Hydraulic lifters ticking VW Passat 3BG AVF

Hello everyone!

Around the end of summer in 2007, I encountered the following problem:
The engine hasn't been running for 3-4 hours. Are the valves/lifters rattling?
For 2-4 seconds after the engine starts, you hear it, but then it stops.
The engine has only 170,000 kilometers on it.

Ich hätte das selbe problem mit der vorgänger. Das war ein Passat 1998 AFN. DOnce upon a time, someone said...
'Everyone said the hydraulic lifters needed to be replaced. I did replace them, but the problem was still the same! Then, I ended up selling it.'

But now I'm having the exact same problem with my current Passat.
Some people say it's due to the oil filter housing, others blame the oil pump, and still others point to the cylinder head. What should one believe?

Does anyone here know where the problem is located?

I am grateful for any advice!

Best regards,
Kim R.

Hydraulic systems can sometimes run out of fluid.

If they stop after 3-4 seconds of running, thus fulfilling their function and maintaining pressure, there is no need for concern.

I wouldn't actually do anything until the rattling stops, or if it gets worse when the engine is hot (which could indicate thin oil).

m;