i have that problem. i was told it was the lifters, but it's a pricey job. that's the best i can do for you. i believe you have to remove the head gasket in order to get to them. -NEW ANSWER- I HAVE THAT PROBLEM ALSO... MY MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THAT SOUND IS THE LIFTERS, BUT WHAT IT ACTUALLY IS DOING IS THE LIFTERS ARE TAPPING AGAINST THE DIPSTICK IN THE CRANKSHAFT. HE TOLD ME NOT TO WORRY, IT IS AN ANNOYING SOUND BUT IT'S NOT DOING ANY INTERNAL DAMAGE TO THE MOTOR... IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET RID OF THAT SOUND, THEN YOU WOULD HAVE TO OPEN THE HEAD, AND HAVE THE LIFTERS REPLACED. The Crankshaft is nowhere near the lifers. It's the rockers slapping against the lifters that you hear. Not much of a problem if you don't mind the noise, just keep an eye on your oil pressure.
The most likely cause of a ticking sound in a motor is a bad timing belt. A valve out of time can also cause a ticking sound.
That slight ticking sound is probably the injectors firing which is normal.
you need to adjust the valves
Hopefully just a valve lash adjustment.
Lifters ticking.
Normally loose tappets will cause a ticking sound in the engine. Depending on if you have mechanical or hydraulic tappets you may need to have them replaced or simply adjusted.
Faulty engine
the ticking is the blinkers
If a spark plug is not tightened correctly it will tick when the cylinder compresses.
its not really a good idea to try to cover up the noise....any car after around 1980 really needs to have the oil it calls for....if your lifter drops your screwed....i would consider getting it fixed.
Your valves need adjustment. Take it to your preferred mechanic.
Get your brakes tested. I do not know what a ticking sound means.