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