Am new to this site and new to Xterras. Recently picked up a used 03, single owner and serviced at the dealer (love carfax). It's a 4WD XE with auto trans and 88K on the clock.

On a trip to Chicago this weekend, I had this strange clicking noise from the engine. Happened once on the way there and once on the way back. Both times it lasted approx 3-5 minutes. There was no change in RPM's or Power, in fact except for the noise the X moved along without a hitch.

The sound was a clicking sound, not unlike a valve or lifter rattle when starting cold. It changed it's speed as I changed the RPMs. It was loud enough to hear over the sound of the X going 70 mph on T/A's.

My first suspect is that something has busted loose (damn heat shields, am new to the X, but not to Nissans)and rattling or rubbing. My next fear is that it may be a valve or lifter issue, as that is what the sound brought to mind. Perhaps an oil circulation problem leaving a valve or lifter momentarily dry?

I am interested in any and all input as my experience with the X is all of 2 months.

stasiman