I purchashed my auto 2002 SE (used w/14k) about six weeks ago and have since noticed two strange problems. First I hear a whirring noise from the area of the intake manifold, especially noticable at lower rpms. Also, a sort of clacking noise occurs in that same area right after I turn off the ignition. It sounds like its coming from inside the manifold. Some other Maxima owners have said its normal to hear the mild whirring noise inside the cabin, while still others have said the opposite.
I also feel the irregular pulsation at idle that other Maxima owners are complaining about. Even though I can only feel it inside the car at idle, I can feel it with my hand on the engine cover at significantly higher engine speeds. This pulsation occurs even after adjusting the idle speed, timing, changing oil and filter, using a potent fuel injection cleaner, and even taking it in to the shop under warrenty. Of course, they said "couldn't duplicate the fault." This is obscene considering that I had a mechanic right in the car with me and personally felt the symptom the whole time. I noticed the other thread about this problem kinda died out a while ago, without any conclusion.
Is there any chance these two problems are interrelated? Have any of you with the pulsing noticed the strange noises in the manifold? I've been pulling my hair out over this one, and I think we've got a real problem on our hands. I love my new Max, but this is unacceptable for such a young car in this price range.