks sits about the same asthe model's median of 83.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
steering:electric power assist system
Campaign 22V693000Nissan 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.
steering:electric power assist system
Campaign 23V496000Nissan 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.
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a clear generational divide. The 2025-2026 model year redesign receives praise for its modern styling, improved interior technology, comfortable ride, good fuel economy (20-40 MPG reported), and…
Owner insights cover all generations of the Kicks. See the full Kicks owner picture and every model year.
Used Kicks listings typically run $19,777–$25,987 across 2018 to 2026 model years.
Compare every Kicks year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.