2009-2010 Nissan GT-R Column Switch, Clock Spring, and Steering Lock Issues
This guide covers the common failures of the steering column assembly, including the clock spring and electronic steering lock, and explains a critical safety recall.
- A faulty clock spring is the most common cause of failure, leading to an airbag warning light and inoperative steering wheel buttons.
- A critical safety recall (NHTSA 15V054000) affects some 2009 GT-R models and can cause a loss of steering. Verify this recall has been performed.
- A separate issue with the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) can prevent the car from starting and was covered by a service campaign.
- When buying a used part, ensure the clock spring is locked in its centered position to prevent damage.
Understanding the GT-R's Steering Column Components
When diagnosing issues in the steering column of a 2009-2010 Nissan GT-R, it's important to understand the different parts involved. The 'column switch' generally refers to the complete assembly that includes the turn signal/headlight stalk and the wiper stalk. However, many common electrical problems are actually caused by the integrated clock spring (also called a spiral cable), which is part of this assembly. A third, separate issue involves the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL), which can prevent the car from starting.
This article will cover the symptoms, recalls, and replacement considerations for all of these related components.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Campaigns
Safety Recall: Steering Column Assembly (NHTSA 15V054000)
Warning: A critical safety recall was issued for some 2009 Nissan GT-R models manufactured between March 14, 2007, and April 25, 2008. Due to a manufacturing defect, the steering column's outer tube could cause stress on a bearing, leading to a fracture. This could result in excessive play in the steering wheel or, in extreme cases, a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash. The remedy is a full replacement of the steering column assembly by a certified Nissan GT-R dealer, free of charge. Before purchasing a 2009 GT-R or any related steering parts, it is essential to verify with a Nissan dealer if this recall has been completed.
Voluntary Service Campaign: Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL)
🎬 Watch a video on how to deal with a stuck GT-R steering lockNissan also issued a voluntary service campaign (ID P3208) for certain 2009-2010 GT-R models for a malfunctioning Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) unit. A fault in this unit could prevent the engine from starting. This issue does not occur while driving, only when attempting to start the vehicle. Dealers were instructed to replace the ESCL unit at no cost to the customer. A symptom of this failure is the Intelligent Key Warning Lamp illuminating on the dash when the car fails to start.
Symptoms of Failure
Failures in the steering column assembly typically trace back to either the clock spring or the physical switch stalks.
Symptoms of a Bad Clock Spring
- Airbag Warning Light: This is the most serious symptom. A break in the clock spring's internal wiring will sever the connection to the driver's airbag, causing the system to fail its self-test and illuminate the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warning light on the dashboard. This means the driver's airbag will not deploy in a crash.
- Inoperative Steering Wheel Buttons: The cruise control, audio volume, and other buttons mounted on the steering wheel may stop working intermittently or altogether.
- Horn Not Working: The horn may fail to sound, or only work when the steering wheel is in a specific position.
- Scratching or Rubbing Noises: A grinding or clicking sound may be heard from within the steering column as the wheel is turned, indicating the internal ribbon is binding or broken.
Symptoms of a Bad Combination Switch (Stalks)
- Turn signals do not activate or fail to cancel after a turn.
- Headlights or high beams do not turn on, or flicker.
- Windshield wipers operate erratically, won't turn on, or won't switch speeds.
Buying a Used Column Switch Assembly
Buying a used column switch assembly for a GT-R can be a cost-effective solution, but careful inspection is crucial, especially regarding the clock spring.
- Verify Part Numbers: The primary part numbers for the 2009-2010 GT-R are 25560-JF10A (often listed as the combination switch/lever assembly) and 25550-JF00A (sometimes listed as the cruise control switch, but appears to be part of the main assembly). Always match the part number from your original unit.
- Inspect the Clock Spring Lock: A new or properly handled used clock spring will have a locking tab in place to keep it from rotating during shipping. If this tab is missing and the clock spring has been spun, its internal ribbon is likely damaged, and the part is useless. Do not purchase a used clock spring that spins freely.
- Check the Stalks: Physically inspect the turn signal and wiper stalks for cracks, excessive looseness, or damage. Ensure the white markings for the functions are clear and not worn away.
- Examine Electrical Connectors: Look for any bent, broken, or corroded pins in the electrical connectors. The plastic housings should be free of cracks.
- Question the Seller: Ask the seller if the part was tested before removal and if it came from a vehicle that had a functioning horn and no airbag light. A part pulled from a wrecked vehicle carries a higher risk of unseen damage.
Cost Comparison
Prices for steering column components can vary significantly. The clock spring is often the most expensive individual part within the assembly.
| Part | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Combination Switch/Clock Spring Assembly (e.g., 25560-JF10A) | $850 - $1400+ |
| New OEM Clock Spring Only (if available separately) | $280 - $400 |
| Used OEM Assembly | $50 - $250 |
| Shop Labor to Replace | $150 - $300 |
Replacement Overview & Difficulty
Replacing the column switch and clock spring assembly is a moderately difficult task that requires careful attention to safety procedures due to the airbag system.
- Difficulty: 3 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.0 hours
- DIY Feasible: Yes, for experienced mechanics comfortable with airbag systems.
Warning: You MUST disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait at least 3-5 minutes before beginning any work. This is to allow the airbag system's backup power to discharge, preventing accidental deployment.
General Steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Remove the driver's side airbag module from the steering wheel.
- Remove the center steering wheel nut and use a steering wheel puller to remove the wheel.
- Remove the plastic shrouds covering the steering column.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors from the combination switch assembly.
- Unscrew and remove the old assembly.
- Install the new assembly, ensuring the new clock spring is perfectly centered. Failure to center it will cause it to break on the first full turn of the steering wheel.
- Reassemble in reverse order, making sure to torque the steering wheel nut to factory specifications.
- After replacement, a steering angle sensor neutral position adjustment may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a clock spring and why does it fail?
A clock spring, or spiral cable, is a coil of wire that allows the steering wheel to turn while maintaining electrical contact with the airbag, horn, and steering wheel buttons. It fails because the constant flexing and turning of the steering wheel can cause the internal wires to fatigue and break over time.
Is it safe to drive with a bad clock spring?
No. While the vehicle may still drive, a bad clock spring disables the driver's side airbag, which is a critical safety feature. Driving without a functional horn or turn signals can also be unsafe and illegal.
Can I just replace the clock spring instead of the whole combination switch?
In some cases, yes. The clock spring can sometimes be purchased as a separate part. However, the combination switch and clock spring are often sold as a single assembly (part number 25560-JF10A). Given the labor involved, replacing the entire unit can be a good preventative measure.
My car won't start and the 'KEY' light is on. Is this the column switch?
This is more likely related to the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) unit, which was subject to a service campaign. A failure in this lock can prevent the car from recognizing the key and allowing the engine to start.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 25560-JF10A 25560JF10A 25550-JF00A 25550JF00A
The assembly includes the combination switch for headlights, turn signals, and wipers, as well as the integrated clock spring (spiral cable).
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan GT-R:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- Understanding the GT-R's Steering Column Components
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Campaigns
- Safety Recall: Steering Column Assembly (NHTSA 15V054000)
- Voluntary Service Campaign: Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL)
- Symptoms of Failure
- Symptoms of a Bad Clock Spring
- Symptoms of a Bad Combination Switch (Stalks)
- Buying a Used Column Switch Assembly
- Cost Comparison
- Replacement Overview & Difficulty
- Frequently Asked Questions
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