I have a clicking sound under my hood and it sounds like a sticky lifter. Is my car doomed or can I continue to drive it?
RESPONSE
Sticky Lifter
Your in luck! The car is not doomed. The engine should have the oil level checked. If the oil level is good then there is no reason not to drive it. This is assuming no warning lights are illuminated on the dash. Of course if the oil level is low, top it off before driving. If the engine does in fact have a damaged lifter you will not do further damage to it by continuing to drive it. However the ticking sound will be there until a repair is made.
You may notice a decrease in fuel mileage.