This has got to be a common problem. A loud ticking noise coming from the engine at idle. At higher revs, you can't hear it, but does that mean it gone? Even though the cam phasor was replaced within 6 months of my new FX4, the tick returned and became louder and louder. The dealership says not to worry, they all sound like that and there are no long term negative affects. Yeah, right! This noise is annoying and also embarrassing! However, what he did say was interesting---the cam phaser has always been a problem, and when the dealer would repair it, they would repair it with the same part # that was destined for failure. But, over the years, (mine is an '04) Ford has refined the the replacement and it has apparently taken care of the problem. Only problem now is that it is out of warranty. 4 hrs labor @ $95.00 per hr. Actually, if it takes care of that noise, too me, it would be worth it. OK, now for the 2nd problem. My rear U-joint was squeaking real bad in reverse, so I go down to Auto Zone and pick one up. Guess what! It is only a Ford part for a whopping $158.00. Whats up with that! Any response is welcome. Thanks, Jarred

 

Our 2004 Expedition with the 5.4 engine has the same ticking at idle. We have owned it since 1900 miles and it currently has 132500 miles on it. It has been doing this for a few years with no issues. yet anyhow...
I will start listening for the Ujoint squeek now.