By Finn Hart The 2020 Nissan Kicks presents several notable problems, primarily involving the transmission, electrical system, and suspension. Owners report issues such as jerking during gear shifts, infotainment glitches, and suspension noises, with satisfaction rates ranging from 60% to 75%. Recalls address crucial safety concerns, including fuel pump failures and airbag malfunctions; free repairs are available. Regular maintenance, including oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles, enhances reliability. Though the Kicks retains about 60% of its value after three years, it faces challenges with engine power under full load. Insightful details on these aspects await further exploration.
Overview of the 2020 Kicks
What makes the 2020 Nissan Kicks stand out in the small SUV market? It combines style, efficiency, and technology in a unique way. Priced starting at about $19,000, it offers a good choice for those watching their budget but wanting a versatile vehicle.
The Kicks has a modern look, with a bold front grille and sleek shape. Two-tone color options add to its appeal, making it a popular choice against competitors like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3.
It runs on a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, providing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This engine works with a continuously variable transmission, helping it achieve great fuel efficiency. It gets about 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, which is better than many similar vehicles.
Inside, there's plenty of space. The cabin offers 25.3 cubic feet for cargo, and if you fold the rear seats down, it expands to 53.1 cubic feet.
The car's infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
Safety features include automatic emergency braking, with more advanced options available.
The 2020 Nissan Kicks offers a mix of style, practicality, and modern tech, making it a strong choice in the small SUV category.
Common problems reported for the 2020 Kicks
The 2020 Nissan Kicks has several common issues reported by owners. Here's a breakdown of the problems by vehicle component or system:
Transmission
- Problem: Jerking or slipping during gear shifts
- Frequency: Moderate
- Trend: Stable
- How It Feels: Jolting during gear changes
- Effect: Less comfortable driving
- Satisfaction: 70% of owners are somewhat satisfied
Electrical System
- Problem: Infotainment system glitches
- Frequency: High
- Trend: Increasing
- How It Feels: Screen freezes and controls don't respond
- Effect: Can be distracting and risky
- Satisfaction: 60%
Suspension
- Problem: Noise from the front suspension
- Frequency: Moderate
- Trend: Increasing
- How It Feels: Clunking or rattling sounds
- Effect: Lower ride quality
- Satisfaction: 65%
Engine
- Problem: Reduced power or acceleration
- Frequency: Moderate
- Trend: Stable
- How It Feels: Hesitation and warning lights
- Effect: Affects performance
- Satisfaction: 68%
Braking System
- Problem: Brake pedal feel
- Frequency: Low
- Trend: Stable
- How It Feels: Soft feel or pulsation
- Effect: Can affect stopping power
- Satisfaction: 75%
Climate Control
- Problem: Uneven cabin temperature
- Frequency: Moderate
- Trend: Increasing
- How It Feels: Uneven heating or cooling, strange odors
- Effect: Affects comfort
- Satisfaction: 62%
Fuel System
- Problem: Fuel gauge inaccuracies
- Frequency: Low
- Trend: Stable
- How It Feels: Incorrect fuel level readings
- Effect: Risk of running out of fuel
- Satisfaction: 70%
Recall information specific to the 2020 Kicks
The 2020 Nissan Kicks has had several recalls due to safety and performance issues. These recalls affect how the car works and keeps drivers safe. It's important for owners to know about these problems so they can keep their cars safe and up to date.
Here are the main recalls for the 2020 Nissan Kicks:
- Seatbelt Problems: Some cars have faulty seatbelts, which might not protect people in a crash.
- Fuel Pump Issues: Some vehicles have fuel pumps that can fail, causing the engine to stall and possibly leading to accidents.
- Airbag Troubles: There are reports of problems with the airbags in certain models, which might not work in an accident.
- Brake System Flaws: Some Kicks have a brake system defect that can make it take longer to stop, increasing the chance of a crash.
Nissan is fixing these problems through official recalls. Owners can check their VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for the latest recall information.
Nissan dealerships will fix these issues for free. Staying informed about these recalls helps drivers keep their cars safe.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2020 model
After fixing the major recalls for the 2020 Nissan Kicks, let's look at what owners think about how it drives and how happy they are with it. Some owners have mixed feelings about their Kicks. A survey of 2020 Kicks owners shows about 78% are satisfied. This means many like some features, though there are still concerns.
Owners like the Kicks for its fuel efficiency. It gets about 31 miles per gallon, which makes it a good choice for daily driving. The roomy interior and big cargo space also get good reviews. These features are often seen as a plus compared to other small SUVs.
However, not all feedback is good. Some owners aren't happy with how the car performs. They feel the 1.6-liter engine with 122 horsepower doesn't have enough power. This especially shows when the car is full.
The infotainment system is easy to use but lacks some modern tech features found in similar cars.
As for reliability, the 2020 Kicks does okay. There are few mechanical problems after the recall. People considering buying the car should think about what's most important to them, like performance, tech features, and space.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Kicks model years
The 2020 Nissan Kicks offers some upgrades over the 2019 model. It has a better infotainment system with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features make it easier to use and connect than the simpler setup in the 2019 version.
For safety, the 2020 Kicks comes with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard on all models. This includes automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The 2019 model didn't have these standard across all trims, making the 2020 version a safer option.
The 2021 Kicks keeps the technology and safety features from 2020. It also gets a new look with some exterior updates and more color choices.
Fuel efficiency stays strong, with the 2020 model getting 31 mpg combined according to the EPA.
Tips for buying a used 2020 Kicks
When looking at a used 2020 Nissan Kicks, it's good to know what to check. This small SUV is known for its style, efficiency, and tech features. Still, there are some things you should look into before buying.
First, check the car's overall shape. Look for any signs of damage inside and out. Make sure the mileage matches the car's age. A close look can show hidden problems.
Next, go through the car's service records. A well-kept history means the past owner took care of it. Check for any recalls or service updates for the 2020 Kicks.
Then, take the car for a test drive. See how it handles, brakes, and speeds up. Listen for odd sounds and test the infotainment system. These checks can tell you a lot about how the car runs.
Also, keep these points in mind:
- Warranty Coverage: Find out if the car is still under the original warranty or if you can get an extended one.
- Market Value: Look up prices in your area to make sure you're paying a fair price.
- Insurance Costs: Get some quotes to see how much insurance will cost for the 2020 Kicks.
- Fuel Efficiency: This model has good gas mileage; check the EPA ratings for the trim you are looking at.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2020 Kicks
Taking good care of your 2020 Nissan Kicks helps it run well and last longer. Stick to these maintenance tasks:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
Change the oil regularly to keep the engine working smoothly. Use synthetic oil for better lubrication. Rotate the tires to avoid uneven wear, which helps them last longer and improves handling. Check the brakes often to ensure they work properly.
Also, regularly check fluid levels, like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Make sure windshield wipers and lights are working well for safety. Keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressure to save fuel and improve performance.
Follow these steps to keep your Nissan Kicks running smoothly and reduce the chance of unexpected repairs. Check the owner's manual for more details specific to your driving habits.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When thinking about buying a car, many people consider how much they can sell it for later and what it will cost to own in the long run. The Nissan Kicks, a small SUV, is known for being affordable and having good features. However, it's good to think about how it will affect your wallet over time.
The resale value of a car depends on things like how well-known the brand is, how much people want it, and how reliable it is. The Nissan Kicks usually keeps its value better than other small SUVs. Reports say it keeps about 60% of its original price after three years. This is better than cars like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3.
Owning a car for a long time means thinking about costs like fixing it, insurance, and gas. The Kicks uses fuel well, getting around 31 miles per gallon. This means spending less on gas. Also, the cost to maintain it each year is about $400, which is less than what most people pay on average.
Below is a table that shows some key details about the Nissan Kicks and how it compares to similar cars:
| Metric | Nissan Kicks | Honda HR-V | Mazda CX-3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Year Resale Value Retention | 60% | 58% | 55% |
| Average Annual Maintenance Cost | $400 | $450 | $500 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG Combined) | 31 | 28 | 27 |
People Also Ask
What Are the Best Aftermarket Accessories for the 2020 Kicks?
For the 2020 Nissan Kicks, some good aftermarket accessories are all-weather floor mats to keep it clean, custom seat covers for style, roof racks to carry extra things, and better audio systems for great music while driving.
How Do I Troubleshoot Dashboard Warning Lights on My Kicks?
To fix dashboard warning lights on your Kicks, first look at the car's manual to understand what the lights mean. Check if the car drives differently, look at fluid levels, and use a special tool called an OBD-II scanner to find problems.
Is the 2020 Kicks Suitable for Winter Driving Conditions?
The 2020 Nissan Kicks is okay for winter driving because it has traction control and stability help. But, since it's front-wheel drive, it might not be as good in really bad weather as cars with all-wheel drive.
What Common Modifications Do Owners Make to the Kicks?
People often change their Nissan Kicks by making the suspension better for smoother rides, putting on new wheels to make the car look cooler, adding roof racks to carry more stuff, and upgrading the speakers for better music while driving.
Are There Any Known Issues With the Kicks' Infotainment System?
Yes, the Nissan Kicks' infotainment system may sometimes have problems. These include trouble with Bluetooth connections and slow touchscreen response. Updating the software regularly can help fix these issues and make it work better.