Nissan kicks Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
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Nissan Kicks Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs

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The Nissan Kicks is a compact crossover SUV designed for affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Although it has not been officially sold in the UK, a number of imports are now on the market. While the Kicks is generally reliable, it does come with some known faults that can become expensive if ignored. This guide breaks down the most common Nissan Kicks problems along with real-world UK repair costs to help you make an informed decision.

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1. CVT Transmission Issues

What it is:
The Nissan Kicks uses a CVT gearbox that is smooth when working properly, but it can become unreliable without regular maintenance. Common problems include hesitation, shuddering, and in some cases, complete failure.

Symptoms:

  • Jerky acceleration
  • Delay when pressing the throttle
  • Warning lights or transmission fault codes

Repair cost in the UK:

  • CVT fluid service: £150 to £250
  • Valve body replacement: £600 to £900
  • Complete gearbox replacement: £2,000 to £3,000
  • Typical total: £150 to £3,000

2. Air Conditioning Failure

What it is:
A frequent issue on early models is failure of the air conditioning compressor or leaks in the AC system.

Symptoms:

  • AC only blows warm air
  • Clicking sound when the system activates
  • AC stops working on long drives

Repair cost in the UK:

  • AC regas: £60 to £100
  • Compressor replacement: £400 to £600
  • Condenser replacement: £250 to £400
  • Typical total: £300 to £800

3. Poor Throttle Response

What it is:
Delayed or sluggish throttle response is often caused by carbon buildup in the throttle body or faulty sensors such as the MAF (mass airflow) or TPS (throttle position sensor).

Symptoms:

  • Sluggish acceleration
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Stalling at idle

Repair cost in the UK:

  • Throttle body cleaning: £80 to £150
  • Sensor replacement: £60 to £120
  • Labour: £80 to £120
  • Typical total: £150 to £300

4. Suspension Knocking and Wear

What it is:
Control arms and bushings can wear out early, especially on vehicles driven on poor roads or carrying heavy loads.

Symptoms:

  • Clunking noises from the front or rear
  • Uneven tyre wear
  • Steering pull or vibration

Repair cost in the UK:

  • Control arms: £100 to £200 per side
  • Bushings: £40 to £70
  • Labour: £150 to £250
  • Typical total: £200 to £450

5. Brake System Vibration or Fade

What it is:
Warped brake discs and worn pads can lead to vibration through the pedal or reduced braking performance. This is more common on cars that are driven in heavy city traffic.

Symptoms:

  • Vibration when braking
  • Squealing or grinding sounds
  • Longer stopping distance

Repair cost in the UK:

  • Front discs and pads: £200 to £300
  • Rear brakes: £150 to £250
  • Brake fluid flush: £60 to £100
  • Typical total: £200 to £500

6. Electrical and Infotainment Problems

What it is:
Infotainment bugs and minor electrical faults such as battery drain or software crashes have been reported in multiple owner forums.

Symptoms:

  • Frozen touchscreen
  • Bluetooth connection fails
  • Battery discharges overnight

Repair cost in the UK:

  • System software update or reset: £60 to £120
  • Battery replacement: £90 to £150
  • Diagnostic labour: £80 to £120
  • Typical total: £150 to £300

7. Interior Rattles and Build Quality Issues

What it is:
The Kicks has been criticised for interior rattles and lower build quality on certain trims. Most of these issues are minor but irritating over time.

Symptoms:

  • Rattling over bumps
  • Loose trim panels
  • Dash noise at higher speeds

Repair cost in the UK:

  • Clip or trim fix: £20 to £60
  • Labour: £60 to £100
  • Typical total: £80 to £160

Common Nissan Kicks Repairs and UK Costs

ProblemEstimated Repair Cost
CVT transmission repair£150 to £3,000
Air conditioning faults£300 to £800
Throttle response issues£150 to £300
Suspension component wear£200 to £450
Brake system faults£200 to £500
Electrical or infotainment£150 to £300
Interior rattles or trim£80 to £160

Should You Buy a Nissan Kicks in the UK?

If you are importing a Nissan Kicks or buying one second-hand in the UK, it can be a smart buy if well maintained. Its fuel efficiency, compact size, and features make it ideal for city use. But you need to be cautious with the CVT transmission and electronic systems.

Always check service records and book a professional pre-purchase inspection before buying. Services like CAREXAMER offer full vehicle inspections across the UK, starting from just £142. Their checks cover over 300 points including suspension, gearbox, electronics, brakes, and engine health. It is the most reliable way to avoid a bad purchase and unexpected bills.

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