Ignition is locked in the 0-Lock?

GMONEYYY

MEMBER
2014 NISSAN XTERRA
4.0L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
250,000 MILES

Mother turned vehicle off while still in drive, then used the shift lock release to put it back into park to re start it, now the ignition is locked in the 0-Lock positions and steering wheel is locked. Tried wiggling the wheel and turning the key did not work, also tried disconnecting the battery to reset the anti theft light but did not work

Thursday, August 14th, 2025 AT 11:38 AM

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
54,137 POSTS

It sounds like the ignition switch has failed. The reason I say this is no matter what you should be able to turn the ignition key, if not but just a little, but it sounds like you can even do that correct? If so here is how to change the ignition tumbler out. It might have "shear" bolts which do not have a head on them so you need to use a sharp chisel to "catch" the corner of the bolt to loosen it. The book gets 2.2 hours so be ready, it will take longer FYI. Keep the parking brake on while do the job, if you have problem please unload and images or a short video of the problem so I can help. Please go over this guide, it might help us.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

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Friday, August 15th, 2025 AT 12:43 PM