2nd Gen Tundra: Ticking from the engine on cold start that fades as it warms up

Checks, in order

1. Locate it cold
   With the engine cold, run a length of hose from your ear along the manifold-to-head joints. Black soot streaks at a flange confirm it. Count the studs; a missing nut or a stud stub is the answer on a 5.7.
   easy $ · under about $50
2. Rule out the engine
   A tick that does not change with temperature, or that follows engine speed exactly at idle, can be a lifter or a loose spark plug. Pull the plugs on that bank and check torque.
   medium $ · under about $50
3. Broken studs
   Studs that snapped above the head come out with heat and vise grips. One snapped flush can mean drilling in place or, rarely, pulling the head. Replace all studs and nuts on the side with OEM hardware while the manifold is off.
   hard $$ · about $50 to $500
4. Manifold or headers
   OEM manifolds run about $225 a side plus hardware; owners report about $2,000 installed for both sides at a shop, with headers quoted at similar labor. Reuse OEM gaskets only once.
   hard $$$ · shop-level job, $500+

Applies to: 2nd generation Tundra, 2007 to 2021, with the 5.7L 3UR-FE V8 (most trucks), the 4.6L 1UR-FE (2010–2019) and the 4.7L 2UZ-FE (2007–2009). Engine-specific items say which engine they apply to. Assumes a stock truck.

Tools and parts for these checks

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Go deeper

• Toyota 2UZ-FE 4.7 V8: Specs, Reliability & High Mileage Guide

The same problem on other Toyotas

• 4th Gen 4Runner (2003–2009): Ticking or diesel-like noise on cold start
• Lexus GX 470 (2003–2009): Ticking from the engine on cold start that fades as it warms

Other engine problems on the 2nd Gen Tundra

• Burning oil smell or smoke from the engine bay after a drive, no puddle on the ground (5.7L)

More 2nd Gen Tundra problems

• Check engine light, VSC and 4LO flashing, truck stuck in limp mode (P0418, P2440, P2442, P2445) (Emissions)
• Pink crust or a drip at the front of the engine, coolant level dropping (Cooling)
• Turn the key: one click or nothing, engine does not crank (Starting & Charging)
• Brake booster motor buzzing, sinking or hard pedal, ABS/VSC/TRAC lights (Brakes)
• Gear oil on the inside of a rear wheel or on the brake backing plate (Drivetrain)
• Rust on the frame rails or rear crossmember, flaking or soft spots (Frame & Body)

All 10 2nd Gen Tundra symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →

General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.