When I start my car when it's cold I hear a distinctive ticking or tapping coming from the valve cover. I took it to the honda dealer I purchased it from they kept it overnight so they could start it the next morning, they told me it was fine. Once it's warm, you can barely hear it. Does anybody have any suggestions on what to look for.

 

I would change the oil, it is possible someone added the wrong weight oil, then if there is no improvement contact the dealer.

I would also video the morning start up, that way you have a record just in case you need to go after the dealer for repairs later on.

Use what the book says for your climate, most say 5-20 weight oil for most of the US but if you are in a much colder area I would try 0-20.

Mobil1 now has 0-20

 

I change the oil when recommended and yes I use the 5w20. I live in VA the temps here lately have been lower to mid 30's. I have had this problem for 2 yrs now. I'm going to take it back to the dealer tomorrow hopefully they can find the problem. It's still under warranty I'm considering taking it to a different honda dealer.

 

If you are that far south and use 5 20, you shouldn't have a lifter making noise, you probably have a bad lifter.