So I've got my Outlander LS AWD, 120,000kms

Anyways here are the symptoms, a mysterious ticking noise has developed, it sounds like it is coming from the middle of the dash, behind somewhere, does not seem to be emitting from the engine bay or from under the vehicle.

Will tick in correlation with RPM (faster rpm, faster ticking) -- sounds like a bicycle spoke going through a playing card

Ticks in neutral, under load, around 1500pm until redline or engine noise overcomes ticking sound. Tried premium fuel incase it was pinging, no deal, no major work done since just before any sort of ticking started.

Brought it to the dealer, they weren't really sure but said I should do a coolant backflush and replace the heater core, but they couldn't guarantee the sound would be fixed, has anyone experienced something similar? It is very annoying!


edit: I put my head under the footwell beside the gas pedal, and while pushing down with my hand I tried to listen for the tick, I could feel and hear the tick coming from what appeared to be the centre box behind the dash (mid-dash)

 

Does the '06 engine have hydraulic lifters?? could be lifter tick?

I had a '93 Eclipse that had the timing belt break on me. For about 2 weeks beforehand, I heard a ticking noise that even my mechanic couldn't find. Maybe check your belts?