Sorry to resurrect this thread, but I am having this same issue as well. I am experiencing this same "clunk" that feels like its coming from the top part of the steering column between the wheel and the tilt mechanism. I only feel it when driving over a sharp obstruction in the road like a reflector or speed bump. Has anybody found a solution in these past 3 or so years?

 

There is a part in the steering wheel called the dynamic damper that could be your problem. Here is a link to a thread where a guy fixed his and took pictures.

http://forums.maxima.org/4th-generat...ing-wheel.html

 

I've had this problem since I bought my 2003 back in 2002.

 

I have actually been driving without that damper installed for the last few weeks thinking it was the issue. Nope, issue is still present. It sounds like its between the spiral cable and the tilt mechanism.

 

Any other ideas?

 

I just got tein lowering springs on my maxima and the back just constately rattles.

 

Any new info on this rattle? Ive found that if i put the steering wheel tilt at its highest setting the rattle isn't as bad.