NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Nissan Kicks
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV that slots below the Rogue in Nissan's lineup, targeting budget-conscious urban drivers and first-time SUV buyers who want a fuel-efficient, maneuverable vehicle without a steep price tag. Sold in the United States since the 2018 model year, the Kicks competes in one of the most crowded segments in the market, where safety credentials increasingly matter to shoppers.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Nissan Kicks as a practical, easy-to-drive entry in the subcompact crossover segment, praising its upright seating position and urban usability. Most professional assessments note that the Kicks prioritizes everyday accessibility over outright performance, and they tend to view its safety technology offerings as competitive for the price point, though not always class-leading.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15536
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM23V496000
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code and replace the steering column assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA26. This recall involves vehicles that were previously inspected, but did not receive a st
Reported 2023-07-18
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM22V693000
Risk: Loss of power steering assist can increase the steering effort required, especially at low speeds, and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering column torque sensor lot code, and replace the column, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 9, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PMA10 / PMA25.
Reported 2022-09-15
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
70 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.