i've been reading about engine ticks and or the diesel sounds that the 5.4L often makes. just drove off the lot with an '06 5.4L with 27,000 miles and i've got the same problem. it ticks/diesels after warming and so far I think its only at idle(more predominant on the passenger side). i've read a bit about oil brands and filters - my oil looks clean but its over serviced - too high. going to change it using synthetic and a market filter but from what i've read, it sounds like its the cam phasers. its under warranty so i'll check with a dealer. if anyone has an idea or suggestion of what else it may be, please respond.

much abliged, ruff

 

I have the same problem with the tick. I have an 04 5.4 with 180000 on her now and runs great but ticks when warms up. Please let me know what you find out.

 

jcpcovin, sorry for the delay. stopped at a local dealer and had a mechanic listen to the sound. he initially thought loud injectors which ive read about. we went and started up an '09 and it made the exact sound which confirmed that it was the injectors.

 

Its a combination of loud injectors and the overhead cams/followers/lash adjusters. Listen to a Honda or Toyota, they all have a tick or tap.

 

I have the exact same problem. I have a 06' 5.4 that when i bought new didn't tick, now with 27k it does. I took it to the dealership and they told me to put a fuel additive in it, which i am against putting any additive in it. It also diesels like you say. This will be good info to take down to Ford. I have driven other post 04 5.4's and none have done this.

 

i have a 2005 with the 5.4 and i had the same problem. i took it to the dealership and they said its the injectors. a lot of them make that ticking noise. he said its normal and nothing is wrong with it, theyre just loud.