I don't know why I didn't notice this before but. I can see this little line scratch that looks like its from the needle from about 500 rpm to 1500. Has anyone ever seen this type of thing before? Its never been modified/ removed.
-95 baseline 45k miles

 

just the needle edge hitting the face.That face doesn't look totally flat so it may stick out more at the bottom edge and therefore the needle would hit at lower rpm and most likely at the MAX rpm.
I'll guess a manufacturer defect,unless of course someone took apart the cluster and bent the needle if they had them off.
If you are that concerned about it then just remove the clear face and carefully bend the tip of the needle on the gauge.

 

I was hoping this was a common problem and I could then try to ignore it, cause taking the dash apart to work on the cluster doesn't sound fun. Sounds like somthing I'd do as a teenager to my Honda Civic. Plus I hate rattles. And creating more rattles. Oh god. :-/