2021 Nissan Kicks recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Nissan Kicks and 78 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are structure (24), unknown or other (16), forward collision avoidance (15). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is about 33 mpg combined.
The 2021 ranks #6 of 9 Kicks model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (61). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Nissan Kicks. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Steering · electric power assist system
Problem: Nissan 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.
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a steering column replacement, under recall number 22V-693. These vehicles will need to be reinspected for this recall.
Steering · electric power assist system
Problem: Nissan 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.
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
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
The car won’t accelerate pass 40mph , ABS light will turn on , it completely stopped on the free way. I waited 5 minutes and the car started running. I d been doing this since march 2026. Got a diagnosis they thought it was a wheel bearings and sensor but the car didn’t accelerate again. And stopped working.
Engine timing and Transmission failed and replaced before 90,000 miles,
Engine light keeps coming on, just had 1 camshaft changed.
Safety ratings
2021 Nissan Kicks SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Nissan Kicks.
Kicks
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Kicks have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Nissan Kicks, most recently for steering · electric power assist system (07/18/2023). 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 2021 Nissan Kicks?
Based on 78 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are structure (24), unknown or other (16), forward collision avoidance (15).
Is the 2021 Nissan Kicks safe?
The 2021 Nissan Kicks earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Nissan Kicks?
The 2021 ranks #6 of 9 Kicks model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (61). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Nissan Kicks get?
The 2021 Nissan Kicks is EPA-rated at about 33 mpg combined.
Own a 2021 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.