Well, I've recently noticed a whining sound (similar to driving a honda fast in reverse - dont ask how I know what that sounds like!) at startup, and most noticable when the car is cold.

I took it to nissan, and after a few mins trying to reproduce it, the tech felt that it was the power steering unit drawing power off the engine accesory drivebelt. Makes sense, as it only is noticable when at low RPM, ex, starting in first/reverse. Its also more pronounced when I turn the steering wheel while doing this, also typical during a start in 1st or reverse.

So in case anyone else was wondering about this sound, there ya have it. Noisy power steering unit.

 

Have you done doughnuts lately?

Both Doug and I have blown ours doing this . . . the pump gets real noisy at low rpms (especially while turning) before it goes! And yes it sounds like a Honda in reverse.

Both ours were replaced under warranty.