Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Nissan
  6. /
  7. Kicks
Nissan · Known Issues

2019 Nissan Kicks Problems: 7 Known Issues

2019 model year · 1,140+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2019 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo

2018 Nissan Kicks SR silhouette · representative artwork, not equipment confirmation

Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,140+ owner reports, the 2019 Nissan Kicks has 7 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Rearview Camera Image Disappears / Stays Off (AV Control Unit Recall 19V654) and Engine Stalling / Shutting Off While Driving (Throttle Body, MAF Sensor, ECM Software). The most commonly reported issue is CVT Overheating During Highway Driving with 450 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Kicks Engine2
  • Kicks Safety/Recalls1
  • Kicks Transmission2
  • Kicks Electrical1
  • Kicks Brakes1
  • Recalls7
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Transmission2
  • Electrical1
  • Brakes1
  • Recalls7
  • FAQ

All 7 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS202620252024202320222021202020192018

On the 2018-2020 Nissan Kicks, many 2018-2020 Kicks owners report the engine stalling or shutting off, often when slowing to a stop and in some cases at speed, sometimes with a delayed restart. Dealers and forums commonly trace it to the throttle body, a contaminated mass airflow (MAF) sensor, or outdated ECM software; throttle-body replacement and ECM reprogramming have resolved repeat cases. RepairPal documents engine-stalling as a recognized Kicks complaint, frequently alongside DTC P0101.

This issue also affects: Nissan 240SX, Nissan Sentra, Nissan Versa

Common Symptoms

  • Engine dies at idle or when coming to a stop
  • Vehicle shuts off while driving
  • Hard or delayed restart after a stall
  • Rough idle, possible check engine light

How to Fix

Have the dealer scan for stored codes (commonly P0101) and check for applicable ECM reprogramming before replacing parts. Common fixes include cleaning or replacing the MAF sensor, replacing the throttle body and gasket, and applying the latest ECM software update.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan mass-air-flow sensor 22680-5RB0A

    Confirm VIN and current supersession before ordering.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan throttle chamber assembly 16119-5RL0A

    Confirm VIN, gasket 16175-5RB0A and relearn requirements.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
310 owners

On the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks HR16DE, the Kicks HR16DE 1.6L engine produces excessive noise and vibration that transmits into the cabin, particularly at highway RPMs where the CVT holds the engine at 3,000-4,000 RPM. The lack of sound insulation and the CVT's tendency to keep RPMs high under load amplifies the issue.

This issue also affects: Infiniti QX55, Infiniti QX60, Nissan Altima

Common Symptoms

  • Loud engine drone at highway speeds
  • Excessive vibration felt in steering wheel and seats
  • Engine noise louder than expected
  • Resonance at 2,500-3,500 RPM

How to Fix

Check engine and transmission mounts for wear. Add sound deadening material to firewall and floor ($100-300 DIY). Some owners report improvement after dealer applies ECM calibration update that adjusts CVT shift points to lower cruising RPM.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Dynamat Xtreme Bulk Pak 10455

    Universal 36-square-foot sheet pack, not a Kicks precut kit. Measure the intended floor/firewall/door areas and preserve drains, wiring, airbags, fasteners, ventilation and service access.

    Dynamat

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 310 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence310 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2018-2019 Nissan Kicks, nHTSA recall 19V654 and Nissan campaign R1911 apply to certain 2018-2019 Kicks vehicles. The AV control-unit software can retain a driver-adjusted display setting that prevents the rearview image from returning at the start of a later reverse event, failing the rear-visibility requirement. Eligibility is VIN-specific within a broader Nissan and Infiniti population.

Common Symptoms

  • VIN checked for 19V654/R1911
  • retained display-setting behavior documented
  • software condition separated from camera, display, power and wiring faults

How to Fix

Check the VIN for 19V654/R1911. Nissan dealers reprogram the AV control unit so the rearview image returns at the beginning of each backing event at no charge; the campaign bulletin lists a 0.2-hour operation. Do not buy a camera, AV control unit, display, wiring harness or software product from this page; recall eligibility and the official reprogramming remedy must be confirmed first.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
450 owners

On the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks 1.6L, the Nissan Kicks CVT transmission (Jatco CVT7 W/R) overheats during sustained highway driving, particularly in hot weather or hilly terrain. The transmission enters limp mode to protect itself, limiting speed to 40-50 mph. The small displacement 1.6L engine forces the CVT to work harder at highway speeds, contributing to heat buildup.

This issue also affects: Infiniti QX55, Infiniti QX60, Nissan Altima

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission overheating warning on dash
  • Vehicle enters limp mode on highway
  • Reduced power and speed limit
  • CVT whining noise under load
  • Jerky shifting during hot weather

How to Fix

Ensure CVT fluid is fresh with Nissan NS-3 (change every 30,000 miles). Avoid sustained high-speed driving in extreme heat. Some owners install auxiliary transmission coolers ($150-300 DIY). If overheating is chronic, TCM software update may be available at dealer.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid 999MP-CSHNS3

    Confirm VIN, current fluid part number, quantity and service-manual temperature/level procedure; do not flush or present fluid as a repair for damaged internals.

    Chapman Nissan Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 450 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence450 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2018-2025 Nissan Kicks, the Kicks' CVT produces excessive drone and noise at highway speeds (60-75 MPH). The CVT holds high RPMs (3,500-4,000) for highway cruising due to the small 1.6L engine's limited torque, creating a constant loud droning noise in the cabin. This is partly a design characteristic of the powertrain but is significantly louder than competitors. Sound deadening in the Kicks is minimal.

Common Symptoms

  • Loud droning noise at highway speeds
  • Engine RPMs stay high at 60-75 MPH
  • Difficult to hold conversation at highway speed
  • Wind and road noise excessive
  • CVT holds RPMs at 3,500-4,000 cruising

How to Fix

This is largely a design characteristic that cannot be fully eliminated. Aftermarket sound deadening material (Dynamat or similar) applied to the doors, floor, and firewall can reduce interior noise by 3-5 dB ($200-$500 DIY). Higher-quality tires designed for low road noise (Michelin Defender, Continental TrueContact) also help. Some owners report slightly lower RPMs and noise after a CVT fluid change.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Dynamat Xtreme Bulk Pak 10455

    Universal 36-square-foot sheet pack, not a Kicks precut kit. Measure coverage and install only on clean safe sheet metal without blocking drains, wiring, airbags, fasteners, ventilation or service access.

    Dynamat

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipThe Kicks is noisy by design — small engine + CVT + minimal sound deadening. Two sheets of Dynamat on the floor and doors makes a noticeable improvement. Budget $200 DIY for a weekend project.
Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
380 owners

On the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks 1.6L, the Nissan Kicks has widespread complaints about weak air conditioning performance, especially in temperatures above 90F. The undersized A/C system struggles to cool the cabin adequately. Nissan issued TSB NTB19-041 addressing A/C performance concerns. The issue is partially due to the small compressor paired with the 1.6L engine.

Common Symptoms

  • A/C not cooling adequately in hot weather
  • A/C takes very long to cool cabin
  • Warm air from vents at idle
  • A/C cycles on and off frequently

How to Fix

Verify refrigerant charge is correct (do not overfill). Check A/C condenser for debris blocking airflow. Dealer may apply TSB NTB19-041 software update to optimize compressor operation. Some owners add tinted windows or a cabin air recirculation fix to improve cooling.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 380 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence380 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2018-2025 Nissan Kicks 1.6L HR16DE I4, the Kicks uses rear drum brakes (a cost-saving measure) that develop squealing, grinding, and poor performance from brake dust accumulation. The semi-sealed drum design traps dust and debris, causing noise and inconsistent braking. The issue is worse in dusty or wet environments. The drums also warp easily, causing a pulsation felt through the brake pedal.

Common Symptoms

  • Squealing or squeaking from rear brakes
  • Grinding noise when braking
  • Brake pedal pulsation
  • Poor rear braking performance
  • Noise worse in wet or dusty conditions

How to Fix

Remove rear drums and clean all components with brake cleaner. Inspect shoes for glazing and contamination — sand the shoe surface lightly with 120-grit sandpaper if glazed. Check drums for scoring and measure for out-of-round (max 0.006"). Replace shoes and drums if worn. Apply brake grease to the backing plate contact points. Clean rear brakes every 20,000 miles as preventive maintenance.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan Kicks rear brake-shoe set D4060-5RFMA

    Confirm VIN and rear drum configuration; do not use for a rear-disc vehicle or the redesigned 2025 Kicks.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan Kicks rear brake drum 43206-5RB0B

    Sold individually; confirm VIN, brake type, quantity and service-manual limits.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipPull the rear drums off yearly and blow out the dust with brake cleaner. The sealed drum design traps everything inside. A 30-minute cleaning prevents the squealing that plagues these brakes.
Typical repair cost:$50 - $300

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls7 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.

Campaign #24V15400027/02/2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Kicks vehicles. The "Shift-to-Park" warning may not activate as intended when the vehicle is shut off and still in a gear other than "Park." As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

Campaign #24V96900023/12/2024

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Kicks vehicles. The certification label may have been printed with the incorrect Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) values, which can result in the vehicle being overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification." Additionally, certain 2025 Nissan Kicks SR trim level vehicles equipped with an optional 19-inch wheel package may have a certification label that states an incorrect wheel size. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Nissan Kicks problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Nissan Kicks. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

Other Nissan Models

Nissan Rogue46Nissan Altima41Nissan Sentra32Nissan Frontier30Nissan Pathfinder24Nissan Murano22

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan Kicks problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,140+ owner reports, the 2019 Nissan Kicks has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rearview Camera Image Disappears / Stays Off (AV Control Unit Recall 19V654), Engine Stalling / Shutting Off While Driving (Throttle Body, MAF Sensor, ECM Software), CVT Overheating During Highway Driving. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Nissan Kicks reliable?

The 2019 Nissan Kicks has 7 known issues documented across 1,140+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Rearview Camera Image Disappears / Stays Off (AV Control Unit Recall 19V654) and Engine Stalling / Shutting Off While Driving (Throttle Body, MAF Sensor, ECM Software). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Kicks problems?

Repair costs for known Nissan Kicks issues range from $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2018-2019 Nissan Kicks Rearview Camera Image Disappears / Stays Off (AV Control Unit Recall 19V654)?

NHTSA recall 19V654 and Nissan campaign R1911 apply to certain 2018-2019 Kicks vehicles. The AV control-unit software can retain a driver-adjusted display setting that prevents the rearview image from returning at the start of a later reverse event, failing the rear-visibility re… Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2020 Nissan Kicks Engine Stalling / Shutting Off While Driving (Throttle Body, MAF Sensor, ECM Software)?

Many 2018-2020 Kicks owners report the engine stalling or shutting off, often when slowing to a stop and in some cases at speed, sometimes with a delayed restart. Dealers and forums commonly trace it to the throttle body, a contaminated mass airflow (MAF) sensor, or outdated ECM… Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 1,140+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #25V18800018/04/2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Frontier and Kicks vehicles. The center information display unit may display a blank screen when shifted into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Campaign #25V32400004/06/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Kicks vehicles. A software error in the combination meter may cause the screen display to go partially or fully blank. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."

Campaign #26V33100021/05/2026

+ 2 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks CVT Overheating During Highway Driving?

The Nissan Kicks CVT transmission (Jatco CVT7 W/R) overheats during sustained highway driving, particularly in hot weather or hilly terrain. The transmission enters limp mode to protect itself, limiting speed to 40-50 mph. The small displacement 1.6L engine forces the CVT to work… Repairs typically run $150-$3,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks Weak A/C Performance in Hot Weather?

The Nissan Kicks has widespread complaints about weak air conditioning performance, especially in temperatures above 90F. The undersized A/C system struggles to cool the cabin adequately. Nissan issued TSB NTB19-041 addressing A/C performance concerns. The issue is partially due… Repairs typically run $0-$500. Severity: low.

What is the 2018-2024 Nissan Kicks Excessive Engine Noise and Vibration (HR16DE)?

The Kicks HR16DE 1.6L engine produces excessive noise and vibration that transmits into the cabin, particularly at highway RPMs where the CVT holds the engine at 3,000-4,000 RPM. The lack of sound insulation and the CVT's tendency to keep RPMs high under load amplifies the issue. Repairs typically run $0-$500. Severity: low.

What is the 2018-2025 Nissan Kicks CVT Drone and Noise at Highway Speeds?

The Kicks' CVT produces excessive drone and noise at highway speeds (60-75 MPH). The CVT holds high RPMs (3,500-4,000) for highway cruising due to the small 1.6L engine's limited torque, creating a constant loud droning noise in the cabin. This is partly a design characteristic o… Repairs typically run $0-$500. Severity: low.

What is the 2018-2025 Nissan Kicks Rear Drum Brake Squeal and Dust Contamination?

The Kicks uses rear drum brakes (a cost-saving measure) that develop squealing, grinding, and poor performance from brake dust accumulation. The semi-sealed drum design traps dust and debris, causing noise and inconsistent braking. The issue is worse in dusty or wet environments. Repairs typically run $50-$300. Severity: low.