NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 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 2026 Nissan Kicks earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 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 21078
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL26V331000
Risk: A partial or blank screen display will not show critical safety information such as vehicle speed and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the combination meter software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 1, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA66. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 22, 2026.
Reported 2026-05-21
SEATS26V145000
Risk: A loose seat may not restrain the occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front seat assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA64. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 13, 2026.
Reported 2026-03-13
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH26V023000
Risk: A door that opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion increases the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the door strikers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD185 and PMA61. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 28, 2026.
Reported 2026-01-21
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
3 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.