Unfortunately I really can’t hear the noise enough to tell what it is. But with my vehicle I have a tapping/ticking noise that sounds like it’s coming from the lifters.

I tried using multiple types of engine cleaners. I’d added Mystery oil to my engine oil and I also used the type you add to your engine and run it for 5 min just before your oil change. I also used multiple types of fuel additives/cleaners every time I filled my gas tank for several months with no noticeable reduction to the ticking noise. Also, after extensive research online and comparing my vehicle engine noise to other 4Runner, it appears the ticking/tapping noise is normal. I’ve had my vehicle for about a year now and I haven had any engine issues.

One thing that I did notice that reduced the ticking noise significantly was putting in heavier oil. So I’ve come to the conclusion that the reason the 4Runner engine has a ticking noise is because of the thin oil Toyota recommends with the engine. I think they recommend it for improved mileage. I get about 17-18 mpg but when I used thicker oil it dropped down to 15 mpg.