Four problems related to steering column have been reported for the 2009 Nissan Versa. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Nissan Versa based on all problems reported for the 2009 Versa.
My Nissan Versa has had an ongoing problem with the steering column. In 2011, while the vehicle was still under warranty, I complained about a popping sound in the front suspension of the car accompanied by a shifting sensation felt in the steering wheel. After checking the car over several times, the dealer discovered a problem with the steering shaft and replaced it. Two years later, the problem resurfaced and has gotten much worse over time. Now, my dealer is telling me I need to replace the steering shaft again - but I have to pay this time. I've not yet hit 70,000 miles and need a third steering shaft? sounds like a parts or design problem to me! Nissan should replace it.
Clunk sound coming from steering column when making right or left turns.
The steering column clicks and shifts when making sharp turns, especially getting on and off highway ramps. The steer column often times feel like it could twist off while driving. No injuries, crashes, or incidents in direct relation to this as of yet but does need to be looked into. Other instances have been reported on online forums regarding the same issue.
Within weeks of my purchase of a 2009 Nissan Versa sl, I noticed, when making right or left turns at slow speeds (5-10 mph), especially going over a bump and when the steering wheel is turned 1- 1 1/2 times (as in going into a driveway) I experience loud clunking and vibrations in wheel, and it can be easily heard coming from the steering column. The clunk is always there at 1 to 1 1/4 turn from the full clockwise stop. I have taken it in the dealership for this problem at least 5 times; they have been unable to fix the problem. Several times, the service writer said he couldn't hear or feel the 'clunk' but the mechanic said he could. The Versa does move around quite a bit at high speeds on the freeway, but I am unsure if that is caused by the above described problem or the light weight of the Versa. The sound and feel of this 'clunk' is very disconcerting, and given the number of complaints I've seen for 3 years about this problem, I'm wondering if the government/automaker are waiting for someone to die before they act.