For years (like 8-10), my 2003 Disco II has had a ticking noise in the lower part of the engine. The mechanic who worked on it for many years couldn't specifically identify the issue, even with a stethoscope, and as it didn't seem familiar to him, nor was the ticking sound generating any performance issue, I just let it go. Recently, it seems that the ticking noise has changed. Whatever is ticking is driven by the engine, as the cadence increases with RPM of the engine.

Recently, I've noticed that the oil light stays on longer than usual with a cold start, but the engine oil level is fine. My first thought is an oil pump issue, and I wonder if the ticking sound is the oil pump. Anyone else have a similar issue?

Edit: I've done some more research and see there is an oil issue/recall for a specific range of Disco II's. Luckily, our mechanic was on top of things when we bought or Disco and he knew what needed to be done. Our VIN is 3A816702, so I think we're in the clear on the oil/recall issue.

 

Oil light coming on…even with cold start is concerning. I would be cautious driving until your oil pressure is verified.

Ticking issue could be anything…liner, lifter, push rod, oil pump etc.

The oil pump gears are known to crack even outside VIN issue you mentioned.

 

Have your mechanic check the oil pressure, if you have lowish oil pressure the top end will also tick.

 

The only time my oil light comes on is for about 2-3 seconds after an oil change, if the cadence changes with the engine RPM and you get a low oil pressure light you are going to have to open the engine up

 

You did not mention overheat, so I am going to rule out walked cam bearing at this time but I am guessing your previous ticking was a slipped liner and the new ticking is a broken oil pump. First step is to check the oil pressure and if it is low pull the pan and front cover and look for walked cam bearing and broken oil pump gears.