Steering Lock ... a question

[Robi]

Is Steering Lock is it different on the V. ? On my Maxima when I take the key out the steering wheel locks in a set position. This is not the case with my Versa and I am wondering if I need to have this on my list when I go in for my first service. So far it would be the only thing.

[BenzTech Gone Versa]

I think the V doesn't have one.I was putting on the club yeterday and i was able to move the steering when with out the key to position the club!

[Robi]

Thanks for the reply ... I was thinking it must be something like that. When I call the dealership they said I should turn the steering wheel until it locks but with the Max it just takes a small movement to lock it.

[michelkenny]

I can also turn mine when I take the key out. Haven't tried to move it until it locks though, because I didn't really care at the time. But just to let you know that they do move.

[Legacy40k]

I would guess that the wheels don't turn though since without the engine running, there is no power to power the electronically controlled steering on the Versa.

[michelkenny]

I would guess that the wheels don't turn though since without the engine running, there is no power to power the electronically controlled steering on the Versa.

I think I remember seeing the wheels move a bit... It was my understanding that without power steering, you can still turn the wheels, it is just much harder.

[proxim2020]

I'd suspect the same thing. Even though the car is parked, you should still be able to turn the wheel if there's no lock. It just takes a lot of force and there's a chance you'll break something if you're not careful.

[motoguy128]

You won't break anything. Without the engien running, the steering works the same as a car without power steering. The steering wheel turn a shaft that rotates the pinion gear on the steering rack (ie. rack and pinion steering). I can guarantee that the lawyers ensures that the steering mechanism is strong enough to withstand the force of turning the wheels without power assist. The tie rods and rack itself can't tell the difference. The power assist is applied to the steering rack directly. The power assist is a small DC motor (probably a brushless permanent magnet motor... similar ot a servo motor).

On topic... I've never use the steering column lock on any car I've owned. Seems like more of a nuisance than anything else. I always use it on my motorcycles since thye culd be easily carted off without it.