My 1995 Taurus 3.8L V6 automatic (120K miles) makes a ticking sound, sounds like it's coming from topside. It only happens when the car is in gear - any gear but N or P, it's smooth as silk in those two. It does it when idling in the driveway or accelerating on the road ( I can speed up and hear it, when I take my foot off the gas it seems to go away, or maybe I just can't hear it). After 3-4 minutes the Check Engine light comes on and stays on. Recently changed the oil, plugs, plug wires and coil wire.

No smoke, no steam, no lag, shifts good, doesn't seem to strain when accelerating, not over heating - just this ticking noise.

Any idea would be GREATLY appreciated.[/align]

 

check for codes?

 

possibly timing chain may be worn. or you have a sticking valve. just a thought