Sounds like the steering wheel lock control unit malfunctioning. As you stated, it's a known issues with Nissans around model year 2009. Given Suzuki and Nissan use the same parts supplier for their remote system, I wouldn't be surprised if they used the same steering lock manufacturer.kizashi11 wrote:This has been happening to my kizashi for the last few years. This week it happens multiple times a day, leaving me stranded. What's the fix? Is there a steering lock control unit going bad? Is there a way to disable the steering lock system? Nissan and infinity had this same problem. I deploy soon and of course don't feel comfortable leaving my wife and kids stranded. So pissed I bought this car. I had to drive 5.5 hrs to get recalls done on this p.o.s. This seems to be a common problem that nobody knows how to fix. Thanks Suzuki!
I browsed a few Nissan forums for some tips. Here's what I found for things to try when stuck somewhere:
1) Turn the car off completely. Unlock your steering column (the lever under the steering) and abruptly move the steering wheel all the way up and down several times while hitting the push-start button once to ACC. If you hear a winding nose your steering-lock is free and should start the car...continue starting the car. If you don't hear it, re-try.
2) Try the tapping technique (if you want to call it that).... Turn the car off. get under your steering column, locate your steering lock, tap at the steering lock itself GENTLY with a small hammer or plastic mallet...while you press the start button once. or even use one of your metal temporary tools in the trunk. If you hear a winding noise coming from the steering-lock it is free. You should be able to start the car. Continue to start the car. If you don't hear the noise continue tapping it and cycle through the starter button ACC/ON/OFF a few times slowly.
The problem sounds annoying as it can get you stuck somewhere but there are solutions. Also, if you are out of warranty, you can opt to replace the steering wheel lock module yourself. It's expensive but probably worth replacing rather than dealing with this issue. This is the part and it doesn't look hard to access: http://monsterfactoryparts.com/parts/20 ... ing%20lock
There is a process in replacing it involving a fuse so you may want to browse Nissan forums for the details if you take this route.