Hey

I have a 2000 CRV. My engine has been making a weird and inconsistent tapping noise, especially on a cold start and slightly less noticeable when the engine is warmed up. It runs fine with no power loss, idles smooth and all. I'm just really concerned because this car is really sentimental to me as my family has had it pretty much my entire life.

So my question is: is this rod knock? Lifter tick maybe? Or hopefully I just need a valve adjustment? Hoping it doesn't mean my engine's toast, whatever it is.
176k on the motor and maintained regularly.

+ slight side note, there is an audible metal screeching sound coming from my belt that goes away once the car warms up, you can hear it in these audio clips I attached below.

Thanks for all your help in advance.

 

It has been a couple years, did you ever find resolution to this problem?