Anyone experience a lifter tick at startup? I am using Mobil1 synthetic, but I bought the 2001 RX used and the history is not known. I have heard of possible oil sludge problems with these engines, and I might have a dirty lifter.. It will stop ticking sometimes after startup if driven 10 or more miles..

 

Every RX I've ever had has made a ticking noise, which is most noticable at idle and also when it's cold outside. Not sure if it's lifters or fuel injectors, but it's normal.

 

I just hit 40K on my '02. The fuel injector noise (which I've always heard) is different from the lifter noise. I now hear lifter noise for the first few minutes on a cold (32 degrees outside) engine. I use conventional oil and change the oil every 3K, so I don't think it's s sludge problem. I too hope this is normal as the engine gets older.