Thunder-Fire, I believe I have the same problem. I took it in to the dealer and was also told that the lifter noise was "normal". Mine is a constant ticking noise when the car is at idle and is louder when it's cold, but still very noticable when the car is warmed up. I would really appreciate any information you could provide. I need to take care of it quickly as I only have about 4,000 miles until 36,000.