Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2025 Nissan Kicks include electrical issues, labeling errors, and potential safety system malfunctions.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has already been recalled twice, once for incorrect vehicle labeling that may lead to overloading or improper tire inflation, and another involving the electrical system’s failure to trigger a “Shift-to-Park” warning.
Take a look below for more details into 2025 Nissan Kicks problems and recalls.
Common 2025 Nissan Kicks Problems
- Engine: Rough Idling; Engine Stalling; Vehicle Shuts Off While Driving; Lack of Acceleration; Check Engine Light Blinking
- Transmission: CVT Transmission Issues; Jerking or Shuddering During Acceleration; Delayed or Sluggish Shifting; Gear Slippage; Whining, Grinding, or Humming Noises; Transmission Fluid Leak
- Forward Collision Avoidance: Defective Sensors; False Alarms; Sudden Braking
Having Vehicle Problems?
Submit the form below to see if your vehicle qualifies for a lemon law claim.
2025 Nissan Kicks Engine Problems
The 2025 Nissan Kicks may be prone to engine issues like rough idling or unexpected engine stalling. These symptoms are often associated with fuel system problems, such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump.
In a few cases, drivers have said the vehicle shuts off while in motion and doesn’t restart right away, a potentially serious concern that may stem from fuel delivery faults or electronic control issues.
Some owners have also noted hesitation or sluggishness during acceleration. This could be caused by dirty throttle bodies, clogged air filters, or a faulty mass airflow sensor.
A few forum users mentioned the check engine light blinking before the engine is even started. While this may turn out to be a harmless software issue, it raises questions about potential glitches involving engine sensors or the ECU.
Additionally, though technically a transmission issue, the CVT in the 2025 Kicks has been linked to symptoms that can resemble engine problems, including jerking, grinding, or stalling.
These types of problems can make it difficult for drivers to determine whether the engine or the transmission is to blame.
2025 Nissan Kicks Transmission Problems
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has not yet seen a large volume of transmission complaints, but early signs suggest there may be some lingering concerns—particularly with its continuously variable transmission (CVT).
A few drivers have reported a jerking or shuddering sensation during acceleration, which is often linked to the CVT’s behavior under load.
In some cases, this sensation is accompanied by delayed or sluggish shifting, raising questions about fluid health or early transmission wear.
Gear slippage has also been mentioned, with some owners noting that the vehicle unexpectedly shifts out of gear or struggles to stay in gear.
This type of issue can be dangerous if it occurs while driving and may signal internal transmission damage.
Other symptoms include whining, grinding, or humming noises during gear changes, which typically point to worn components or low transmission fluid.
Leaking transmission fluid—usually red or brown—has been cited in a few cases and can lead to overheating or further mechanical issues if left unaddressed.
A burning smell while driving may also indicate overheating fluid, especially if the fluid is old or contaminated.
Although these problems have surfaced, they are not yet widespread in the 2025 model. Many of the complaints appear similar to those seen in earlier model years, particularly between 2018 and 2020, when CVT-related concerns were more prevalent.
Still, it’s wise for owners to monitor the health of their vehicle’s transmission closely. Regularly checking the transmission fluid, watching for early warning signs like hesitation or slippage, and keeping up with Nissan’s recommended service intervals can help prevent larger issues down the line.
2025 Nissan Kicks Forward Collision Avoidance Problems
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has received some early complaints regarding its Forward Collision Avoidance System, although the number of reports remains relatively limited so far.
One of the most concerning issues involves false alarms triggering emergency braking even when there’s no obstacle present. In some cases, this has happened at higher speeds, posing a potential safety risk.
Another issue relates to sensor malfunctions. Owners have reported instances where the system disables itself, often accompanied by a warning message such as “Forward Driving Aids Temporarily Disabled.”
These problems are frequently linked to blocked or obstructed sensors caused by weather conditions, road grime, or even direct sunlight.
Some drivers have also experienced abrupt and unexpected stopping, with the vehicle reacting to nonexistent obstacles due to inaccurate sensor readings—an issue that has reportedly resulted in near misses with vehicles behind.
There have also been complaints about inconsistent dealership responses in regards to this issue. Some service centers have had difficulty identifying the root cause of the problem, with parts being replaced unnecessarily or the issue remaining unresolved after multiple visits.
Despite multiple consumer reports, Nissan has not yet issued an official recall for the forward collision system in the 2025 model. However, similar problems in previous model years were addressed through service bulletins.
While the inclusion of automatic emergency braking is meant to improve safety, lingering concerns from past reliability issues continue to shape consumer perception.
Owners experiencing problems are advised to keep the sensor areas clean, check with their dealer for any software updates or technical bulletins, and document any incidents thoroughly in case further action or warranty support is needed.
What 2025 Kicks Owners Say…
“On the Saturday night of my 5th day with it, a neighbor banged my door down. YOUR CAR IS ON! she yelled. Huh? I turned it off after last using it. I went downstairs to see. The car was eerily silent and there was very little ambient noise. I put my ear to it and heard nothing, felt no vibration. Then I looked at the panel: ON and blaring. It ate 3/4 of a tank of fuel just sitting there for maybe ten hours. Frankly, the experience spooked me. I’m grateful my neighbor saw what was going on. I looked it up and found an admission online that this car does this little trick.”
“CVT transmission went after 5 weeks”
“So, I just rest drove a base model today. Every thing about it was very good. Except for one situation where I couldn’t replicate it. Slowly accelerating to 40mph, there was two strange jerk, either from the engine or the transmission. I slowed back down to 30 mph and accelerated back to 40 mph a couple times and couldn’t replicate it. The sales lady asks if there was something wrong. I told her what I felt and was wondering if it was normal. After the drive I told her I would see her next year to make sure there was no issues that needed to be fixed.”
Lemon Law Rights and Responsibilities
If your 2025 Nissan Kicks has been repeatedly brought in for repair due to mechanical issues—such as transmission problems, engine stalling, or malfunctioning safety systems—you may be eligible for protection under your state’s lemon law.
These consumer protection laws are designed to assist individuals who purchase or lease a new vehicle that suffers from recurring defects which substantially affect its safety, use, or value within the warranty period.
Whether or not your Kicks qualifies typically depends on how many repair attempts have been made for the same issue and how seriously the problem impacts the vehicle’s performance or safety.
If your vehicle meets the legal criteria, you could be entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.
In refund and replacement cases, manufacturers are often allowed to deduct a usage fee based on how many miles the vehicle was driven before the defect was first reported.
If a replacement is offered, you may be responsible for paying any price difference if the new vehicle costs more than the original Kicks.
Most lemon laws also require the manufacturer to pay your attorney’s fees and costs if your claim is successful.
This provision helps level the playing field and allows consumers to assert their rights without bearing the financial burden of legal representation.
If your 2025 Nissan Kicks continues to suffer from the same unresolved issues after multiple visits to the dealership, it may be time to explore your legal options to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Turn Lemons into Lemonade with the Lemon Law Experts
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have been committed to helping drivers resolve lemon law and warranty-related issues.
Our experienced legal team provides personalized support to vehicle owners dealing with persistent problems, working to secure the best possible result—whether that means financial compensation, a replacement vehicle, or another legal remedy.
If you’re dealing with ongoing issues in your 2025 Nissan Kicks and wondering whether it qualifies as a lemon, don’t wait to get the answers you need.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form to get started.
