Dont handle the steering column roughly, even though it is firm and could be hard to move when engaged. Use the ignition key to pull the entire assembly out by pulling it toward the passenger side of the car. And don't bet on The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which will only force automakers to issue recalls on safety problems. Rachel Rigolino is an insurance writer with over 30 years of experience in writing and publishing. The most common reasons for a steering wheel to lock while driving are a problem with the power steering system, a steering rack/column or suspension issue, a car ignition lock problem, or sharp turns. Hold your steering wheel in the correct direction while pressing the key into the ignition, then start the engine. My 2009 Nissan Murano had been driving perfectly until one day I asked a friend of mine to move it for me. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. There is a service campaign but just for the 2009-2010 Altima and Maxima. It could also be due to low power steering fluid, but thats unlikely if the wheel still has some functionality. Put a little pressure on the key while its in the ignition and work the steering wheel back and forth while its in the ignition. While many newer vehicles are now being manufactured with push button and keyless power and starting systems, traditional ignition lock cylinders are still commonly found on many road going cars and trucks. To unlock the steering wheel on a Nissan Sentra push to start model, press and hold the start button for 2 seconds. It hurts your engine and can lead to your steering wheel locking up while driving. Your cylinder could have become tighter over time. Rapidly figure out how to settle a steering wheel before taking your car out on the road. This article has 12 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. If no torque specs are found, tighten bolts firmly using a long handled ratchet for leverage. A Driving Wheel May Be Unlocked In Five Easy Steps, Spin the keys while simultaneously attempting to turn the vehicle wheel, Try turning the wheel backward and forth by applying varying pressure towards the ignition once its in the key, Remove any dirt or debris from the ignition. This isn't the first time Nissan has done something about their defective steering column lock. Sometimes your steering wheel locks up as a safety mechanism. Genuine Nissan Parts - Authentic Catalog Part from The Factory (48700 If your car has a push button to start the engine, and you want to unlock the steerin. Turn the key and turn the vehicle in the proper direction when using your key to unlock the door. Simply put the key back in the ignition and turn it until the engine starts. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. On models Nissan altimas and maximas 2009-2010 the steering column lock box (ESCL) fails. Once the ESCL detects the your key fob, it unlocks the steering wheel and lets you go on your merry way. Check that all clips are completely engaged and that they are securely fastened together. Applying a spray, such as WD40, to the inside of the barrels should open it. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Fix-a-Locked-Steering-Wheel-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Locked-Steering-Wheel-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Fix-a-Locked-Steering-Wheel-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid5033867-v4-728px-Fix-a-Locked-Steering-Wheel-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"