Can't unlock steering wheel

[Croí na hÉireann]

This is probably the longest shot of long shots but has anyone ever removed the pin from their steering wheel? Basically the steering wheel is locked and can't unlock it. Apparently this problem happened to previous owner and they eventually got it free by wiggling it and they never locked the steering wheel after. They neglected to tell me this and I had successfully locked and unlocked it about five times before it seized up at the weekend. Have tried four different keys including one that was cut this week to no avail. Have also tried to lubricate the keyhole ignition. Any other suggestions? How would I go about removing the pin itself? It's a 97 Nissan Primera...

[FL/MAYO]

Croi, might be something to do with what gear its in, try it in neutral or first gear. I have Nissan as well and have the same problem sometimes. GOOD LUCK.

[Main Street]

If you get a new cut key made from a worn key it just duplicates the action of the worn key or slightly worse.

I had that problem about 6 years ago with a VW.
The locking bar which secures the steering wheel is pushed by the tumbler springs which can get stuck/freeze.
If you cant turn the key in the cylinder then the culprit is likely to be the ignition lock cylinder.
A locksmith shop has a tool that forces the key past the tumblers.
Me being cheap would just remove the tumbler pins in the lock cylinder. You can still lock the car doors.

AFAIR, turning the wheel away from the lock and try starting at the same time
or with key in the lock hit the key a few times lightly, it might effect the tumbler pins.

[Croí na hÉireann]

Thanks lads, should've said though that I've tried it in gear and in neutral to no avail. Also tried it while pressing the brake as was mentioned on some forum. Also tried that tapping the key a few times, not a budge out of it.

Not gonna worry about locking the wheel again so all on for removing the locking bar. Forums are all talk about drilling into de cyclinder to do this  Anyone ever attempted???

[Main Street]

I mention using the tool from the locksmith, avoids the use of the drill.

[Croí na hÉireann]

I mention using the tool from the locksmith, avoids the use of the drill.

Was thinking of that alright but just worried that if I can't unlock it now would there be a possibility that the wheel would lock whilst driving??? At least removing the bar would revove that senario... One of de lads in work put that idea into my head, is he talkin through his hole???

The new key was cut from a file the nissan dealer had, not a copy of any of de old keys (a real noticable amount of wear on all the old keys compared to the new one). This makes me think that it's either something to do with the spring action on the bar or there's wear on the inside of de cylinder...

[Over the Bar]

OK try this and it will take 2 of you to execute it properly.

One of you put the key in, and while turning it with one hand tap the end of it firmly & rapidly with a small hammer or heavy spanner.  The other wriggle the steering.   If done right the tapping will make the barrels of the lock jump until they release.

[hitzelsperger]

take er to poleglass in west belfast and ask any young boy to give you a hand, it'll be fixed in seconds, mite be messy but she'll steer