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2018 Nissan Kicks Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis
2018 Nissan Kicks Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent fuel economy, with a combined 33 MPG, keeps running costs low.
  • A single recall addressed a back-up camera malfunction; verify this repair is complete.
  • Numerous TSBs suggest potential, though unspecified, issues that warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
  • The 1.6-liter engine and CVT transmission prioritize efficiency, not spirited driving.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Nissan Kicks

The 2018 Nissan Kicks presents itself as an economical subcompact crossover, prioritizing fuel efficiency and urban maneuverability over outright performance. Its straightforward design and front-wheel-drive layout make it a practical choice for daily commuting. While it boasts excellent EPA fuel economy ratings, potential buyers should be aware of a notable number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that suggest underlying issues may exist, even in the absence of owner complaints. One recall campaign targeted the back-up camera system.

Critical Failure Risk

The backup camera system may become inoperative due to adjustable settings, failing to display the rear-view image. This was the subject of a single recall campaign.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
33
MPG
City
31
MPG
Highway
36
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.5/ 10

Practicality

7.4/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking maximum fuel efficiency on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers demanding strong acceleration or engaging driving dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Nissan Kicks Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Nissan Kicks.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
33

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Most Common Issues

1. Backup Camera Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $75 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Nissan Kicks reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Nissan Kicks is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Nissan Kicks for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 7.4/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 716 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Nissan Kicks is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Practicality 7.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Backup Camera System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $400).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

Base MSRP is $18,290.

What engine is in the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2018 Nissan Kicks use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Kicks, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

7 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Kicks, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Kicks, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Nissan Kicks use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Nissan Kicks, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Nissan Kicks?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda HR-V and 2018 Toyota C-HR.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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