2019 Nissan Kicks Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2019 Nissan Kicks
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the back over prevention: sensing system: camera.
- Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2020 Nissan Kicks earns a 87.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2019 Nissan Kicks?
The 2019 Nissan Kicks represents a compelling value proposition for urban dwellers, offering exceptional fuel economy and nimble handling. While its 1.6L engine is robust, the critical factor in its long-term reliability hinges almost entirely on the health and proper maintenance of its Xtronic CVT transmission, which requires proactive care to ensure a long service life.
The 2019 Nissan Kicks offers an attractive package of fuel efficiency and practicality at a great price, making it a strong contender for urban commuters. However, its Achilles' heel remains the Xtronic CVT. If you're diligent about proactive transmission fluid changes and secure a model with a clean service history…
Best Model Years
2019-2023 (while the CVT is a consistent factor across all years, later models benefit from any minor running changes and generally improved software)
Years to Avoid
None specifically, as the CVT is the primary concern for all Kicks models in this generation. Avoid models with no transmission service history.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional fuel efficiency for a subcompact SUV
- Comfortable ride and nimble handling in urban environments
- Robust and generally trouble-free 1.6L HR16DE engine
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2019 Nissan Kicks, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The Jatco-supplied Xtronic CVT (JF015E) is prone to shuddering, hesitation, and eventual failure. Issues often stem from fluid degradation, valve body problems, or internal bearing wear, leading to complete transmission replacement if ne…
Owners frequently report issues with the infotainment system, including freezing screens, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and intermittent backup camera malfunctions. Minor sensor failures are also occasionally reported.
While generally durable, some owners have reported premature wear or noise from front suspension components such as strut mounts, bearings, or sway bar links, particularly when driven on rougher roads.
2019 Nissan Kicks Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2019 Nissan Kicks most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Kicks should still be under its factory warranty for most major components. Focus on regular oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin air filter replacements. This is typically a trouble-free period.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks the critical interval for proactive CVT fluid replacement. Neglecting this service can significantly shorten the transmission's lifespan. Also expect routine wear items like brakes and tires to need attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90,000 miles, the risk of CVT issues escalates if maintenance hasn't been diligent. Other components like wheel bearings, starter motor, or alternator could also begin to show wear. Electrical gremlins may become more frequent.
High Risk Zone
This mileage range represents a significant gamble without a detailed service history. The original CVT is living on borrowed time without multiple fluid changes. Expect a higher frequency of age-related failures across various systems.
2019 Nissan Kicks Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2019 Nissan Kicks on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2019 Nissan Kicks Last?
For maximum longevity, aim to acquire a 2019 Kicks with a verified service history, particularly concerning its CVT fluid changes. Owners should plan for proactive CVT fluid service every 30,000-40,000 miles, regardless of Nissan's 'inspection-only' guidelines.
What 2019 Nissan Kicks Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Outstanding fuel economy (30+ MPG combined is common)
- Surprisingly spacious interior and cargo capacity for its subcompact size
- Very easy to maneuver and park in tight city spaces
- Comfortable ride quality, soaking up most road imperfections
Common Frustrations
- Underpowered engine, especially noticeable on highway merges or inclines
- CVT drone and noise, particularly under acceleration
- Excessive road and wind noise at highway speeds
- Interior uses a lot of hard plastics, feeling somewhat cheap in places
Who Should Buy the 2019 Nissan Kicks?
Best For
- First-time car buyers or young drivers
- Urban commuters prioritizing fuel efficiency and maneuverability
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking new-car features at a lower price point
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts or those who frequently drive long distances at high speeds
- Drivers who frequently carry heavy loads or require towing capacity
How the 2019 Nissan Kicks Compares to Rivals
The Kicks punches above its weight in features and style for its price but falls short of top-tier Japanese rivals like Honda and Toyota in proven powertrain longevity due to its CVT.
More Reliable Than
- Chevrolet Trax (due to better fuel economy and less severe transmission concerns)
- Ford EcoSport (often perceived as having more quality control issues)
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (for refinement and interior quality)
Comparable To
- Hyundai Venue (similar urban focus, economy, and price point)
- Kia Soul (similar segment, although Soul offers more powerful engine options)
- Toyota C-HR (similar style and urban focus, but C-HR's CVT is generally more robust)
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 2019 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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Kicks. Click any year for its full report.
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