The steering wheel creates a soft clunk in either direction, from any position

2008 NISSAN NOTE
100,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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RAP73
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When driving, but also when stationary with engine "off", the steering wheel creates a soft clunk in either direction, from any position.
Only one clunk on turning either way, the rest of the rotation is quiet.
I thought maybe tie-ends so held both whilst the wheel was turned
At the wheel joint I couldn't feel anything but as I slid towards the steering column up the shaft, on both sides, the clunk became very noticeable.
I'm really hoping not a new steering column and been reading about the intermediate u-joint.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I can't feel the clunk anywhere else on the running gear.
Aug 22, 2021 at 8:47 AM
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KASEKENNY
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I think you are exactly correct. If you feel a single clunk in either direction then the way to confirm it would be to remove the load from the front tires and if the clunk is still there then it is the intermediate shaft.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jack-up-and-lift-your-car-safely

Basically once these are worn then the break away torque causes a clunk and then once it is spinning it is okay. This will only get work and more than likely you will start feeling it more frequently.

I am attaching the process below from the manual on a Versa which is basically the same vehicle. Unfortunately we don't have a manual on this specific vehicle just because it is not offered here in the USA but again, the Versa is the same unit.

Please run through this material and let us know if you have other questions. Thanks
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Aug 22, 2021 at 5:49 PM
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RAP73
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Fantastic reply and the repair guide is a real bonus. Great service.
Aug 23, 2021 at 4:59 AM
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KASEKENNY
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Thank you for the kind words. We are here to help.

Please let us know if you need other info and we can send it over. Thanks again for using 2CarPros. Tell your friends. :)
Aug 23, 2021 at 5:13 PM