Ticking sound coming from engine

[rxm6]

When I'm sitting at idle, I hear a slight ticking from the engine that sounds like the valves clicking. But it only lasts for a moment and then fades away. I've noticed, however, that it comes back randomly while sitting at idle. Also, whenever I let off the break in drive or reverse, it comes back but when I accelerate it goes away. What's going on? Do I need a timing? Valve Adjustment? (Do these engines need valve adjustments anymore?) Timing chain? Any help is appreciated. Thanks as always.

[maxhopper]

Check your oil level first. If that is ok, it may be a problem with the oil pickup in the pan. If the oil pan is dented in any way, or the pickup is restricted, that could prevent optimum oil flow.

[audtatious]

Could also be the A/C or power steering pulleys. I've head them make random ticking noises as well.

Next time it happens, pop the hood to determine where the noise is coming from.

[dandaman0139]

ticking sound? sounds like maybe a bomb....lol j/k

[A.Tech]

I thought it was the injectors on my car when I hear it sometimes... It is rather hard to determine where the sound is coming from with all the other engine noise. I get a small low volume ticking as well sometimes. I would not worry about it.

[raymundojr]

the ticking sound may be the result of overheating,usually engine becomes very hot a ticking sound is produced the weapon-r cold air intake is taken into consideration.On the other hand, heat congestion inside the hood has also have a poor air intake insulation.

[danielekfuj]

ticking sound? sounds like maybe a bomb....

thats what i was thinking... lolgreat minds think alike

[rxm6]

So after doing some tests, I found that the ticking is only present after the car heats up. It is never present when the car is cold or warming up.

Just thinking out loud hear, but could it be that a thicker oil might help the problem? perhaps a 10-40? given the high milage of the engine (130k)