I posted up a few months ago wondering about the steering wheel lock on other Maximas. Mine doesn't lock and never has.

In the 2009 FSM, there's mention of the steering wheel lock and whatnot. In the 2010 FSM, there are numerous places where it states:

"Precautions Necessary for Steering Wheel Rotation after Battery Disconnect (Early
Production, With Electronic Steering Column Lock) INFOID:0000000005885971"

So, apparently early 10 models and beyond don't have a steering wheel lock at all. Wonder how Nissan can get away with that. It's a security AND safety feature.

Late,
Trav

 

no steering lock, tow hooks...

 

I believe this was in direct correlation to the defective steering wheel lock solenoids in the 2009-2010 Z's, G's, and GTR's. Since all those cars, plus ours and the Altima use the exact same ignition system and steering column (minus the GTR), they felt it was just easier to remove the steering wheel lock.

My 2010 Maxima (built in Sept 2009) had a steering wheel lock, however my new 2011 doesn't.