Steering Clutch

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Infiniti Q50. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Once electrified from the steering force control module, the steering clutch is released and the upper and lower steering shafts are separated.

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
When a system malfunction occurs, when system is in protection mode, or when the steering wheel is turned with a force stronger than the butting reaction force generated by the steering force motor, the clutch is engaged while the electric from the steering force control module is shut out, and the upper and lower steering shafts are engaged.