\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. So while it may not be a problem in every year yet, it's worth looking out for. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. According to It Still Runs, wheel locking is also often caused by common maintenance oversights. Graphite comes in small tubes designed to squirt the powder with enough force to reach the back of any keyhole. We attempted the hammer trick after receiving estimates from multiple dealers ranging from $950 to $1100. Enjoy! A timeline of stories related to this problem. To fix a locked steering wheel, put the key in the ignition and apply gentle but constant pressure in the direction you turn the key to start the vehicle. This article really helped me because I am. NHTSA Recall ID: 10119195. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the process of auto repair and maintenance. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. How To Replace A Rear Main Seal Without Removing The Transmission, The Reasons for AC Low Side High, High Side Low Pressure, Steering Wheel Locked Up While Driving Causes and Solutions, Get a mechanic to establish the cause and conduct a repair, Avoid routes with sharp turns or take them slowly. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. As we have noted, there are three common reasons as to why your steering wheel would lock up; you are using the wrong key, making frequent sharp turns, a power steering pump failure or an ignition lock. The ESCL's primary job is to keep the steering wheel locked until you bring your key fob in range of the vehicle. How to change front turn signal bulb on my Chrysler 200 ? Sudden lock up is a fatigue failure of the ignition system so if you notice anything weird about your ignition contact a mechanic as soon as you can. A list of experts is available. Be sure to plug the ignition wire switch into the new cylinder before sliding it into place. Next time I purchase a car I definitely will be giving every dealership a visit and test driving everything before purchasing. Once you determine the cause of the steering wheel lock up, act fast to fix its root cause. If you want to save money on car insurance, the. This article has been viewed 1,315,787 times. Even though it seems logical, finding oneself next to the steering wheel on the stopped Nissan Altima might be unsettling if you dont understand the vehicle well. Steering column bolts usually have torque specifications which are located in the vehicle's repair manual, in the specification section. Sticking lock pins are lubricated using powdered graphite that is applied directly inside the keyhole. Preserve the power steering fluid for as long as possible by flushing it every 30,000 miles. While gently but deliberately pressing on the steering wheel, proceed with the instructions above. What do you do when your steering wheel won't turn? While it's not a recall, as part of the "service campaign" Nissan has agreed to replce the originaly steering lock with a new electronic steering column box for free: The electronic steering column box will replace the ESCL assembly but will no longer lock the steering wheel when the car is parked and turned off. Denso vs NGK Which Spark Plug Is the Better Choice? This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Note: If the key doesn't turn with slight pressure, applying more will not increase the likelihood of it turning. Two key symbols are displayed and the steering wheel is locked. Mike V. is a Nissan technician. The electronic steering column box replaces the ESCL assembly, but it does not require the steering wheel to remain locked while the car is parked or turned off. A replacement will have to be cut by a dealership that works with vehicles of your make and model. When it happens or when you notice the signs that your steering could lock up, you need to act fast to attend to the issue or else youll be vulnerable to an accident. By the same token, a loose steering wheel can affect how you drive, endangering you and others. References wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. The abrupt turns may also cause your power steering pump to get stuck. It might be worn down from usage, or it could have been damaged if someone tried to steal the car. Take care to unplug the ignition switch wire connector as you remove the ignition cylinder. How to Troubleshoot a Broken Air Conditioner, Reduced Engine Power: What It Is and What to Do When You See the Warning Light. If your steering wheel locks while driving, its likely caused by a steering linkage failure. Remove 4 screws on the piece of metal that is below the steering lock (wrench needed) 3. What Size Socket for Spark Plug? Its a basic part of your cars safety attributes. Expert Interview. We can't officially recommend smacking or cutting up your car (tempting as it may be). Its a condition mechanics refer to as sudden lock up and is very dangerous if it occurs while you are driving at a high speed. It is the process of turning the key while applying pressure to the wheel simultaneously that will unlock the steering wheel. Now I can go home and sleep. Rapidly figure out how to settle a steering wheel before taking your car out on the road. Making sharp turns frequently has an effect on your cars transmission system. Purchase a new ignition lock assembly prior to the removal of a failed assembly. The contact was unable to start the vehicle. If you have sufficient knowledge on how to do them by yourself, all you need is a DIY guide, otherwise you can consult a mechanic to undertake the repair for you. Leo561 said: I have a 2019 Nissan Altima that steering wheel locked up while I was driving. Nissan owners not covered by the new service campaign are still quite upset: Now they're wondering why Nissan never told them about it: They didn't let the owners know so it could be fixed before the extension expired on March 31, 2015. If you are an automobile owner who cares about its noise so much, you may wonder, 'does catalytic converter reduce noise?' Click here <<. All you needed to maneuver the vehicle around corners was arm muscles. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Steering wheels are designed to lock up under certain conditions. "A snowy morning on my way to work, stopped at the convenience store, came back out and tried to start the car, a key light was flashing on the dash, brake was hard to press. Hold your steering wheel in the correct direction while pressing the key into the ignition, then start the engine. It is best to carefully slide the key into and out. Power steering problems can also cause your steering wheel to bind in one direction. Whether you are a regular driver or You have a wide range of alternatives for lifting the vehicle. I was able to use the, "My wheel was locked, and slight maneuvering using the key in the ignition and a slight push to the steering wheel, "Method 1, Step 4 worked first try. Legal questions about job losses, unemployment, and separation from employment have increased since October, according to JustAnswer.com. Common signs include the . Whatever the reason, here's a handful of things you can do to make sure it gets the attention it deserves. The ignition lock cylinder is usually located on the right side of steering . Your cylinder could have become tighter over time. A steering wheel lock is standard equipment on all Nissan Sentra 1996 models. All you Need To Know, What RPM Should My Car Idle At Comprehensive Guide, Can A Catalytic Converter Unclog Itself? Interested in getting these stories in an email? "I was leaving night shift when my steering wheel locked and I couldn't get it to budge. 2009 nissan altima steering collum lock actuator was bad so i bought a dorman from autozone and it comes with a key fob programmer . This isn't the first time Nissan has done something about their defective steering column lock. What Are the Reasons for Rattling Noise When Accelerating? This problem has popped up in the following Nissan generations.Most years within a generation share the same parts and manufacturing process. !. Attempt to remove any dirt particles that could prevent the key from spinning by sliding the keys out and into the clutch. Major class action law firms use this data when researching cases. Sometimes keys that are worn dont work as well., If the above tips dont pan out, theres a chance that spraying, electrical cleaner, lubricant, or canned air. It was in no prior accidents, has 90k miles on it, I just paid 2000 at a certified Nissan dealer to have the entire steering wheel assembly (rack and pinion and tie rods) replaced. It could also be due to low power steering fluid, but thats unlikely if the wheel still has some functionality. The extension bumped up the 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty to 72 months and unlimited miles. After walking you through how to disengage the anti-theft device to unlock your Nissan steering wheel, well cover some other common causes for this problem., Then well even throw in some tips to help you save on. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. If it's not equipped with an adjustable steering column, remove the steering column support brace under the dashboard and allow the column to hang. Check that all clips are completely engaged and that they are securely fastened together. Place your left hand on the top of the steering wheel, and turn it left and right between the two locks, and at the same time, GENTLY apply pressure to the key until it turns. JavaScript is disabled. In addition, Car From Japan says the problem could be due to a backed-up power steering pump. How To Clean In Between Car Seats Comfortably? What to do if your steering wheel vibrates or shakes, When you get into your Nissan and find a problem with a locked steering wheel or another component of your car, SUV, or truck thats not working, chances are youll turn to the Internet, looking for an online expert to help you diagnose the underlying cause of your problem., Did you know that theres an expert on finding, as well?