2018 Nissan Kicks Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2018 Nissan Kicks?
The 2018 Nissan Kicks delivers outstanding fuel economy and a practical, city-friendly package, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious drivers. However, its continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a known weak spot and demands diligent maintenance and careful inspection to avoid potentially costly failures. If you prioritize economy and are prepared for proactive CVT care, this vehicle can be a great value; otherwise, proceed with significant caution.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional fuel economy for its class
- Spacious and practical interior despite compact size
- Affordable purchase and ownership costs (excluding major CVT repairs)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2018 Nissan Kicks. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What breaks on the 2018 Nissan Kicks?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Kicks by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Nissan Kicks. Click any year for its full report.
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Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 2018 Nissan Kicks
Parts and accessories matched to your 2018 Nissan Kicks
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Frequently Asked Questions
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