2020 Nissan Kicks

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
1.6L I4
Oil Type & Capacity
0W-20 Full Synthetic (3.7 qts)
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Wheel Torque
83
ft-lbs

The 2020 Nissan Kicks maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Nissan Kicks.

For oil changes, the 2020 Nissan Kicks takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 3.7 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Blue Long Life Coolant (OAT), and transmission fluid is Nissan Matic S. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Nissan Kicks, torque the lug nuts to 83 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Kicks have reported 5 common issues including "CVT Transmission Jerking and Hesitation", "Electrical System and Battery Drain" and "Automatic Emergency Braking Malfunction". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2020 Nissan Kicks uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (3.7 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 83 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2020 Nissan Kicks Specifications
Motor Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity3.7 qt
Lug Nut Torque83 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantBlue Long Life Coolant (OAT)
Transmission FluidNissan Matic S
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
Nissan Matic S
Shop
Coolant
Fluid Type
Blue Long Life Coolant (OAT)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2020 Nissan Kicks. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
5,000 mi / 6 mo
0W-20 synthetic, 3.7 qt (1.6L)
Tire Rotation
5,000 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every 5,000 mi
Cabin Air Filter
20,000 mi / 24 mo
Replace more often in dusty conditions
Engine Air Filter
30,000 mi / 36 mo
Inspect at 15,000 mi
Brake Fluid
30,000 mi / 24 mo
DOT 3
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
Xtronic CVT; Nissan NS-3 fluid
Coolant
105,000 mi
Nissan Long Life coolant; then every 60,000 mi
Spark Plugs
120,000 mi
Iridium-tipped
Serpentine Belt
75,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Inspect annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2020 Nissan Kicks.

Common problems reported by 2020 Nissan Kicks owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

CVT Transmission Jerking and Hesitation

The CVT exhibits jerky behavior during low-speed acceleration, hesitation when pulling into traffic, and occasional shuddering at highway cruising speeds. Some owners report the transmission slipping or a rubber-band effect when accelerating.

Solution

CVT fluid replacement with Nissan NS-3 fluid and TCM reprogramming can improve shift feel. A full CVT software update at the dealer addresses the hesitation. In severe cases, the valve body requires replacement.

Est. Cost: $200 - $3,800
2

Electrical System and Battery Drain

Owners report intermittent electrical issues including dead batteries after sitting overnight, flickering dashboard lights, and random warning indicators. The parasitic drain is often traced to the infotainment unit or body control module not entering sleep mode.

Solution

A BCM software update and battery current draw test can identify the drain source. TSB NTB21-053B addresses the audio unit drain. Battery replacement with an AGM battery of proper CCA rating may also be needed.

Est. Cost: $0 - $350
3

Automatic Emergency Braking Malfunction

The forward collision warning and AEB system may activate without cause, applying brakes suddenly in normal traffic or on open roads. False alerts are more frequent in heavy rain, fog, or when passing under overpasses and bridges.

Solution

Front radar sensor recalibration and software update at the dealer. Ensure the front radar sensor area behind the grille is clean and free of debris. A sensor replacement may be needed if recalibration fails.

Est. Cost: $0 - $600
4

Infotainment Screen Freezing and Blank Display

The touchscreen infotainment system freezes, goes blank, or becomes unresponsive during use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections drop frequently, and the system may require a vehicle restart to recover functionality.

Solution

A system software update to the latest version typically resolves freezing. Performing a factory reset of the infotainment unit and updating the USB firmware can also help. Hardware replacement is rarely needed.

Est. Cost: $0 - $150
5

Underpowered Engine and Excessive Road Noise

The 1.6L naturally aspirated engine with 122 hp struggles with highway merging and uphill driving, especially with passengers. Excessive road and wind noise intrudes into the cabin, particularly at speeds above 60 mph due to minimal sound insulation.

Solution

No factory fix for the power output. Aftermarket sound deadening material can reduce cabin noise. Ensuring proper tire selection (low road-noise tires) and checking door seal integrity can help mitigate noise levels.

Est. Cost: $100 - $500 (sound deadening)

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Kicks — Other Model Years
202420232022202120192018201720162015
See Also
2020 Nissan Kicks Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2020 Nissan KicksAll Vehicles Using 0W-20 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2020 Nissan KicksWiper Replacement: 2020 Nissan Kicks