Ok, aside from a rattle sound (which wasn't my CAT's headshield), there is also a cricket-like squeak that comes at partial throttle (1400-1800RPM). I think it's a belt issue, because that's what it sounds like. Are belts covered by the Nissan powertrain warranry?

 

The belts have nothing to do with the powertrain, so I doubt it. There are two drive belts that drive the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and air conditioning compressor.

 

$15 and 10 minutes of work takes care of it :-)

 

Did you mean replacing the belts (definetly takes more time than 10min) or spraying some belt conditioner on the belts (this could take 10min)?

 

Belts are considered wear items and not covered under 6/60 or 3/36 (unless a pulley or accessory drive defect causes the belt to jump) -- I replaced my 2k2's serp belts at about 45k, the easiest access is from underneath the car (take the right front wheel off.) I took it to the Nissan store of the auto group that I work for and the total ended up being about $70 (my cost).