2022 Nissan Kicks Safety Report

2022 Nissan Kicks shows good crash test scores but concerning real-world powertrain, steering, and ADAS failures with 20 complaints and no recalls.

20Complaints
0Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (3)Steering,Suspension,Wheels (2)Forward Collision Avoidance (2)Power Train,Unknown Or Other (1)Seats (1)Power Train (1)Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Electrical System,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Structure (1)Service Brakes (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Nissan Kicks

The 2022 Nissan Kicks presents a mixed safety picture based on NHTSA data. While it achieved respectable crash test ratings, including a 4-star Overall rating, 4-star Frontal, 5-star Side, and 4-star Rollover, the vehicle has accumulated 20 complaints, with 2 resulting in crashes and 2 injuries, despite having no recalls. A significant concern is the pattern of powertrain issues, particularly the CVT transmission, with multiple reports of the vehicle stalling or failing to accelerate, posing a direct safety risk in traffic. The ENGINE component alone accounts for 3 complaints, including a severe instance of a blown motor at 9,000 miles. Beyond powertrain problems, the Forward Collision Avoidance system is a notable area of concern, with 2 complaints detailing erratic behavior, such as the car swerving independently, slowing down unexpectedly, or stopping abruptly without obstacles. Steering issues are also prevalent, with multiple drivers reporting difficulty controlling the vehicle at highway speeds, especially in windy conditions, describing it as 'super sloppy' and 'almost unmanageable.' This suggests potential design flaws affecting stability and driver confidence. Other critical issues include instances of the hood inadvertently flying open while driving at highway speeds, shattering the windshield in one case, and brake rotor cracks at low mileage. The absence of any recalls for these reported issues is concerning, as some complaints describe severe safety hazards. While crash test performance is solid, the real-world complaint data highlights several critical reliability and safety defects that warrant attention, particularly regarding the powertrain, steering, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Reliability Score

The 2022 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 2022 Nissan Kicks

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Nissan Kicks:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Cvt Transmission Failure/Stalling
Vehicle stalls, shudders, or fails to accelerate, often in traffic, posing a significant safety risk. Reported as early as 14 miles.		 High Common 14-9000 miles
Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction
System causes erratic driving, swerving, unexpected deceleration, or abrupt stops without obstacles, leading to dangerous situations.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Steering Instability At Highway Speeds/Wind
Vehicle becomes difficult to control, 'super sloppy,' or 'unmanageable' in moderate wind or at highway speeds, making lane keeping challenging.		 High Common 100-9000 miles
Hood Inadvertently Flying Open
Hood unexpectedly opens while driving at highway speeds, shattering the windshield and obstructing driver's view.		 High Rare 9000 miles
Engine Failure/Blown Motor
Complete engine shutdown and failure, including a blown motor with low piston pressure, at very low mileage.		 High Rare 9000 miles
Brake Rotor Cracks
Cracks observed on front brake rotors between holes, indicating potential material or manufacturing defect.		 Medium Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Nissan Kicks:

Engine 15% of complaints

Multiple reports of engine stalling, failure to accelerate, and one instance of a blown motor at low mileage.

Power Train 10% of complaints

Issues related to the CVT transmission, including stalling and vehicle not moving forward when accelerating.

Forward Collision Avoidance 10% of complaints

System malfunctions causing erratic driving, unexpected braking, and swerving.

Steering 10% of complaints

Difficulty controlling the vehicle at highway speeds, especially in windy conditions, described as 'sloppy' or 'unmanageable'.

Latches/Locks/Linkages 5% of complaints

Hood inadvertently flying open while driving at highway speeds.

Service Brakes 5% of complaints

Reports of brake rotor cracks and the vehicle independently coming to an abrupt stop.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Nissan Kicks

Is the 2022 Nissan Kicks safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Nissan Kicks received good crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side), but real-world complaints highlight significant safety concerns. There are 20 total complaints, including 2 crashes and 2 injuries, with recurring issues related to powertrain failures (stalling, no acceleration), erratic Forward Collision Avoidance system behavior, and steering instability at highway speeds. The absence of recalls for these issues is notable.

What are common problems with the 2022 Nissan Kicks?

The most reported issues for the 2022 Nissan Kicks include ENGINE problems (3 complaints) such as stalling and a blown motor, POWER TRAIN issues (2 complaints) related to the CVT transmission, and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system malfunctions (2 complaints) causing erratic driving. STEERING problems (2 complaints) at highway speeds and instances of the hood flying open are also significant concerns.

Are there any recalls for the 2022 Nissan Kicks?

As of the provided data, there are no recalls issued for the 2022 Nissan Kicks, despite the 20 complaints detailing various safety-related issues.

How does the 2022 Nissan Kicks perform in crash tests?

The 2022 Nissan Kicks performed well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 4-star Overall safety rating, 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.

What should I look out for if considering a 2022 Nissan Kicks?

If considering a 2022 Nissan Kicks, be aware of potential powertrain issues (stalling, acceleration problems), erratic behavior from the Forward Collision Avoidance system, and steering instability at highway speeds. Thoroughly test drive the vehicle, especially at higher speeds, and inquire about any service history related to these components.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2022 Nissan Kicks has good crash test ratings, the numerous complaints regarding powertrain failures, erratic safety systems, and steering instability suggest potential reliability and safety risks; proceed with caution and consider an extended warranty.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Nissan Kicks

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Nissan Kicks. The data includes 20 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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.