Versa Turning (Right) Problem - Steering Column!

[vpnavy]

I've been watching a lot of threads across the net. I came across a problem (4 people have the same apparent problem. 2 problems identified and 2 still waiting for the outcome) affecting our Versa's.

Problem: Versa makes a slight "thunk" noise when making slow right hand turns.

Solution: Steering Column Replacement

Explanation: No explanation. This is covered by your warranty.

Interim Solution: A loaner was provided.

[jhoughto]

I am noticing the same problem. I can also feel it in the steering wheel. Just started around 12,000 miles. I have 14,000 miles now. It seems more prevelant when I have just started my car and leaving a parking lot or driveway. After driving awhile I don't notice it.


2007 Versa

[vpnavy]

Originally Posted by jhoughto

I am noticing the same problem. I can also feel it in the steering wheel. Just started around 12,000 miles. I have 14,000 miles now. It seems more prevelant when I have just started my car and leaving a parking lot or driveway. After driving awhile I don't notice it.


2007 Versa

Let us know what your dealer finds.

[South Dakota]

2007 VERSA, Not even a YEAR Old.

1) The Radio Failed in the 1st month, the DEALER replaced it.

2) The GAS cap never fits right, it'll go on crooked because of poor Threads in the Plastic Cap. The Dealer grabbed one off a new car and stuck it on there. The new caps will do it too, when you screw it on, The Gas Tank looses pressure in the system, the Error Codes Light POPS up on the Dash, you have to go to the Dealer, to have the CODES reset or buy yourself a glove Compartment OBD II code reader. $39.95...

3) The Steering SQUEEKS when turned to the Left(sitting Still or Parked), we just bought this car last year, have about 9000 miles on it. Now we see they are running the Versa on sale.

4) $15000.00 ($1000.00 free Gas Credit, now with Lifetime Oil Changes) we're going dump this thing before anything else craps on it.

It's a Throw-Away Society.

[jhoughto]

First, sorry it has taken so long to post.:(

Before I was able to get the Versa to the dealer I was starting to get a vibration in the steering wheel. I had the tires rotated and balanced from an independent shop which helped a little, but still had a vibration in the steering wheel.

I took the Versa to the dealer about a month ago for an oil change, the vibration, the steering popping sound, and another problem "The clutch started popping when releasing it from first gear." (It was a metal on metal sound.)

For the first two problems they said they thought is was the power steering pump and that they would replace it under warranty of course. They were unable to duplicate the clutch sound, but wanted me to bring it back when I was able.

And they were going to have to replace a third hubcab.

I didn't pick up the car from the dealership and I never drove it again.

So what happened next?

When the dealer called to inform me what they were doing with my car and when it would be finished the service consultant complimented me on the condition of my car. I take good care of my vehicles and I babied this car planning on driving it for awhile. The car was spotless! If I drove the H@#L out of the car then I could understand it not holding up.

When my wife and I went to pick up the car we ended up buying a 2008 Titan. They knew I was frustrated with the car and gave my a good deal on my trade ($2,100 less than I payed new) and a good price on the truck so I would stay with the Nissan family and not switch to a Dodge Ram.

I am happy with my dealership and their service department. The service department did their best to fix the problems. When they knew I wasn't happy they got me out of the vehicle and into something else at a decent price. I have no complaints with them at all.

My conclusion:
I live in NC and our roads are in bad shape. I believe the roads just beat this little car up. I loved this car, but felt I was going to shake it apart over time. I believe the powertrain would last a long time, but I would of ended up fixing a lot of small problems throughout the life of the car which is why I traded.

[britt]

I purchased a 2008 Versa Hatchback for my 17 year old son. He has been driving the Versa since last May 2008. A few days ago, he was unable to make a right hand due to a steering problem. He said the car just would not turn to the right. Unfortunately it was too late. He had hit a tree head on. Fortunatley my son is O.K. I just need to know if anyone has experience this problem. Thank you.

[skoobahead]

I believe the issue is with the steering joint assy. The problem will be getting your dealership to agree. Mine is very suttle and intermittant at low speed. Once I can duplicate the popping sound each time Im headed to the dealer.

[britt]

I requested that Nissan have a master mechnic scan the event data recorder that comes standard in 2008 Versas. The event data recorder gives you vital information 10 seconds before an accident. It is the black box.It can tell you the degree the steering wheel was turned, speed of the car, if the brakes were applied, etc. Unfortunately, Nissan Corporation will not divulge the information to me.I would think that if Nissan has the technology to retrieve this information, they would let me know if there was a steering problem with my son's car.

[skoobahead]

If the steering wheel "pops" when turning to the right especially over small bumps, the steering shaft is most likely the cause. There is also a TSB on the upper strut mounts. I have not heard of the steering wheel not turning at all.
If Nissan scanned your car why would they not tell you what they found? What did they put on your receipt- "We cant tell results its a secret"?

[britt]

My son did turn the steering wheel to the right, according to him the wheels did not turn and he continued to go straight.

[RodneyReynolds]

Hello from Canada

Does anyone know if this problem has been resolved in the Vesra 3 door hatchback 2009 SL models? Because we purchased one a few weeks ago and my wife is telling me she is hearing/feeling something like being described here. It's like a click or something in the front.

I tried to simulate it as she described but I can't hear it. Although I do hear a click after about a few minutes once the vehicle warms up. But this is not while turning or anything. So I'm thinking that's something else, like the rad fan kicking in or maybe a engine noise.