Okay so I am hearing this weird ticking/staticy sound coming from the timing chain cover area near the front valve cover. It is a very light sound and can not be heard inside the car UNTIL I get up to around 55mph at that point I can hear the sound in the cabin. IMHO when you can hear it in the cabin it sounds like a static coming from the audio but Ive ruled out audio since it can only be heard over 50pmh in the cabin.

Anybody have any ideas? Ive searched and read a few things such as timing chain tensioner, TC guides, possible bad gas (just filled up with 93 at a different place, so I will know within a few days if thats the problem)

Thanks peeps

Also the sound has no rhythm when it can be heard in the cabin. I cant tell under the hood as it is fairly faint

 

Remove the drive belts, start the car.
If the noise is still there it's within the timing assy.
If the noise is gone it's either an accessory device or a bad belt.

 

If it's a TC guide or tensioner would it be fine to drive on it for a while?

 

You shoudnt have a problem driving it for a while your just going to
hear the timing chain. Whats the mileage on your Maxima ?

 

you sure its not wheel bearing? Ususally after the oil is warm noise "chain rattle" goes away.

 

my timing chain has made noise for 6 years now. it is getting louder, i know ill have to replace it soon though. or ill just do the main guide and water pump.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tx1XIm6q4r4

 

My guess is the valve noise - they are adjustable but you would need a special tool to take the valve shims out.