I have the same ticking noise and it seems to be louder on hotter days. I was told by the service tech it's due to the synthetic oil being thinner. I have my doubts, but that's what they said. Still researching for the answer myself.
that's just the sound of the steel bits cooling down
A 97 Maxima can have these symptoms because of a bad alternator. If the alternator has low output there can be a ticking and eventually the engine will stop running.
lifters
The fuel injectors make the ticking noise you hear at startup, especially when the engine is cold (colder temperatures).
It's a loose bulb or an ungrounded bulb socket. When the engine comes on, so do the tail lights.
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.
What causes ticking, check engine light, and the check gauges sensor to come on in a 1999 Dodge Durango 5.2L SUV?
It's a rocker arm tapping at valve stem. Hydraulic lifters (hydraulic rocker mounts) are the common reason for the ticking. If it doesn't go away when the engine heats up, consider replacing the lifter where the ticking comes from.
Possibly just an adjustment on the rockers. Hydraulic system. Hopefully that's it.
EVOEvolution Engine (Harley-Davidson Motorcycles)
the lifters may need adjusting or replacing. your engine not getting enough oil causes the lifters to make noise. not sure what motor you have in it but if it's an engine where you can tighten the lifters then you can buy a tool for it if you know what your doing
Knocking as opposed to pinging or ticking, usually means seriously worn bearings of some sort. Time for an overhaul.