2025 Nissan Kicks Safety Report

The 2025 Nissan Kicks presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but several concerning issues highlighted by early NHTSA complaint data and recalls. The vehicle achieved an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA, with excellent 5-star performance in side impact tests and a 4-star rollover rating. However, its frontal crash rating is a lower 3 stars, indicating potential areas for improvement in front-end collision protection. Despite its newness, the Kicks has already accumulated 26 NHTSA complaints, including 2 crashes and 1 injury, which is notable for a vehicle in its first model year. Common complaint patterns revolve around steering issues, visibility/wiper problems (including spontaneous windshield cracking and leaks), and back-over prevention system malfunctions. The steering complaints describe issues ranging from the steering wheel moving from a locked position to the vehicle not driving straight and exhibiting dangerous wandering. Several complaints detail windshield cracking and leaking, suggesting a potential manufacturing or installation defect. The back-over prevention system issues, specifically the rearview camera displaying a blank or distorted screen, are directly addressed by one of the three recalls. Nissan has issued three recalls for the 2025 Kicks. One recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V324000) addresses the back-over prevention system, where the rearview image may not display, increasing crash risk. Another recall concerns incorrect Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label, which could lead to an overloaded vehicle or improperly inflated tires, increasing crash risk. The third recall addresses a 'Shift-to-Park' warning malfunction, where the vehicle could roll away unexpectedly if not properly in park. These recalls, combined with the early complaint data, suggest some initial quality control challenges for this model.

Our recommendation: Given the early recalls and a notable number of complaints for a new model, prospective buyers should thoroughly research specific VINs for recall completion and pay close attention to steering, windshield integrity, and rearview camera function during a test drive. Consider waiting for initial quality issues to be resolved through subsequent model years or additional recalls.