2018 Nissan Kicks recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Nissan Kicks and 86 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (26), engine (23), electrical system (23). EPA-rated fuel economy is about 33 mpg combined.
The 2018 ranks #7 of 9 Kicks model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (61). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Nissan Kicks. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Back over prevention · sensing system · camera
Problem: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
Shows an error with the front collision sensor, the engine losses power and eventually shuts down (engine turns off) in the middle of the highway. The check engine light turns on as well as the Automatic Emergency Braking System warning light and the slip indicator light. It also displays the image of the front sensor light on with the warning message “Malfunction. See owners…
My transmission failed while traveling on a highway at 60mph almost causing an accident. Issues with this generation of cvt transmissions have been the subject of multiple lawsuits and warrenty extensions. Nissan is knowingly selling defective vehicles and offer no assistance in resolving their failures. Nissan needs to be held accountable for risking the safety of its customer…
It originally started about two years ago when the check engine light came on (along with others) that point to a code with the Mass Air Flow sensor. It would stall at low RPMs at traffic lights, and was extremely worrying during normal driving. We got it replaced and so far okay, but recently the ABS and traction control lights come on and stay on. Another issue that many MANY…
Safety ratings
2018 Nissan Kicks SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Nissan Kicks.
Kicks
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Nissan Kicks have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Nissan Kicks, most recently for back over prevention · sensing system · camera (09/12/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Nissan Kicks?
Based on 86 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (26), engine (23), electrical system (23).
Is the 2018 Nissan Kicks safe?
NHTSA hasn't published an overall 5-star rating for the 2018 Nissan Kicks.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Nissan Kicks?
The 2018 ranks #7 of 9 Kicks model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (61). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Nissan Kicks get?
The 2018 Nissan Kicks is EPA-rated at about 33 mpg combined.
Own a 2018 Nissan Kicks in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: KICKS, Kicks.