As title says, my 3.5 SE Maxima has been making a pretty prominent sound from the front suspension. Seems to do it more at full lock in either direction, but doesn't have to be turning. Not always consistent and hard to determine a particular side it's happening on. Also doesn't seem to be a function of speed and I already lifted it and shook the wheels to check the ball joints and wheel bearings. Strut boots are torn but the shafts are clean and doesn't look like they've been leaking. Before I go ahead and replace them as the likely culprit, is there anything else I should quickly look for?

Through some quick research I've found the Altimas of the same years have a reinforcement bar under the wiper cowl that has caused similar issues. Is this a shared component to this generation? Haven't spend that much time looking or searching the engine bay.

 

clunks in the suspension/steering area can be many things, so any input here would be more best guesses and debate than a meaningful lead. Also thankfully these are pretty easily diagnosed as they are usually easy to see/feel by a professional who are happy to put it on a hoist to have a look and quote for you. My only recommendation on that id say is try to take it to an honest place or be there when they check or call out what is the problem to avoid being taken for a laugh on stuff that isn't needed.

Nonetheless, my money is on a clapped out bush. They are usually the clunkers, especially while turning.
Fingers crossed on that for you too. They are waay cheaper to fix than fkd front struts on these maximas...