2020 Nissan Kicks Safety Report
2020 Nissan Kicks: Good Crash Ratings, but Recurring ADAS and Powertrain Malfunctions Raise Safety Concerns with No Recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Nissan Kicks
Reliability Score
The 2020 Nissan Kicks receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2020 Nissan Kicks
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Nissan Kicks:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Malfunction Multiple reports of CVT transmission failure, stalling, loss of power, and inability to accelerate, sometimes at low mileage. This includes instances where the vehicle would not move forward in traffic. |
High | Occasional | 1300-66541 miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction Frequent complaints of the forward collision warning system activating erroneously, auto-braking without cause, or failing to work, often accompanied by other warning lights. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Electrical System/Sensor Malfunctions Recurring issues with various warning lights illuminating (ABS, traction control, engine, ADAS), often leading to vehicle stalling, loss of acceleration, or other critical system failures. This includes mass airflow sensor issues. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Brake System Malfunction Reports of brakes failing to work, pedal going to the floor, or the vehicle unexpectedly braking on its own, sometimes linked to ADAS malfunctions. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Stalling/Loss Of Power Vehicle stalling or losing acceleration while driving, often associated with electrical issues, sensor malfunctions, or powertrain problems. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Nissan Kicks:
Frequent malfunctions of the forward collision warning system, including false positives and system failures, often linked to electrical issues.
Issues with the CVT transmission, including failure, stalling, and loss of power, impacting vehicle drivability and safety.
Widespread electrical issues leading to various warning lights, sensor malfunctions, and critical system failures like stalling or loss of acceleration.
Reports of brake failure or unexpected auto-braking, sometimes in conjunction with ADAS malfunctions.
Complaints related to airbag system, though specific details are less frequent than other categories.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Nissan Kicks
Is the 2020 Nissan Kicks safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Nissan Kicks received good crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side). However, it has 85 complaints, 6 crashes, and 2 injuries, with recurring issues in its Forward Collision Avoidance system, Power Train (CVT), and Electrical System. These functional failures, despite good crash ratings, raise concerns about its overall operational safety.
What are common problems with the 2020 Nissan Kicks?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Nissan Kicks are related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system (7 complaints), Power Train (6 complaints, often CVT failure), and Electrical System (4 complaints), which frequently manifest as sensor malfunctions, unexpected braking, stalling, or loss of acceleration.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Nissan Kicks?
According to the provided data, there are no recalls issued for the 2020 Nissan Kicks, despite a pattern of significant safety-related complaints regarding its ADAS, powertrain, and electrical systems.
How does the 2020 Nissan Kicks perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Nissan Kicks performed well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving an Overall 4-star rating, with 4 stars in Frontal crash, 5 stars in Side crash, and 4 stars in Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if considering a used 2020 Nissan Kicks?
If considering a used 2020 Nissan Kicks, pay close attention to any warning lights on the dashboard, especially those related to the engine, ABS, traction control, and forward collision avoidance. Test the transmission for smooth operation and listen for any unusual noises or hesitation, as CVT failures are reported. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to check for electrical system faults and powertrain health.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the recurring and critical complaints regarding ADAS malfunctions, CVT transmission failures, and electrical system issues, potential buyers should proceed with caution and ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on these known problem areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Nissan Kicks
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Nissan Kicks. The data includes 85 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Nissan Kicks an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.