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2019 Nissan Kicks

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2019 Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV known for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior for its class, and affordable price point. It comes exclusively with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praise its comfortable ride, easy maneuverability, and impressive cargo space. Common complaints include the lack of all-wheel drive, the engine’s limited power, and the somewhat basic interior materials.

Engine

1.6L I4

  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause the check engine light to come on, rough idling, reduced power, and poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the cause (spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors) and replacing the faulty component(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, illuminated check engine light (typically code P0420), rattling noises from underneath the vehicle, and potential failure to pass emissions tests.
    • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EVAP System Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, fuel smell, and potential difficulty filling the gas tank.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the leak (fuel cap, hoses, purge valve, vent valve, charcoal canister).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source and complexity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

  • CVT Juddering/Shaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or juddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is slipping or hesitating.
    • Solution: CVT fluid change might provide temporary relief. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: CVT fluid change: $200 - $400, Valve body replacement: $800 - $1500, Transmission replacement: $3000 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • CVT Whining Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable whining sound coming from the transmission area, especially during acceleration. The noise may increase with speed.
    • Solution: Could be due to worn internal components or low fluid. Often requires transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • CVT Hesitation or Delay
    • Description/Symptoms: A delay in response when accelerating, particularly from a stop or when trying to pass another vehicle.
    • Solution: A software update may improve responsiveness. However, more severe cases may indicate internal wear or damage, leading to transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $200, Transmission replacement: $3000 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Premature Strut/Shock Absorber Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and clunking noises when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacing worn struts or shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle (front or rear).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Backup Camera Failure/Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera. The screen may display a distorted image, a black screen, or an error message.
    • Solution: Check camera connections. Replacing the camera unit or addressing wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash, requiring a restart.
    • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update $0-200; Replacement $500-$1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Hood
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots that are bubbling under the paint, particularly around the front of the hood and around the emblem.
    • Solution: Sanding the affected area and repainting, or replacing the hood entirely if rust is widespread and deep.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sanding and Repainting $300-$700; Hood Replacement $500-$1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear in the dashboard, especially in warmer climates or with prolonged sun exposure.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement, or using a dashboard cover as a temporary solution.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Cover $50-200; Replacement $800-$1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2019 Nissan Kicks, while generally reliable, has some common issues. The most concerning are related to the CVT transmission, which can experience juddering, whining, and hesitation, potentially leading to costly replacement. Engine issues such as misfires and catalytic converter failures can also arise. The suspension may require attention due to premature wear of struts/shocks, and electrical glitches with the backup camera and infotainment system can be frustrating. Rust on the hood and dashboard cracking are also common. While some issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes, others, like transmission replacement, can be quite expensive. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Kicks, paying particular attention to the transmission’s performance.

Nissan, Kicks
Nissan Kicks 2019
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