Nissan Kicks: Starting and driving - Precautions when starting and driving

WARNING

• Do not leave children or adults who would normally require the assistance of others alone in your Nissan Kicks.

  Pets should also never be left unattended inside the vehicle.

  They could accidentally operate controls, injure themselves or others, or create a dangerous situation. On hot and sunny days, the temperature inside a closed vehicle can rise very quickly and may cause severe or even fatal injuries to people or animals.

• Properly secure all cargo with ropes, straps, or other suitable restraints to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. Do not stack cargo higher than the seatbacks. During a sudden stop or collision, unsecured cargo can move forward and cause personal injury.
• To avoid raising the center of gravity excessively, do not exceed the rated capacity of the roof rack (if so equipped). Distribute the load evenly and make sure it is secured before driving.

• Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• On-pavement and off-road driving precautions
• Driving safety precautions

Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) Nissan Kicks 2025

WARNING

• Do not breathe exhaust gases. They contain carbon monoxide, which is colorless and odorless. Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous and can cause unconsciousness or death.
• If you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the Nissan Kicks, drive with all windows fully open and have the vehicle inspected immediately.
• Do not run the engine in enclosed spaces, such as a garage, even for a short time.
• Do not park the vehicle with the engine running for an extended period.
• Keep rear vent windows, the liftgate, doors, and trunk lids (if so equipped) closed while driving. If any of these are open, exhaust gases may be drawn into the passenger compartment. If driving with one open is unavoidable, follow these precautions:
  1. Open all the windows.

  2. Set the air recirculation button to off and set the fan control dial to high to increase fresh air circulation.

• If electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass to a trailer through the seal on the trunk lid or the body, follow the manufacturer's recommendations to help prevent carbon monoxide from entering the vehicle.
• The exhaust system and vehicle body should be inspected by a qualified mechanic whenever:
  a. The vehicle is raised for service.

  b. You suspect exhaust fumes are entering the passenger compartment.

  c. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system.

  d. The Nissan Kicks has been involved in an accident that may have damaged the exhaust system, underbody, or rear of the vehicle.

• If electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass to a trailer through the seal on the trunk lid or the body, follow the manufacturer's recommendations to help prevent carbon monoxide from entering the vehicle.
• The exhaust system and body should be inspected by a qualified mechanic whenever:
  a. The vehicle is raised for service.

  b. You suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the passenger compartment.

  c. You notice a change in the exhaust system sound.

  d. An accident has caused possible damage to the exhaust system, underbody, or rear area of the Nissan Kicks.

Three-way catalyst

The three-way catalyst is an emissions-control component installed in the exhaust system of the Nissan Kicks.

Inside the three-way catalyst, exhaust gases are treated at very high temperatures to help reduce harmful pollutants before they leave the exhaust system.

WARNING

• Exhaust gas and exhaust system components become extremely hot. Keep people, animals, dry vegetation, and flammable materials away from the exhaust system.
• Do not stop or park the vehicle over flammable materials such as dry grass, waste paper, or rags. These materials may ignite if they contact hot exhaust components.

CAUTION

• Do not use leaded gasoline. Deposits from leaded fuel can seriously reduce the ability of the three-way catalyst to reduce exhaust pollutants.
• Keep the engine properly tuned. Malfunctions in the ignition system, fuel injection system, or electrical system can cause an overly rich fuel mixture to enter the three-way catalyst, which may lead to overheating. Do not continue driving if the engine misfires, loses noticeable power, or shows other unusual operating conditions.

  Have the Nissan Kicks inspected promptly. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

• Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel can cause engine misfire and may damage the three-way catalyst.
• Do not race the engine while it is warming up.
• Do not push or tow the Nissan Kicks in an attempt to start the engine.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Nissan Kicks

Each tire on the Nissan Kicks, including the spare tire (if equipped), should be inspected at least once a month when cold and inflated according to the pressure specifications listed on the vehicle placard or tire inflation label. If your Nissan Kicks is equipped with tires that differ from the factory-installed size, make sure the correct inflation pressure is determined for those tires.

As an additional safety feature, the Nissan Kicks is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system continuously monitors tire pressure and activates a low tire pressure warning indicator whenever one or more tires become significantly underinflated.

If the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and inspect all tires. Inflate them to the recommended pressure listed by the manufacturer. Driving with severely underinflated tires can cause excessive heat buildup, increase the risk of tire failure, reduce fuel efficiency, shorten tread life, and negatively affect the handling and braking performance of the Nissan Kicks.

It is important to understand that the TPMS is designed as a supplemental safety system and does not replace regular tire maintenance. The driver remains responsible for checking and maintaining proper tire pressure, even if the warning light has not yet been triggered.

The Nissan Kicks is also equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator that alerts the driver when the monitoring system is not functioning correctly.

This malfunction indicator shares the same warning light assembly as the low tire pressure warning indicator.

When a system fault is detected, the warning light flashes for approximately one minute and then remains illuminated continuously.

This sequence will repeat each time the vehicle is started until the malfunction is corrected. While the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the TPMS may not be able to properly monitor tire pressures or provide accurate warnings when tire pressure becomes low. TPMS issues can occur for several reasons, including the installation of replacement tires or wheels that are incompatible with the original monitoring system.

After replacing tires, wheels, or TPMS-related components on the Nissan Kicks, always verify that the system operates correctly and that the warning indicators function as intended.

Additional information:

• When using a wheel that is not equipped with a TPMS sensor, such as certain spare tires, the system cannot monitor the tire pressure of that wheel.
• The TPMS becomes active only when the Nissan Kicks is driven at speeds above 16 mph (25 km/h). In addition, the system may not immediately detect a rapid loss of tire pressure, such as a sudden puncture that occurs while driving.
• The low tire pressure warning light does not automatically switch off immediately after tire pressure is corrected. Once the affected tire has been inflated to the recommended pressure, the vehicle must be driven at speeds above 16 mph (25 km/h) to allow the TPMS to update and turn off the warning light. Always confirm tire pressure using a reliable tire pressure gauge.
• The "Tire Pressure Low-Add Air" warning appears every time the ignition switch is placed in the ON position while the low tire pressure warning light remains illuminated.
• The "Tire Pressure Low-Add Air" warning is displayed in the vehicle information display whenever low tire pressure is detected and the warning light is active. The message automatically disappears when tire pressure returns to the proper range and the warning light turns off.
• The "Tire Pressure Low-Add Air" warning message does not appear if the warning light is illuminated due to a TPMS malfunction rather than actual low tire pressure.
• Tire pressure naturally changes depending on driving conditions and outside temperature. As the Nissan Kicks is driven, heat generated inside the tires causes pressure to increase. Do not release air from the tires immediately after driving, as the pressure increase is normal and expected.
• For the best performance, safety, and fuel economy of your Nissan Kicks, regularly inspect tire condition, check tire pressures when the tires are cold, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual.

Low outside temperature can reduce the temperature of the air inside each tire, which may lower tire inflation pressure. When this happens, the low tire pressure warning light in the Nissan Kicks may illuminate. If the warning light comes on, check the pressure in all four tires as soon as possible.

The Tire and Loading Information label is located in the driver's door opening and should be used as the main reference for cold tire inflation pressure.

You can also view the pressure of all tires, except the spare tire, on the vehicle information display screen. The order of the tire pressure values shown on the screen matches the actual tire positions on the Nissan Kicks.

WARNING

• Radio waves may negatively affect electric medical equipment. Anyone using a pacemaker should contact the medical equipment manufacturer to learn about possible effects before using this system.
• If the low tire pressure warning light illuminates while driving, avoid sudden steering inputs and hard braking. Reduce speed, move off the road to a safe location, and stop the vehicle as soon as possible.

  Driving the Nissan Kicks with under-inflated tires may permanently damage the tires and increase the risk of tire failure.

  Serious vehicle damage may occur, and the situation could lead to an accident with serious personal injury.

  Check the tire pressure in all four tires. Adjust each tire to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label to turn the low tire pressure warning light off. If a tire is flat, replace it with a spare tire as soon as possible.

• When a wheel without a TPMS sensor is used, such as certain spare tires, or when a spare tire is installed or a wheel is replaced, the TPMS will not operate normally. The low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute and then remain illuminated. Have the tires replaced and/or the TPMS reset as soon as possible. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.
• Installing tires that were not originally specified by NISSAN may affect proper TPMS operation on the Nissan Kicks.
• Do not inject tire liquid or aerosol tire sealant into the tires. These products may cause a malfunction of the tire pressure sensors.

CAUTION

• The TPMS may not function correctly when tire chains are installed or when the wheels are buried in snow.
• Do not apply metalized film or attach metal parts, such as antennas or similar items, to the windows. These materials may interfere with signals from the tire pressure sensors and prevent the TPMS from operating correctly.

Some devices, transmitters, and nearby electrical sources may temporarily interfere with TPMS operation and cause the low tire pressure warning light in the Nissan Kicks to illuminate even when tire pressure should be checked separately with a gauge.

Examples of possible interference include:

• Facilities or electrical equipment using similar radio frequencies near the vehicle.
• A transmitter set to similar frequencies being used inside or near the Nissan Kicks.
• A computer, similar electronic equipment, or a DC/AC converter operating in or near the vehicle.

The low tire pressure warning light may illuminate in the following situations:

• The vehicle is equipped with a wheel and tire that does not have TPMS.
• The TPMS has been replaced, but the sensor ID has not been registered.
• The wheel installed on the Nissan Kicks is not originally specified by NISSAN.

FCC Notice:

For USA:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

NOTE:

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

For Canada:

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference. (2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

TPMS with Easy-Fill Tire Alert

When air is added to an under-inflated tire on the Nissan Kicks, the TPMS with Easy-Fill Tire Alert can provide exterior visual and audible signals to help the driver inflate the tire to the recommended COLD tire pressure. This feature is designed to make pressure adjustment more convenient without relying only on repeated manual checks.

Vehicle set-up

1. Park the vehicle on a safe, level surface where tire inflation can be performed without traffic or other hazards nearby.

2. Apply the parking brake and move the shift lever to the P (Park) position.

3. Place the ignition switch in the ON position.

Do not start the engine while setting up the Nissan Kicks for Easy-Fill Tire Alert operation.

Operation

1. Add air to the tire that requires inflation.

2. After a few seconds, the hazard indicators will begin flashing to show that the system has detected inflation activity.

3. When the specified tire pressure is reached, the horn will sound once and the hazard indicators will stop flashing.

4. Repeat the same procedure for each tire that needs pressure adjustment.

• If the tire is over-inflated by more than approximately 4 psi (30 kPa), the horn will beep and the hazard indicators will flash three times. To correct the pressure, briefly press the valve stem core to release air. When the tire reaches the designated pressure, the horn will sound once.
• If the hazard indicators do not begin flashing within approximately 15 seconds after inflation starts, the Easy-Fill Tire Alert may not be operating at that moment.
• The TPMS will not activate the Easy-Fill Tire Alert under the following conditions:
  • Interference is present from an external device or transmitter.
  • The air pressure from the inflation device is not strong enough to inflate the tire properly.
  • There is a malfunction in the TPMS.
  • There is a malfunction in the horn or hazard indicators.
  • The identification code of the tire pressure sensor has not been registered to the Nissan Kicks system.
  • The battery in the tire pressure sensor is low.
  • If the Easy-Fill Tire Alert does not operate because of TPMS interference, move the vehicle about 3 ft (1 m) backward or forward, then try the inflation procedure again.

If the Easy-Fill Tire Alert is not working, use a reliable tire pressure gauge to confirm the tire pressure manually before driving the Nissan Kicks.

On-pavement and off-road driving precautions Nissan Kicks Owner's Manual

Utility vehicles generally have a higher risk of rollover compared with many traditional passenger cars.

Because the Nissan Kicks features increased ground clearance, it is capable of handling a wider variety of road conditions and light off-road situations. This elevated ride height also results in a higher center of gravity than that of many conventional passenger vehicles.

One of the benefits of the higher seating position in the Nissan Kicks is improved visibility, allowing drivers to better anticipate traffic conditions and potential hazards. However, vehicles with increased ground clearance are not intended to corner at the same speeds as lower passenger cars, just as sports cars are not designed for rough terrain driving. Whenever possible, avoid high-speed cornering and abrupt steering inputs.

Like any crossover or utility vehicle, improper operation of the Nissan Kicks can lead to loss of control or a rollover event.

In a rollover accident, occupants who are not wearing seat belts face a significantly greater risk of serious injury or death than those who are properly restrained.

Avoiding collision and rollover

WARNING

Failure to drive the Nissan Kicks in a safe, responsible, and attentive manner may result in loss of control, a collision, or a rollover accident.

Remain alert, anticipate changing road conditions, and practice defensive driving techniques at all times.

Always obey traffic laws and posted speed limits. Avoid excessive speed, aggressive cornering, and sudden steering movements, as these actions can reduce vehicle stability and increase the possibility of losing control.

As with any vehicle, loss of control may cause a collision with another vehicle, roadside object, or lead to a rollover, especially if the vehicle begins sliding sideways.

Stay focused on driving conditions and avoid operating the Nissan Kicks when fatigued. Never drive while under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances, or medications that may impair alertness. Always wear your seat belt and ensure that all passengers are properly restrained as described in the "Safety - Seats, Seat Belts and Supplemental Restraint System" section of this manual.

Seat belts significantly reduce the risk of injury during collisions and rollover accidents.

In a rollover crash, occupants who are not wearing seat belts are substantially more likely to suffer fatal injuries than those who are properly buckled.

Off-road recovery

While driving, the wheels on either side of the Nissan Kicks may unintentionally leave the paved road surface. If this occurs, remain calm and follow the recommendations below to maintain vehicle control.

Keep in mind that these steps are intended as general guidance only. Driving decisions should always be based on actual road, traffic, weather, and vehicle conditions.

1. Stay calm and avoid panic reactions.

2. Do not apply the brakes suddenly.

3. Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands and maintain the intended direction of travel.

4. When conditions allow, gradually ease off the accelerator pedal to reduce speed smoothly.

5. If the roadway ahead is clear, carefully steer the Nissan Kicks to follow the road while allowing vehicle speed to decrease. Do not attempt to abruptly return to the road surface at higher speeds.

6. When it is safe, gently steer back onto the roadway until all four tires are fully on the pavement. Then guide the vehicle into the proper traffic lane.

• If road, traffic, or vehicle conditions make it unsafe to return immediately to the pavement, gradually slow the Nissan Kicks and stop in a safe area away from traffic.

Rapid air pressure loss

A rapid loss of tire pressure, commonly known as a blowout, can occur if a tire is punctured or damaged after striking a pothole, curb, or other road hazard. Driving on underinflated tires may also contribute to sudden tire failure.

A rapid loss of air pressure can significantly affect the handling, balance, and stability of the Nissan Kicks, particularly at highway speeds.

To help reduce the risk of tire failure, maintain the recommended tire pressure and inspect all tires regularly for signs of wear, cuts, or damage. For additional information, see "Wheels and Tires". If a tire on the Nissan Kicks suddenly loses pressure while driving, follow the procedure below to help maintain vehicle control.

These instructions are intended as general guidance and should always be adapted to actual driving conditions.

WARNING

If a tire suddenly loses air pressure, the vehicle will generally pull toward the side of the affected tire. Loss of vehicle control may result in a collision causing serious personal injury.

To reduce the risk of losing control:

• Do not slam on the brakes.
• Do not abruptly lift your foot from the accelerator pedal.
• Do not make sudden steering corrections.

1. Remain calm and avoid overreacting.

2. Maintain a firm two-handed grip on the steering wheel and keep the vehicle traveling in a straight line whenever possible.

3. Gradually release the accelerator pedal to allow the Nissan Kicks to slow down smoothly.

4. Carefully guide the vehicle toward a safe location away from moving traffic.

5. Apply the brakes gently and progressively until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

6. Activate the hazard warning flashers and contact roadside assistance or emergency service personnel to replace the damaged tire. For additional information, see "Changing a Flat Tire".

Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving

WARNING

Never operate the Nissan Kicks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol reduces coordination, impairs judgment, and slows reaction time.

Driving after consuming alcohol greatly increases the likelihood of accidents that can injure you, your passengers, and other road users.

In addition, alcohol can worsen injuries sustained during a collision and increase the severity of their consequences.

NISSAN strongly promotes safe and responsible driving. Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in alcohol-related crashes. Although legal intoxication limits vary by jurisdiction, alcohol affects every person differently, and many drivers underestimate its impact on their abilities.

Remember that drinking and driving never mix. The same warning applies to prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal substances that may impair concentration, judgment, or reaction time. If your ability to safely operate the Nissan Kicks is affected by alcohol, medication, or any physical condition, do not drive.

For maximum safety, always plan ahead, designate a sober driver when necessary, and ensure every journey in your Nissan Kicks begins with both the driver and all passengers properly secured with seat belts.

Safe driving habits and regular vehicle inspections help the Nissan Kicks deliver dependable performance both on paved roads and during light off-road adventures.

Driving safety precautions Nissan Kicks crossover

Your Nissan Kicks is designed for everyday road use and can also handle certain rough-road conditions with care. However, avoid driving through deep water, heavy mud, or severe off-road terrain, because the Nissan Kicks is primarily intended for normal driving and light recreational use rather than extreme off-road operation.

Keep in mind that 2-Wheel Drive (2WD) models are less capable than All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models when driving on rough surfaces or when trying to free the vehicle from deep snow, mud, sand, or similar conditions.

Please observe the following precautions:

WARNING

• Spinning the front wheels on slippery surfaces may cause the AWD warning message to appear and may make the AWD system automatically switch from AWD mode to 2WD mode. This can reduce traction when extra grip is needed.
• Drive carefully when leaving paved roads and avoid hazardous areas. Every driver and passenger in the Nissan Kicks should be seated properly with a seat belt fastened. Seat belts help keep occupants in position when traveling over uneven or rough terrain.
• Do not drive across steep slopes. Drive straight up or straight down whenever conditions allow. Vehicles with higher ground clearance can roll over sideways more easily than forward or backward.
• Many hills are too steep for any vehicle.

  If you drive up a hill that is too steep, the vehicle may stall. If you drive down such a hill, you may not be able to control your speed. If you drive across it, the vehicle may roll over.

• Do not shift gears while driving downhill, as this may cause loss of vehicle control.
• Stay alert when reaching the top of a hill. There may be a drop-off, obstruction, or other hazard beyond the crest.
• If the engine stalls or the Nissan Kicks cannot reach the top of a steep hill, never try to turn around. The vehicle could tip or roll over. Back straight down in R (Reverse) gear and use the brakes to control speed.
• Heavy braking while descending a hill can overheat the brakes and reduce braking effectiveness, which may lead to loss of control. Apply the brakes lightly and use a low gear to help manage speed.
• Unsecured cargo can move violently when driving over rough terrain.

  Secure all cargo properly so it cannot be thrown forward and injure the driver or passengers.

• Place heavy loads in the cargo area as far forward and as low as possible.

  Do not install tires larger than those specified in this manual.

  Incorrect loading or oversized tires can increase rollover risk.

• Do not hold the inside of the steering wheel or grip the spokes when driving off-road.

  The steering wheel may move suddenly and injure your hands. Keep your fingers and thumbs on the outside of the rim.

• Before driving, make sure the driver and all passengers have fastened their seat belts.
• Always drive with the floor mats properly in place, as the floor area may become hot.
• Reduce speed when driving in strong crosswinds. Because of its higher center of gravity, the Nissan Kicks can be more affected by side winds than a lower passenger car. Slower speeds improve control.
• Do not drive beyond the performance limits of the tires, even when AWD is engaged.
• For AWD-equipped vehicles, do not raise two wheels off the ground and shift the transmission into any drive or reverse position while the engine is running. This may cause drivetrain damage or unexpected vehicle movement, resulting in serious vehicle damage or personal injury.
• Do not test an AWD-equipped vehicle on a 2-wheel dynamometer, such as those used by some facilities for emissions testing, or on similar equipment, even if the other two wheels are raised off the ground. Inform test facility personnel that your vehicle is equipped with AWD before testing begins.

  Using incorrect test equipment may damage the drivetrain or cause unexpected vehicle movement, which could result in vehicle damage or personal injury.

• When one wheel is off the ground because of an uneven surface, do not spin the wheel excessively.
• Rapid acceleration, sharp steering, or sudden braking can cause loss of control.
• Whenever possible, avoid sharp turns, especially at higher speeds. The Nissan Kicks has a higher center of gravity than a typical passenger car and is not designed to corner at the same speeds as lower vehicles.
• Incorrect operation of this vehicle may result in loss of control and/or a rollover accident.
• Always use tires of the same type, size, brand, construction, and tread pattern on all four wheels. When driving on slippery roads, install tire chains on the front wheels and drive with extra care.
• Check the brakes immediately after driving through mud or water.
• Avoid parking the Nissan Kicks on steep hills. If the vehicle rolls forward, backward, or sideways after you exit, serious injury could occur.
• After driving through sand, mud, or water as deep as the wheel hub, more frequent maintenance may be required to keep the Nissan Kicks operating properly.