Nissan North America, Inc.

The problem

THE STEERING COLUMN IS CONNECTED TO THE STEERING GEAR BY MEANS OF SPLINED SHAFT COUPLINGS. THESE COUPLINGS ARE SECURED WITH A TRANSVERSE BOLT AND LOCKWASHER. IT WAS FOUND THAT THE BOLT WAS NOT TIGHTENED AND TORQUED TO SPECIFICATIONS. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: ALTHOUGH THE SPLINES PROVIDE ADEQUATE COUPLING TO PERMIT OPERATION, EXTENDED USE MAY RESULT IN SPLINE DISENGAGEMENT AND LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. CORECTIVE ACTION: INSPECT AND CORRECT AS NECESSARY TO PRECLUDE SPLINE DISENGEMENT.