Starting System - Key Stuck In Ignition Cylinder

AMClassification: EL05-025

References: NTB05-070

Date: July 28, 2005

IGNITION KEY STUCK IN IGNITION SWITCH CYLINDER

APPLIED VEHICLE: All 2005 Altima (L31) with 4-speed A/T ONLY

IF YOU CONFIRM:

The Ignition Key is stuck in the Ignition Switch Cylinder on an applied vehicle.

ACTION:

^ Adjust the Microswitch Arm of the Shifter Assembly.

^ Do NOT replace the Ignition Switch, Steering Column, or Shifter Assembly.

^ Refer to the Service Procedure for details.

NOTE:
DO NOT REMOVE THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY TO PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE.





IMPORTANT:
The purpose of "ACTION" (above) is to give you a quick idea of the work you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire Service Procedure as it contains information that is essential to successfully completing this repair.





CLAIMS INFORMATION

SERVICE PROCEDURE

CAUTION:
Use suitable covers to protect upholstery, carpet, trim, etc. when performing this procedure.





1. Remove the A/T Shift Finisher (see Figure 2).

^ Refer to the IP section of the service manual for removal instructions.





2. Unscrew and remove the Selector Knob (see Figure 3). Then remove the Position Indicator Cover (six plastic clips).

NOTE:
DO NOT REMOVE THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY TO PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE.





3. Remove the black plastic Shift Lock Release Lever by pulling UP to release the clips (see Figure 4).

CAUTION:
Do NOT lose the Spring that sits under the Shift Lock Release Lever (see Figure 4).





4. Locate the Shifter Upper Side Microswitch with black wires (see Figure 5).

5. Move the Shift Selector to the "R" position. Then, remove the Shifter Upper Side Microswitch (with black wires) from the Shifter Assembly.

^ Move the Securing Clips outward to release the Microswitch (see Figure 5).

6. Adjust the Microswitch Arm as follows:





a. First, grip the Microswitch so that your thumb is supporting the Arm at the location indicated in Figure 6.

CAUTION:
Avoid Microswitch damage: You MUST support the Microswitch Arm in the location shown in Figure 6 during the Arm adjustment.

b. Then, carefully adjust the Arm to get an 8mm gap between the lower part of the Arm and the Microswitch (see Figure 6).

7. Re-install the Microswitch, making sure:

^ It's fully seated and secured (snapped in place) in the Shifter Assembly.

^ The wires are correctly routed and secured.

8. Confirm the incident is resolved.

9. Re-install all components in the reverse order of removal.