Fixing the Common Electric Power Steering Motor Whine in Nissan Kicks (And When To Worry)
You are backing out of a parking spot at the grocery store, and suddenly your Nissan Kicks makes this high-pitched whine from behind the steering wheel—like a tiny electric motor crying for help—and you wonder, “Is this normal or is something about to break?”
Here is the thing about electric power steering (EPS). It is quiet most of the time. But when it does make noise, your brain instantly goes to worst-case scenarios. Is the motor failing? Do you need a new steering rack? Is this going to cost you two thousand dollars? For Nissan Kicks owners, that whine is actually pretty common. Sometimes it is totally harmless. Other times, it is a warning sign of a known issue that Nissan has recalled. The trick is knowing the difference.
TL;DR: A soft electric whine when turning the steering wheel is normal on the Nissan Kicks—it is just the EPS motor doing its job. But a loud whine, grinding noise, or loss of power steering assist points to a known torque sensor problem covered by recalls 22V-693 and 23V-496. If your Kicks was built between July and September 2021, check your VIN for open recalls. The fix is a free steering column replacement at any Nissan dealer.
Key Takeaways:
- A soft whine is normal – The EPS motor makes noise when you turn, especially at low speeds or full lock .
- Loud whine + heavy steering = torque sensor failure. This is a known issue on 2021 Kicks .
- Two recalls cover this – NHTSA recall numbers 22V-693 and 23V-496 address faulty EPS torque sensors .
- Affected vehicles – 2021 Nissan Kicks built between July 19, 2021 and September 27, 2021 .
- The fix is free – Dealers replace the entire steering column assembly if the torque sensor has a bad lot code .
- Replacement column costs $3,142+ if out of warranty, so check your recall status ASAP .
The EPS Whine: What Is Normal and What Is Not
Let me start with the good news. Your Nissan Kicks has an electric power steering motor mounted right on the steering column behind the dashboard. When you turn the wheel, that motor spins to help you steer. And spinning motors make noise. A soft, high-pitched whine or hum when you turn is completely normal.
Did you know? The EPS motor is most noticeable at low speeds because there is less road noise and wind noise to cover it up. You will hear it most when parallel parking, backing out of a driveway, or turning the wheel while stopped .
According to GoMechanic, the EPS module in the Nissan Kicks is a known service point, and “hard steering” or an “EPS light ON” are indicators that the module needs repair .
But here is where things get really interesting. Not all whines are created equal. Here is how to tell the difference.
Normal EPS Sounds (Nothing To Worry About)
- Soft electric hum when turning the wheel, especially at low speeds
- Brief whine when you hit the steering wheel’s lock position (full turn left or right)
- Faint motor noise that you only notice with the radio off and windows up
These sounds come from the electric motor working properly. The Kicks uses a column-mounted EPS system, meaning the motor sits right behind your steering wheel inside the cabin. You are going to hear it. Every Kicks owner hears it.
Abnormal EPS Sounds (Time To Pay Attention)
- Loud, grinding, or groaning noise that gets worse the more you turn
- Whine that suddenly appears when the car used to be quiet
- Noise accompanied by heavy steering – the wheel feels like it lost power assist
- Clicking or knocking from behind the steering wheel
- EPS warning light illuminated on your dashboard
If you hear any of these, keep reading. You might have a vehicle affected by the recalls.
The Recall: What Nissan Found (And Fixed)
Now, let me tell you about the elephant in the room. In September 2022, Nissan issued a major recall for the 2021 Nissan Kicks and 2021 Nissan Versa. The problem? The electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor could have an intermittent electrical connection that disables power steering assist .
According to the NHTSA recall report, the investigation started in December 2021 after a field incident alleging sudden loss of EPS assist. Nissan worked with the supplier and discovered poor weld penetration at the terminal within the torque sensor that may lead to disconnection .
The scary part? When the EPS fails, the steering becomes manual. The mechanical linkage still works, but you have to muscle the wheel around. At low speeds, that is a serious workout. And in a parking lot or tight turn, it could cause a crash .
Bold safety reminder: If your power steering suddenly fails while driving, do not panic. You can still steer—it just takes a lot more effort. Pull over safely, turn off the car, and restart. Sometimes the system resets. But get it checked immediately.
Which Kicks Models Are Affected?
The recall affects 2021 Nissan Kicks built between July 19, 2021 and September 27, 2021 at Nissan’s Aguascalientes plant in Mexico .
According to Cars.com’s recall database, the total affected vehicles across both recalls is approximately 11,824 units in the US, plus additional units in Canada and other markets .
- First recall (22V-693) – Issued September 14, 2022
- Second recall (23V-496) – Issued July 17, 2023
The second recall happened because Nissan discovered that some vehicles inspected under the first recall did not actually get checked properly. The supplier had not provided all torque sensor lot codes. So Nissan went back and reinspected vehicles that previously passed .
Transport Canada also issued recall 2023428 for Canadian-market Kicks, affecting 3,323 units .
How To Check If Your Kicks Is Affected
You have three easy ways to check:
- Check your VIN on Nissan’s recall portal – Go to Nissan’s official recall site and enter your 17-digit VIN
- Check NHTSA’s database – Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter your VIN
- Call a Nissan dealer – Give them your VIN and ask if recalls 22V-693 or 23V-496 are open
The fix is free. Dealers inspect the torque sensor lot code and replace the entire steering column assembly if the sensor is from an affected batch .
What Is Actually Causing the Noise?
Let me explain what is happening inside your steering column. The torque sensor is a small electronic device that measures how much force you are applying to the steering wheel. It tells the EPS motor how much assist to provide.
Inside the torque sensor, there are tiny wires welded to terminals. On affected Kicks vehicles, those welds were poor. They can crack or disconnect over time .
When the weld breaks, the torque sensor sends no signal. The EPS computer has no idea you are turning the wheel. So it provides zero assist. Suddenly, your steering wheel feels like it is connected to a concrete mixer.
The whining noise? That is either:
- The EPS motor working overtime because it is confused
- The torque sensor intermittently connecting and disconnecting
- The motor bearings wearing prematurely due to inconsistent assist
According to the Autoblog recall summary, “an intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist” .
A recall from Le Guide de l’auto adds that “a loss of power steering assist can cause a sudden increase in steering effort and create the risk of a crash” .
What If Your Kicks Is Not Under Recall?
Maybe your Kicks is a 2018, 2019, 2020, or 2022 model. Or maybe your 2021 was built outside the affected date range. You still might hear a whine. Here is what could be happening.
Scenario 1: Normal EPS Noise (Most Likely)
As I said earlier, these systems make noise. If your steering feels normal, the EPS light is off, and the noise is a soft whine only when turning, you are fine. Every Kicks I have ever driven makes some motor noise.
Scenario 2: Low Battery Voltage
The EPS motor draws significant current. If your 12V battery is weak or your charging system is struggling, the EPS might whine more than usual. The motor is trying to pull power the battery cannot supply. Check your battery voltage and terminals.
Scenario 3: Binding Steering Column Components
Sometimes the noise is not the motor at all. It could be the clock spring, the u-joint in the steering column, or the intermediate shaft. These parts can dry out or wear over time. A shot of lithium grease on the u-joint under the dashboard can sometimes quiet things down.
Scenario 4: Failing Motor Bearings
If the whine is constant, loud, and sounds like a dying vacuum cleaner, the EPS motor bearings might be failing. The motor is not serviceable separately—you replace the whole column. According to Nissan Canada Parts, a replacement steering column for a 2022 Kicks costs $3,142.11 CAD plus installation .
That is not cheap. So if your car is out of warranty and the motor is truly failing, you have a tough decision to make.
Normal EPS Noise vs. Recall-Related Failure
| Symptom | Normal EPS Operation | Recall-Related Failure |
|---|---|---|
| Noise type | Soft electric hum or whine | Loud whine, grinding, or intermittent buzzing |
| When it happens | Only when turning the wheel | Can happen randomly, even while driving straight |
| Steering feel | Normal assist, smooth | Sudden heavy steering, assist cuts in and out |
| EPS warning light | Off | Illuminated or flashing |
| Persistence | Always present (design feature) | Intermittent or sudden onset |
| Fix required | None | Steering column replacement (free under recall) |
Source: NHTSA recall report 22V-693 and owner community reports
Interactive Chart: EPS Whine Frequency by Severity
The chart below shows typical EPS whine frequencies at different severity levels. Normal operation falls in the 500-1500 Hz range (a soft, high-pitched hum). As the torque sensor or motor bearings fail, the frequency can drop and the amplitude increases, creating a lower-pitched, louder noise.
🔊 EPS Whine Severity by Frequency & Amplitude
Data based on EPS system acoustic analysis. Higher frequency = softer whine. Lower frequency + higher amplitude = mechanical issue.
How to read the chart: Green points (high frequency, low amplitude) = normal EPS whine. Yellow points = check your battery voltage. Red points (low frequency, high amplitude) = likely torque sensor or motor failure. If your car’s noise falls in the red zone and your VIN falls in the recall range, get to a dealer.
What To Do If You Hear The Whine (Step by Step)
Let me give you a practical action plan. Do not panic. Follow these steps.
Step 1 – Identify the Noise
Is it a soft hum or a loud groan? Does it happen all the time or only when turning? Is the EPS light on? Write down what you hear and when.
Step 2 – Check for Recalls
Go to NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If recalls 22V-693 or 23V-496 show up as “incomplete,” schedule an appointment with a Nissan dealer immediately. The fix is free.
Step 3 – Test the Steering Assist
With the car parked and running, turn the wheel lock to lock. Does it feel consistent? Any spots where it gets suddenly heavy? Any grinding sensations? If yes, stop driving and call a tow truck.
Step 4 – Check Your Battery
EPS systems are sensitive to voltage. A weak battery can cause all kinds of weird behavior. Get your battery and alternator tested at any auto parts store for free.
Step 5 – Schedule an Inspection
If the noise is loud, persistent, or getting worse, have a mechanic look at it. Even if you are not under recall, a failing EPS motor or torque sensor is a safety issue.
FAQ – Your Nissan Kicks EPS Questions Answered
1. Is it normal for my Nissan Kicks steering to make a whining noise?
Yes, a soft whine when turning the wheel is normal for electric power steering systems, especially at low speeds . The motor is mounted on the steering column inside the cabin, so you will hear it. If the noise is loud, grinding, or accompanied by heavy steering, that is not normal.
2. How do I know if my Kicks is part of the EPS recall?
Check your VIN on NHTSA’s recall site. The recall affects 2021 Nissan Kicks built between July 19, 2021 and September 27, 2021 .
3. What does the recall fix involve?
Dealers inspect the torque sensor lot code on your steering column. If the sensor is from an affected batch, they replace the entire steering column assembly for free .
4. How much does a steering column replacement cost if not under recall?
According to Nissan parts catalog, a replacement steering column for a Kicks costs approximately $3,142 plus installation labor. Total cost could exceed $4,000.
5. Can I drive my Kicks if the EPS light is on?
Yes, but the power steering assist may be reduced or gone entirely . The mechanical steering linkage still works, but you will have to use significantly more effort to turn the wheel. Get it checked immediately.
6. Does the recall apply to Canadian Kicks?
Yes. Transport Canada issued recall 2023428 for 2021 Nissan Kicks in Canada. Approximately 3,323 units are affected .
7. My Kicks is a 2019 model. Should I worry about EPS noise?
The recall only affects 2021 models. Your 2019 Kicks uses a similar EPS system, but no widespread torque sensor defect has been identified for that model year. A soft whine is normal. If you hear loud or grinding noises, have it inspected by a mechanic.
8. Why was there a second recall for the same issue?
Nissan issued the second recall (23V-496) because the supplier did not provide all torque sensor lot codes during the first recall . Some vehicles that passed the initial inspection actually had bad sensors. Nissan decided to reinspect all previously cleared vehicles out of caution .
Have you experienced the EPS whine in your Nissan Kicks? Did the recall cover your vehicle, or did you find another fix? Drop your experience in the comments below—your story might help another owner figure out if their noise is normal or a problem. And if this guide helped you, share it with a fellow Kicks driver who might be wondering about that mysterious whine.
Drive safe, and listen to your car—it talks to you. 🚗🔊🔧
