I have a 2008 grand prix that makes a constant ticking noise. It has approximately 200,000 miles on it. Mostly highway miles. It sounds like a lifter tick but never did it until I had the timing chain and water pump replaced. It also seems sluggish at times. I have a 2005 grand am also which makes the lifter noise but not constantly. So it makes me think it's something more serious. It's also leaking oil. If anyone has any suggestions I'd appreciate it. 😁

I have a 2008 Envoy with 5.3L V8 that will also tick slightly when my oil level / pressure gets low. So keep a constant eye on your oil level.

Once a  hydraulic lift begins to fail, it will  not stay full of oil when the car is not running. Ideally the lifter should be replaced but that is not an easy proposition with FWD cars. 

I am wondering if the engine on the Grand Prix was not timed correctly once the new timing chain was replaced and it's off one or several degrees. Good enough to run but not very well. 

On 6/11/2018 at 8:39 AM, Frosty said:

I have a 2008 Envoy with 5.3L V8 that will also tick slightly when my oil level / pressure gets low. So keep a constant eye on your oil level.

Once a  hydraulic lift begins to fail, it will  not stay full of oil when the car is not running. Ideally the lifter should be replaced but that is not an easy proposition with FWD cars. 

I am wondering if the engine on the Grand Prix was not timed correctly once the new timing chain was replaced and it's off one or several degrees. Good enough to run but not very well. 

Frostys’ on the right track. You might actual check TDC of #1 piston vs the crank/harmonic mag pickup setting. Also if you run 5W30 or 10W30 move to a 10W40, but I would suggest a 15W40 especially @ 200,000 mi.