Links to posts about Steering Wheel Lock

SouthArk370Z · 11-15-2012, 10:27 AM

Seems that a lot of people are having Steering Lock problems. Here's a list of posts that discuss the issue and how to prevent/fix it. I hope this will help those having Steering Lock problems and those trying to help them.
I found these by using the site search and looking for "lock", then wading through the 500 hits. They are listed in the order I found them. If you find any more, please add a comment.
Number of pages accurate as of 2012-12-08. Links in italic are posts I think are most informative.
Last edit: 2012-12-14 1135 USCentral

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Those of you who have had Steering Lock Failure (24 pages)
If your Steering Lock has failed, please post here and then file a complaint at NHTSA. Better yet, file a complaint and then post here.

Lots of good info if you have the time.

Link to NHTSA for filing complaint - Link to purchase new SLU - DTC thrown is B261F - Tips from fritz - Link to purchase bypass harness - MelloYello counts 33 members with SLU failure - No SL in 2012 and newer 370Zs - Name and current rating of SL fuse - Pics of opened IPDM and cover - TSB for re-programming BCM (NTB12-041 dated April 27, 2012) - Nissan list of affected vehicles - SL fuse not related to pause on start

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car wont start ipd steering lock (3 pages)
Some discussion of striking SLU as temporary fix. Not much new here.
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Steering lock problem solved (for real) (30 pages)
Pull the fuse and a lot more. Great place to start.

Original, Q&D version of Pull The Fuse - Screenshot of FSM wiring diagram showing SL fuse - Screenshot of FSM drawing of IPDM location - Annotated FSM wiring diagram of SL fuse - Start of discussion about lost IPDM input/output - More IPDM I/O discussion - Pics of IPDM when removed and cover - Another pic of IPDM removed - Start pause in a fuse-intact 7AT - fritz weighs in - Summary of the 4 fixes - Fuse puller in LH kick panel - Detailed fuse removal instructions - Loose IPDM cover warning - Another fuse-intact with pause - Possible interaction with passenger air bag - (retracted later) - Excellent fuse removal DIY with great pics - No need to remove weatherstripping when doing fuse removal - Another fuse removal procedure

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How many of you have pulled the steering lock fuse? (3 pages + Poll)

Copy of the fuse removal procedure from another post (text only)

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Steering Lock: cut one wire. /switch optional (29 pages)
Cut the wire alternative to installing a harness. Harness discussion.

Original Cut The Wire DIY - FSM screenshots of SLU connector and other info - Explanation of how SLU works - Link to PDF of NH connector specs - Pics of NH connectors and part #s - Link to connector manufacturer - More connector links - bdl99 investigating building harness - bdl99's harness works - Pics of prototype harness - Link to pre-order harness - Pic of final harness and install video - Warning about removing fuse - Details on difference between harness/cut and fuse removal - Throttle response problem after installing harness - bdl99's take on harness vs fuse pull - Disabling SL may void theft insurance

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DIY Replace dreaded steering-lock on 2009s and early 2010s. (36 pages)
If your SLU has failed, replace it your self. Light on pics, but well-written and lots of info. Tips on how to "revive" a failed SLU. A good starting point.

Original DIY for replacing the SLU - Links to buy SLU and security bolts - Technical info on SLU workings - Link to GT-R SLU Recall PDF (NTB10-025-1) - No re-programming required when replacing SLU - No resetting/re-programming required after replacing SLU - DIY SLU repair with pics - Link to PDF with SLU microswitch specs - Another pic of SLU internals - SLU internal microswitches function - Steering Wheel in a bind may be causing SLU failures - Warning about SLU modifications Another SLU modification DIY

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Steering lock problem solved etc: but not "problems" (1 page)
Discussion of possible repercussions of disabling SLU.
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Replacing the steering lock assembly, help (1 page)
Does anything need to be reprogrammed after replacing SLU?

According to SPOHN, no

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Steering Lock: Cutting the Brownie (1 page)
Cut the wire DIY with lots of pics.
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DIY: Steering Wheel Lock Fix w/ Pics! (2 pages)
"Master DIY thread for the different steering wheel lock fixes" - a shorter version of this list

The List plus great Clip The Wire DIY with pics - Unsticking the SLU with percussion - Video of harness installation

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Edit:
Other posts I stumbled upon:
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WARNING! You may get stranded if you see this light. (1 page)
Nothing new.
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Intelligent Key System Warning Light... (22 pages)
Many reports of failed SLUs.

Link to a Corvette forum post about similar problem - Nissan part # and pic of SLU security bolt - SLU part #s and other info - Link to GT-R SLU replacement DIY - Pic of BCM

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Edit 2012-11-19:
More posts I found:
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New member with a question (1 page)
Does a new SLU have to be programmed? Apparently not.
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steering wheel lock (1 page)
Nothing new
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Well... (3 pages)
Nothing new
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Edit 2012-11-29:
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"key" light went on (4 pages)

Location of key indicator light

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Edit 2012-12-06 - Started adding link comments

Edit 2012-12-08:
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Z Looked Awesome on a Tow Truck (Sarcastic) (12 pages)

Link to NHTSA

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She's Dead, Jim (14 pages)

Link to buy SLU - Nissan e-mail addys - Form letter to media

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Engine not cranking... (5 pages)

DTCs related to SLU problem

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Edit 2012-12-09:
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Steering Lock entry and immobiliser delete (no photos) (1 page)

Info on Panasonic microswitches

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Horrible experience...!!! (6 pages)

Link to DIY for replacing SLU in GT-R

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Edit 2012-12-11:
You can download an OpenOffice spreadsheet (.ods) of all the ppl I have found on The370Z.com who have reported a failure of their SLU. SLU Failure Reports on The370Z.ods. So far I have found 50 ppl reporting failures in 3 topics and will be adding any others as I find them.

Edit 2012-12-12:
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Dreaded steering lock (1 page)
Another one bites the dust
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Edit 2012-13-14:
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Steering Lock Elimination (3 pages)
SLUs disappeared from 370Z in mid-2011. Some discussion about SLU technical details.
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Steering lock failure (1 page)

nurbrun reports failure. need to add to SS

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Steering lock repair (3 pages)
fritz offers to PM DIY for SLU repair

fritz offers to PM DIY for SLU repair

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Edit 2012-13-14:
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Car not starting (2 pages)
Tward's SLU dies
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.

scgolfer7 · 11-15-2012, 11:20 AM

I will work on making a comprehensive tutorial this weekend that sums up all of those posts, it can be a tad bit overwhelming to wade through all those when you have a potential $500 part looming in your future.

SouthArk370Z · 12-12-2012, 02:56 AM

Placeholder for list of SLU failures reported on The370Z.com.
Last edit: 2012-12-14 1710 USCentral

Edit: 2012-12-12:
Wow! List is up to 112 people with SLU failures on this site alone. BBCode does not have a good way to display the data, so it will be a while before I can post the data in tabular form.

Here's a link to the SS I'm using to collect the data:
Link to OpenOffice spreadsheet of SLU failures

I need all the help I can get verifying the data I already have and finding new cases of SLU failure.

Edit:2012-12-12:
I finally finished scanning the threads listed in the first post above. 117 112* reported SLU failures!
Use the link above to download the spreadsheet.
* Found some duplicates

Edit 2012-12-16:
Couldn't figure out a good way to display the table with BBCode.

You can see the data in tabular form at SLU Failure List

Notes section from SS:
I have no way to verify these reported failures.
The people who have disabled their SLUs skew the numbers
I have only searched the topics listed in my Links to posts about Steering Wheel Lock topic
Some of these may not actually be a SLU failure. I caught a few where the reporter later posted that the problem turned out not to be the SLU.
I may have misinterpreted some reports. If you see any errors, please let me know.

USDM cars produced until about July 2011

Code:

| Year  | Total  | Base  | B/Sport | Touring | T/Sport | 40th  | NISMO | 6MT    | 7AT    | Coupe  | Roadster | Navi  |
+-------+--------+-------+---------+---------+---------+-------+-------+--------+--------+--------+----------+-------+
| 2009  | 11,208 | 2,246 |   1,991 |   2,598 |   3,858 |     0 |   515 |  5,802 |  5,406 | 11,208 |        0 | 2,361 |
| 2010  | 10,991 | 2,079 |   1,204 |   2,554 |   3,451 | 1,014 |   689 |  5,200 |  5,791 |  6,583 |    4,408 | 2,753 |
| 2011  |  5,168 | 1,331 |     988 |     866 |   1,479 |     0 |   504 |  2,464 |  2,704 |  4,579 |      589 |   847 |
+-------+--------+-------+---------+---------+---------+-------+-------+--------+--------+--------+----------+-------+
| Total | 27,367 | 5,656 |   4,183 |   6,018 |   8,788 | 1,014 | 1,708 | 13,466 | 13,901 | 22,370 |    4,997 | 5,961 |

Edit 2012-12-14 1710:
Here's a list of the first 39 failure reports I found in Those of you-who have had steering lock failure

Code:

+-------+---------------+------+-------------------+-------+---------+---------+
| Post# | Name          | Year | Model             | Miles | SLU Rev | Report  |
|-------+---------------+------+-------------------+-------+---------|---------|
| 2     | McNasty       | 2009 | Base/Touring 7AT  | 23000 |         | 1502976 |
| 3     | KORRUPT       | 2009 |                   | 44000 | A       | 1503118 |
| 6     | Azroadster    | 2009 | Sport 7AT         | 30000 | A       | 1503278 |
| 7     | Jasonle       | 2009 | Touring 7AT       | 33000 |         | 1503307 |
| 14    | edge573       | 2009 | Base/Sport        | 25000 |         | 1503647 |
| 15    | bjblackout    | 2009 | Touring/Sport     | 15000 |         | 1503718 |
| 16    | NCSUPACK09    | 2010 | Base/Sport        | 17000 |         | 1503760 |
| 19    | onzedge       | 2010 | 40th?             | 26350 | C       | 1504168 |
| 20    | fritz         | 2010 | 6MT               | 11800 | B       | 1504435 |
| 21    | 370zproject   | 2009 | Touring/Sport 7AT | 23000 |         | 1508925 |
| 22    | jlittle370    | 2009 | Touring/Sport 7AT | 14000 |         | 1509693 |
| 23    | rtrono        | 2010 | 40th              | 23000 |         | 1510495 |
| 32    | jenny         | 2009 | Coupe             | 44000 |         | 1511296 |
| 35    | haggomyeggo   | 2009 | Touring/Sport     | 42000 |         | 1511715 |
| 36    | LSUTurboTiger | 2009 | Sport             | 31000 |         | 1511788 |
| 46    | 370guy        | 2009 |                   | 27000 | B       | 1512164 |
| 86    | azn370z       | 2010 |                   | 19970 | C       | 1624970 |
| 87    | Tino2fasT     | 2009 | Sport 7AT         | 47000 | A       | 1624997 |
| 108   | wsg           | 2009 | Touring           | 45000 |         | 1630529 |
| 109   | Hambone77     | 2009 | 6MT               | 33000 |         | 1640476 |
| 146   | JPnAZ         | 2009 | Base 6MT          | 48000 |         | 1939792 |
| 150   | bcr8ive       | 2009 | Touring/Sport/Nav | 43000 |         | 1952461 |
| 177   | Jetlag        | 2010 | 40th 6MT          | 39000 |         | 1958131 |
| 185   | Six           | 2009 | Touring 6MT       | 37000 | A       | 1960949 |
| 209   | kactussjack   | 2010 | Roadster 6MT      | 17500 | C       | 1979151 |
| 212   | ocfoilist     | 2009 | Sport/Touring 6MT | 54000 |         | 2005075 |
| 216   | Lucky1charm   | 2009 | Touring/Sport     | 23000 |         | 2016249 |
| 223   | scgolfer7     | 2009 | 6MT               |       |         | 2017412 |
| 227   | bfowlzr33     | 2009 | 6MT               | 55500 | B       | 2022327 |
| 228   | Astrosfan     | 2009 | Sport             |       |         | 2022733 |
| 247   | Crashley      | 2010 | 40th              | 25225 |         | 2024139 |
| 251   | jsimms243     | 2010 | 40th              | 39000 |         | 2025286 |
| 255   | cossie1600    |      |                   |       |         | 2032466 |
| 265   | fullmonty     | 2009 | Touring/Sport     | 18500 | A       | 2034253 |
| 294   | hot370z       |      |                   | 43065 |         | 2041454 |
| 295   | Amazingz03    | 2009 | 6MT               | 23000 |         | 2041545 |
| 305   | DropTopZ      | 2010 | Roadster          | 36000+|         | 2043980 |
| 307   | USMCASA       | 2009 | 6MT               |       |         | 2044082 |
| 333   | zentropy      | 2010 | Sport             |       |         | 2045390 |
+-------+---------------+------+-------------------+-------+---------+---------+

fullmonty · 12-12-2012, 08:58 AM

You're a beast! I'd give you more rep but it won't let me. This should be made a sticky

Jasonle · 12-12-2012, 09:03 AM

Thanks for making this! very helpful

SouthArk370Z · 12-12-2012, 03:31 PM

Some stats (most of which aren't very reliable or meaningful due to sampling methods and sample size) I gleaned from the SLU failure reports:
Last edit: 2012-12-13 1145 USCentral

2009 failure reports found - 72 (11208 made. Failure rate = 0.64%)
2010 failure reports found - 24 (10991 made. Failure rate = 0.22%)
2011 failure reports found - 2 (5168 made. Failure rate = 0.04%)
Year not known - 14
Total failure reports found - 112 (27367 made. Failure rate = 0.41%)

==========
Edit 2012-12-13:
33986 members on The370Z.com. I doubt if that number means much, but there it is if you want to use it.
==========

Miles on odometer when SLU failed:
0-5k - 0
5k-10k - 2
10k-15k - 3
15k-20k - 7
20k-25k - 6
25k-30k - 5
30k-35k - 3
35k-40k - 7
40k-45k - 9
45k-50k - 2
50k-55k - 3
55k-60k - 2
Unk/Other - 62

If we do a little more collapsing, it doesn't look like mileage has much to do with it:
0-10k - 2
10k-20k - 10
20k-30k - 11
30k-40k - 10
40k-50k - 11
50k-60k - 5

SouthArk370Z · 12-12-2012, 04:54 PM

Some Things I've Learned About SLUs While Researching This Thread
Last edit: 2012-12-14 1640 USCentral

If

1) your 370Z will not start nor go into ACC mode
AND
2) the Intelligent Key indicator (to left of multi-display, yellow-orange, says KEY above a pictogram of a key){1} is flashing
AND
3) you don't hear the whirr/buzz from under the steering wheel that normally happens when you press the start button. (Not 100% true. The SLU motor may run, but the lock may not retract all the way. If it does retract, the microswitches may not work properly. Judging by the reports I've read, most of time the motor fails.)
AND
4) Your 370Z is a 2009 through mid-2011

then your Steering Lock Unit (SLU) has failed. This is not uncommon on 2009 through mid-2011 370Zs (and a few other Nissan models, apparently). Nissan stopped using SLUs in 370Zs mid-2011 (IIRC, sometime around March-July).

There are many theories as to why the SLUs are failing. For the same part on their GT-R, Nissan claims the problem is over-oiling of the internals.
(links to theories of failure mechanism)

If this happens to you, the first thing to try is striking the SLU with the side of your fist, the toe of your shoe, rubber mallet, &c in an attempt to shake things loose. Then, while your car is being fixed, file a complaint with NHTSA and post your details in this thread.
(links to different "percussive" procedures)

If you can't get the lock to work by striking it, you'll need to call a tow truck.

If you manage to get the SLU to function again, don't think you've won the war - it will most likely fail again and soon. You have several options. At least one of these should be done ASAP as in "right now, before it leaves me stranded and kicking it doesn't help".

In no particular order: (insert links after each option)
* Have dealer replace SLU. If you are under warranty, this is a good option. If not under warranty, you are looking at a $900-1300 repair bill. At least one person has reported multiple failures, so you may want to consider using one of the following methods to disable the new SLU.
* DIY SLU replacement. A very easy job for an intermediate DIYer (even a beginner can handle the job if the right tools are available), but parts will run $500-800 and availability can be very limited. See multiple-failure warning above.
* Pull the fuse for the SLU. Very easy job for even a beginning DIYer, but removing the IPDM-E/R can be intimidating for a first-timer. Cost is zero. Only tools required are a small screwdriver or other pry tool for the plastic pop-rivets and a fuse puller (one is located in the 370Z footwell fuse panel)
* Purchase harness to disable SLU. Super-easy job for all but the most inept. No tools required. Includes option to disable functioning SLU in locked position, via a hidden switch, for extra security or inspections. ~$50 when available.
* Clip power wire at SLU connector. Clipping the wire is very easy to do, but insulating the resulting wire ends may be difficult for a beginner. Next to impossible to put back to factory condition once you clip it (it can be fixed electrically, but not cosmetically). No cost if you have some wire-cutters and something to insulate the cut ends in your tool-box.

* Note: with all the disabling methods above, power should be cut only after assuring that the lock is in the unlocked position.

==========
Bibliography:
DIY: Replace dreaded steering-lock on 2009s and early 2010s.
More here...
==========
{1} http://www.xenonz34.com/warninglamps.html

SouthArk370Z · 12-16-2012, 05:59 PM

Couldn't figure out a good way to display the table of reported SLU failures with BBCode.

You can see the data in tabular form at SLU Failure List

Gunzero · 01-02-2013, 03:33 AM

Thank you so much!

Akbubba47 · 01-02-2013, 04:36 AM

I'm bumping this because my car has 68k miles and I'm going to pull this fuse this week. Lol

blackbird · 01-26-2013, 07:54 PM

I had a SLU failure. 45,000+ miles. Fixed at dealer for $936.76. Complained to NHTSA. Sent E-mail to Nissan USA. Long time buyer. This my last buy etc. Nissan rep called me. Took down info and said someone with call me. 10 days later no call. Sent second e-mail. Got called that day by rep who had just received 1st e-mail (and also 2nd). he said he would look int it and get back to me. The call back day came and he called. He had info from Dealer and was pushing it up e ladder. I will get more info Jan. 30th. COMPLAIN TO NHTSA - E-MAIL NISSAN USA. Nissan recalled the GTRs because they said those were the type of owners to complain to NHTSA. Go for it.

KyleBucket · 02-04-2013, 02:14 PM

I filed a complaint through the link provided and it seems my rants via Twitter have been noticed. Hopefully they are for not just me, but everyone else that has experienced this issue. My dad said the woman said "yes, @NissanSupport showed your son's tweets. Safe to say he's a little upset and understandably so." I continue to message Nissan Supports twitter telling them this MUST be looked into further and they seem to be quite understanding...but I'm certainly not getting my hopes up. Just throwing it out there that your voice is "seen (in this case)" and if you bitch enough, it may work out.

Btw, mind costed $1,080 to fix. What a scam.

lbcary 370Z · 04-06-2013, 01:33 PM

What did Nissan do to the late 2011 & 2012 370Z's that fixed the problem? I read that only the 2009-early2011 Z owners have the problems. Or am i wrong & the newer Zs have the same issue, but they're still too new & low mileage enough to not experience the problem yet? Just curious if my 2012 base 370Z with the sport package, Nismo R-Tune, long-tube, Cold Air Intake,& ARK Grip true dual cat-back exhaust. Just wondering if i need to do any preventative maintenance so my car will always reliably start.

DEpointfive0 · 04-06-2013, 02:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lbcary 370Z

What did Nissan do to the late 2011 & 2012 370Z's that fixed the problem? I read that only the 2009-early2011 Z owners have the problems. Or am i wrong & the newer Zs have the same issue, but they're still too new & low mileage enough to not experience the problem yet? Just curious if my 2012 base 370Z with the sport package, Nismo R-Tune, long-tube, Cold Air Intake,& ARK Grip true dual cat-back exhaust. Just wondering if i need to do any preventative maintenance so my car will always reliably start.

They took it out... Literally

SouthArk370Z · 04-06-2013, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lbcary 370Z

What did Nissan do to the late 2011 & 2012 370Z's that fixed the problem? I read that only the 2009-early2011 Z owners have the problems. Or am i wrong & the newer Zs have the same issue, but they're still too new & low mileage enough to not experience the problem yet? Just curious if my 2012 base 370Z with the sport package, Nismo R-Tune, long-tube, Cold Air Intake,& ARK Grip true dual cat-back exhaust. Just wondering if i need to do any preventative maintenance so my car will always reliably start.

As DE-1/2 said, Nissan quit installing SLUs (ESCL in Nissanese) during the 2011 MY, so you don't have anything to worry about - you don't have one.

11-15-2012, 10:27 AM	#1 (permalink)
SouthArk370Z Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 8,435 Drives: 2014 Challenger Rep Power: 324198	Links to posts about Steering Wheel Lock Seems that a lot of people are having Steering Lock problems. Here's a list of posts that discuss the issue and how to prevent/fix it. I hope this will help those having Steering Lock problems and those trying to help them. I found these by using the site search and looking for "lock", then wading through the 500 hits. They are listed in the order I found them. If you find any more, please add a comment. Number of pages accurate as of 2012-12-08. Links in italic are posts I think are most informative. Last edit: 2012-12-14 1135 USCentral -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Those of you who have had Steering Lock Failure (24 pages) If your Steering Lock has failed, please post here and then file a complaint at NHTSA. Better yet, file a complaint and then post here. Lots of good info if you have the time. Link to NHTSA for filing complaint - Link to purchase new SLU - DTC thrown is B261F - Tips from fritz - Link to purchase bypass harness - MelloYello counts 33 members with SLU failure - No SL in 2012 and newer 370Zs - Name and current rating of SL fuse - Pics of opened IPDM and cover - TSB for re-programming BCM (NTB12-041 dated April 27, 2012) - Nissan list of affected vehicles - SL fuse not related to pause on start -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- car wont start ipd steering lock (3 pages) Some discussion of striking SLU as temporary fix. Not much new here. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering lock problem solved (for real) (30 pages) Pull the fuse and a lot more. Great place to start. Original, Q&D version of Pull The Fuse - Screenshot of FSM wiring diagram showing SL fuse - Screenshot of FSM drawing of IPDM location - Annotated FSM wiring diagram of SL fuse - Start of discussion about lost IPDM input/output - More IPDM I/O discussion - Pics of IPDM when removed and cover - Another pic of IPDM removed - Start pause in a fuse-intact 7AT - fritz weighs in - Summary of the 4 fixes - Fuse puller in LH kick panel - Detailed fuse removal instructions - Loose IPDM cover warning - Another fuse-intact with pause - Possible interaction with passenger air bag - (retracted later) - Excellent fuse removal DIY with great pics - No need to remove weatherstripping when doing fuse removal - Another fuse removal procedure -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- How many of you have pulled the steering lock fuse? (3 pages + Poll) Copy of the fuse removal procedure from another post (text only) -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering Lock: cut one wire. /switch optional (29 pages) Cut the wire alternative to installing a harness. Harness discussion. Original Cut The Wire DIY - FSM screenshots of SLU connector and other info - Explanation of how SLU works - Link to PDF of NH connector specs - Pics of NH connectors and part #s - Link to connector manufacturer - More connector links - bdl99 investigating building harness - bdl99's harness works - Pics of prototype harness - Link to pre-order harness - Pic of final harness and install video - Warning about removing fuse - Details on difference between harness/cut and fuse removal - Throttle response problem after installing harness - bdl99's take on harness vs fuse pull - Disabling SL may void theft insurance -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- DIY Replace dreaded steering-lock on 2009s and early 2010s. (36 pages) If your SLU has failed, replace it your self. Light on pics, but well-written and lots of info. Tips on how to "revive" a failed SLU. A good starting point. Original DIY for replacing the SLU - Links to buy SLU and security bolts - Technical info on SLU workings - Link to GT-R SLU Recall PDF (NTB10-025-1) - No re-programming required when replacing SLU - No resetting/re-programming required after replacing SLU - DIY SLU repair with pics - Link to PDF with SLU microswitch specs - Another pic of SLU internals - SLU internal microswitches function - Steering Wheel in a bind may be causing SLU failures - Warning about SLU modifications Another SLU modification DIY -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering lock problem solved etc: but not "problems" (1 page) Discussion of possible repercussions of disabling SLU. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Replacing the steering lock assembly, help (1 page) Does anything need to be reprogrammed after replacing SLU? According to SPOHN, no -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering Lock: Cutting the Brownie (1 page) Cut the wire DIY with lots of pics. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- DIY: Steering Wheel Lock Fix w/ Pics! (2 pages) "Master DIY thread for the different steering wheel lock fixes" - a shorter version of this list The List plus great Clip The Wire DIY with pics - Unsticking the SLU with percussion - Video of harness installation -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit: Other posts I stumbled upon: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- WARNING! You may get stranded if you see this light. (1 page) Nothing new. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Intelligent Key System Warning Light... (22 pages) Many reports of failed SLUs. Link to a Corvette forum post about similar problem - Nissan part # and pic of SLU security bolt - SLU part #s and other info - Link to GT-R SLU replacement DIY - Pic of BCM -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-11-19: More posts I found: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- New member with a question (1 page) Does a new SLU have to be programmed? Apparently not. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- steering wheel lock (1 page) Nothing new -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Well... (3 pages) Nothing new -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-11-29: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- "key" light went on (4 pages) Location of key indicator light -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-12-06 - Started adding link comments Edit 2012-12-08: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Z Looked Awesome on a Tow Truck (Sarcastic) (12 pages) Link to NHTSA -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- She's Dead, Jim (14 pages) Link to buy SLU - Nissan e-mail addys - Form letter to media -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Engine not cranking... (5 pages) DTCs related to SLU problem -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-12-09: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering Lock entry and immobiliser delete (no photos) (1 page) Info on Panasonic microswitches -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Horrible experience...!!! (6 pages) Link to DIY for replacing SLU in GT-R -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-12-11: You can download an OpenOffice spreadsheet (.ods) of all the ppl I have found on The370Z.com who have reported a failure of their SLU. SLU Failure Reports on The370Z.ods. So far I have found 50 ppl reporting failures in 3 topics and will be adding any others as I find them. Edit 2012-12-12: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Dreaded steering lock (1 page) Another one bites the dust -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-13-14: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering Lock Elimination (3 pages) SLUs disappeared from 370Z in mid-2011. Some discussion about SLU technical details. -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering lock failure (1 page) nurbrun reports failure. need to add to SS -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Steering lock repair (3 pages) fritz offers to PM DIY for SLU repair fritz offers to PM DIY for SLU repair -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Edit 2012-13-14: -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- Car not starting (2 pages) Tward's SLU dies -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- -=+=- . cheshirecat, albertu, ZForce and 3 others like this. __________________ Steering Lock Links - Search The370Z Bookmarklet - FSM @ NICOclub Mankind has progressed past the need for war but we haven't evolved that far. - NachoMahma Last edited by SouthArk370Z; 12-14-2012 at 12:43 PM.

11-15-2012, 11:20 AM	#2 (permalink)
scgolfer7 Base Member Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Tulsa, OK Posts: 59 Drives: 09 Z Yellow 6MT Rep Power: 13	I will work on making a comprehensive tutorial this weekend that sums up all of those posts, it can be a tad bit overwhelming to wade through all those when you have a potential $500 part looming in your future. SouthArk370Z and DEpointfive0 like this.

12-12-2012, 08:58 AM	#4 (permalink)
fullmonty A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Dirty Jersey Posts: 7,762 Drives: 370 Touring/Sport Rep Power: 34	You're a beast! I'd give you more rep but it won't let me. This should be made a sticky SouthArk370Z, BeemaaZ and DEpointfive0 like this. __________________

12-12-2012, 09:03 AM	#5 (permalink)
Jasonle A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: St. Louis Posts: 3,509 Drives: 09 370z Rep Power: 25	Thanks for making this! very helpful SouthArk370Z likes this. __________________ 2009 Nissan 370z/2003 Honda Soccer Van Shineauto Amuse Body Kit/UAM Fenders/Bc Br Coilovers/Topspeed Exhaust/Racing Hart Wheels and More My Sexy Beast

12-12-2012, 03:31 PM	#6 (permalink)
SouthArk370Z Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 8,435 Drives: 2014 Challenger Rep Power: 324198	SLU Failure Stats Some stats (most of which aren't very reliable or meaningful due to sampling methods and sample size) I gleaned from the SLU failure reports: Last edit: 2012-12-13 1145 USCentral 2009 failure reports found - 72 (11208 made. Failure rate = 0.64%) 2010 failure reports found - 24 (10991 made. Failure rate = 0.22%) 2011 failure reports found - 2 (5168 made. Failure rate = 0.04%) Year not known - 14 Total failure reports found - 112 (27367 made. Failure rate = 0.41%) ========== Edit 2012-12-13: 33986 members on The370Z.com. I doubt if that number means much, but there it is if you want to use it. ========== Miles on odometer when SLU failed: 0-5k - 0 5k-10k - 2 10k-15k - 3 15k-20k - 7 20k-25k - 6 25k-30k - 5 30k-35k - 3 35k-40k - 7 40k-45k - 9 45k-50k - 2 50k-55k - 3 55k-60k - 2 Unk/Other - 62 If we do a little more collapsing, it doesn't look like mileage has much to do with it: 0-10k - 2 10k-20k - 10 20k-30k - 11 30k-40k - 10 40k-50k - 11 50k-60k - 5 DEpointfive0 likes this. __________________ Steering Lock Links - Search The370Z Bookmarklet - FSM @ NICOclub Mankind has progressed past the need for war but we haven't evolved that far. - NachoMahma Last edited by SouthArk370Z; 12-14-2012 at 03:26 AM.

12-12-2012, 04:54 PM	#7 (permalink)
SouthArk370Z Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 8,435 Drives: 2014 Challenger Rep Power: 324198	Some Things I've Learned About SLUs While Researching This Thread Some Things I've Learned About SLUs While Researching This Thread Last edit: 2012-12-14 1640 USCentral If 1) your 370Z will not start nor go into ACC mode AND 2) the Intelligent Key indicator (to left of multi-display, yellow-orange, says KEY above a pictogram of a key){1} is flashing AND 3) you don't hear the whirr/buzz from under the steering wheel that normally happens when you press the start button. (Not 100% true. The SLU motor may run, but the lock may not retract all the way. If it does retract, the microswitches may not work properly. Judging by the reports I've read, most of time the motor fails.) AND 4) Your 370Z is a 2009 through mid-2011 then your Steering Lock Unit (SLU) has failed. This is not uncommon on 2009 through mid-2011 370Zs (and a few other Nissan models, apparently). Nissan stopped using SLUs in 370Zs mid-2011 (IIRC, sometime around March-July). There are many theories as to why the SLUs are failing. For the same part on their GT-R, Nissan claims the problem is over-oiling of the internals. (links to theories of failure mechanism) If this happens to you, the first thing to try is striking the SLU with the side of your fist, the toe of your shoe, rubber mallet, &c in an attempt to shake things loose. Then, while your car is being fixed, file a complaint with NHTSA and post your details in this thread. (links to different "percussive" procedures) If you can't get the lock to work by striking it, you'll need to call a tow truck. If you manage to get the SLU to function again, don't think you've won the war - it will most likely fail again and soon. You have several options. At least one of these should be done ASAP as in "right now, before it leaves me stranded and kicking it doesn't help". In no particular order: (insert links after each option) * Have dealer replace SLU. If you are under warranty, this is a good option. If not under warranty, you are looking at a $900-1300 repair bill. At least one person has reported multiple failures, so you may want to consider using one of the following methods to disable the new SLU. * DIY SLU replacement. A very easy job for an intermediate DIYer (even a beginner can handle the job if the right tools are available), but parts will run $500-800 and availability can be very limited. See multiple-failure warning above. * Pull the fuse for the SLU. Very easy job for even a beginning DIYer, but removing the IPDM-E/R can be intimidating for a first-timer. Cost is zero. Only tools required are a small screwdriver or other pry tool for the plastic pop-rivets and a fuse puller (one is located in the 370Z footwell fuse panel) * Purchase harness to disable SLU. Super-easy job for all but the most inept. No tools required. Includes option to disable functioning SLU in locked position, via a hidden switch, for extra security or inspections. ~$50 when available. * Clip power wire at SLU connector. Clipping the wire is very easy to do, but insulating the resulting wire ends may be difficult for a beginner. Next to impossible to put back to factory condition once you clip it (it can be fixed electrically, but not cosmetically). No cost if you have some wire-cutters and something to insulate the cut ends in your tool-box. * Note: with all the disabling methods above, power should be cut only after assuring that the lock is in the unlocked position. ========== Bibliography: DIY: Replace dreaded steering-lock on 2009s and early 2010s. More here... ========== {1} http://www.xenonz34.com/warninglamps.html __________________ Steering Lock Links - Search The370Z Bookmarklet - FSM @ NICOclub Mankind has progressed past the need for war but we haven't evolved that far. - NachoMahma Last edited by SouthArk370Z; 12-16-2012 at 01:06 AM.

12-16-2012, 05:59 PM	#8 (permalink)
SouthArk370Z Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 8,435 Drives: 2014 Challenger Rep Power: 324198	Couldn't figure out a good way to display the table of reported SLU failures with BBCode. You can see the data in tabular form at SLU Failure List __________________ Steering Lock Links - Search The370Z Bookmarklet - FSM @ NICOclub Mankind has progressed past the need for war but we haven't evolved that far. - NachoMahma

01-02-2013, 03:33 AM	#9 (permalink)
Gunzero Track Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Texas Posts: 889 Drives: Nissan 370z Rep Power: 259	Thank you so much! __________________

01-02-2013, 04:36 AM	#10 (permalink)
Akbubba47 Enthusiast Member Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Fort Lee NJ Posts: 304 Drives: 2009 PW 6sp touring Rep Power: 12	I'm bumping this because my car has 68k miles and I'm going to pull this fuse this week. Lol __________________ 2009 PW Touring. 6sp, Volk TE37's, MXP catback, and high flow cats.

01-26-2013, 07:54 PM	#11 (permalink)
blackbird Base Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Nashua NH Posts: 179 Drives: 09 370Z BLk GTM TT Rep Power: 16	I had a SLU failure. 45,000+ miles. Fixed at dealer for $936.76. Complained to NHTSA. Sent E-mail to Nissan USA. Long time buyer. This my last buy etc. Nissan rep called me. Took down info and said someone with call me. 10 days later no call. Sent second e-mail. Got called that day by rep who had just received 1st e-mail (and also 2nd). he said he would look int it and get back to me. The call back day came and he called. He had info from Dealer and was pushing it up e ladder. I will get more info Jan. 30th. COMPLAIN TO NHTSA - E-MAIL NISSAN USA. Nissan recalled the GTRs because they said those were the type of owners to complain to NHTSA. Go for it.

02-04-2013, 02:14 PM	#12 (permalink)
KyleBucket Base Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: DE/NJ Age: 35 Posts: 160 Drives: '14 Mercedes CLA 250 Rep Power: 16	I filed a complaint through the link provided and it seems my rants via Twitter have been noticed. Hopefully they are for not just me, but everyone else that has experienced this issue. My dad said the woman said "yes, @NissanSupport showed your son's tweets. Safe to say he's a little upset and understandably so." I continue to message Nissan Supports twitter telling them this MUST be looked into further and they seem to be quite understanding...but I'm certainly not getting my hopes up. Just throwing it out there that your voice is "seen (in this case)" and if you bitch enough, it may work out. Btw, mind costed $1,080 to fix. What a scam. __________________

04-06-2013, 01:33 PM	#13 (permalink)
lbcary 370Z Base Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 7 Drives: 2012 370Z Sport pkg Rep Power: 12	What did Nissan do to the late 2011 & 2012 370Z's that fixed the problem? I read that only the 2009-early2011 Z owners have the problems. Or am i wrong & the newer Zs have the same issue, but they're still too new & low mileage enough to not experience the problem yet? Just curious if my 2012 base 370Z with the sport package, Nismo R-Tune, long-tube, Cold Air Intake,& ARK Grip true dual cat-back exhaust. Just wondering if i need to do any preventative maintenance so my car will always reliably start.

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