2020 Nissan Kicks

The 2020 Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV known for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and distinctive styling. It comes standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). What people like about the Kicks includes its spacious interior for its class, its abundance of standard features, and its nimble handling in city driving. Common dislikes include the lack of all-wheel drive, the somewhat underpowered engine, and the occasionally noisy CVT.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4 (HR16DE)

• Engine Misfires/Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, check engine light illuminated. Could be related to faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased fuel efficiency, rotten egg smell, and potential failure to pass emissions tests.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Juddering/Shaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, shaking, or juddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can be caused by degraded CVT fluid or internal wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the CVT fluid per the manufacturer’s recommended interval. In severe cases, a CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid change: $200-$400. CVT Replacement: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable whining noise from the transmission area, especially during acceleration. This indicates potential internal wear.
  • Solution: Can sometimes be mitigated by a CVT fluid change. If the noise persists, transmission replacement is usually recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid change: $200-$400. CVT Replacement: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, and leaking fluid from the strut/shock assembly.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Try a system reset. If the problem persists, a software update or replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (if available): $0 - $100. Infotainment unit replacement: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera display is distorted, shows a black screen, or fails to activate when the vehicle is put into reverse.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the camera itself is faulty, it needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary:

The 2020 Nissan Kicks generally exhibits issues common to its class, with the CVT being a primary area of concern due to potential juddering, whining, and eventual failure. Engine issues appear to be less frequent but can involve costly repairs like catalytic converter replacement. Electrical issues related to the infotainment system and backup camera are also reported. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, CVT replacements can be a significant expense, making regular maintenance and fluid changes crucial.