Steering Lock Unit failure fix guide in the Nissan 370Z Z34 and Nissan GT-R R35

The Steering Lock failure in the Nissan Z34 370z and Nissan GT-R R35 typically presents as an inability to start the vehicle. This issue is often attributed to a malfunction in the steering lock unit, which is a security feature that locks the steering wheel when the car is turned off. In USA Nissan initiated a Voluntary Service Campaign - VSC (Campaign ID P3208) to replace the steering lock assembly in these vehicles. The issue arises from excessive oil within the assembly, potentially preventing the engine from starting when the ignition is cycled. However, it does not affect steering or engine operation while the vehicle is running. According to Nissan USA, there is no time limit on the campaign and there is no upper limit on the mileage of the car.

In the UK, Nissan GB's Warranty department does not officially recognise the Steering Lock Unit issue in the Nissan 370Z and the GT-R R35 as a recall problem, thus typically not covering it under warranty. However, some customers have successfully had their vehicles covered under warranty after persistently advocating for themselves with various Nissan dealers across the UK and involving Nissan GB customer service department directly. These cases are exceptions rather than the rule and generally, Nissan dealers in the UK are not aware of this issue. Owners often need to present documents from Nissan USA to inform and persuade the dealers about the problem and the associated service procedures.

Some Nissan 370Z owners have shared a workaround for when the steering lock activates and prevents the car from starting. This method involves physically manipulating the steering lock by shaking, wiggling and even lightly tapping it with a small object like a hammer or screwdriver. The idea is to dislodge any stuck components inside the lock unit. Additionally, applying heat using a heat gun or hairdryer, especially in cold conditions, can sometimes help. Once the lock is disengaged, some owners suggest pulling the fuse to prevent the issue from recurring, potentially saving time and money. This approach is based on the understanding that over-lubrication inside the unit can cause failure in certain internal parts of the lock, leading to this issue.

If you're unable to get Nissan GB via one of their Nissan dealers to accept this as a warranty claim, here are the 10 easy steps required to fix this issue permanently using the updated part number:

1. Purchase the new updated part from TORQEN - 48700-1NC3A
2. Turn off the ignition.
3. Disconnect the battery to ensure safety.
4. Remove the left side instrument lower panel and the metal knee panel.
5. Locate and unbolt the old steering lock unit from the steering column. Disconnect the harness and remove the old steering lock unit.
6. Installing the new updated steering lock unit and reconnecting the electrical connector. The part numbers were superseded in this sequence: 48700-JF00A —> 48700-JF00B —> 48700-JF00C —> 48700-JF00D —> 48700-1NC1A —> 48700-1NC2A —> 48700-1NC3A, so you will need the latest version - 48700-1NC3A
7. Bolt it back and reconnect the wiring harness.
8. Test by turning the ignition on and off to confirm the steering locks and unlocks appropriately.
9. Reinstall all removed parts.
10. If possible, using diagnostic OBD tools, check and clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

This should take you less than 1 hr labour time and fix the issue for good.