1997 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 96

IGNITION SWITCH To lock the steering wheel, remove the key. To unlock the steering wheel, insert the key and turn it gently while rotating the steering wheel slightly right and left. WARNING Never remove the key while driving. If the key is removed, the steering wheel will lock. This may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and could result in serious vehicle damage or personal injury. ASD0022 ASD0023 MANUAL TRANSMISSION The ignition switch includes an anti-theft steering lock device. The key can only be removed when the ignition switch is in the LOCK position. On manual transmission models, to turn the ignition key to LOCK from ACC or ON, turn the key to OFF and press in the key release button, then turn the key to LOCK. In order for the steering wheel to be locked, it must be turned about 1/8 of a turn counterclockwise from the straight up position. 4-4 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION On automatic transmission models the ignition lock is designed so the key cannot be turned to LOCK and removed until the shift lever is moved to the P (Park) position. When removing the key from the ignition, make sure the shift lever is in the P (Park) position. When the key cannot be turned to the LOCK position, proceed as follows to remove the key: 1) Move the shift lever into the P (Park) position.