OK, I know this will sound strange, but bare with me. I have had the passenger side rattle (most likely cam sprocket) from day one. The first year, it only did it in extreme cold. This year (year 3) I have heard it on almost every cold start (despite temperature). I always here a slight rattle and 1/2 the time here a hard buzzy rattle from the same area.

Two days ago, I noticed that every so often the car will not start (others have mentioned this) on the first turn of the key. I, admittedly, turn the key until I first hear/sense the engine firing then let go. I started thinking maybe I let go a little to soon since sometimes the engine jerks to life. That being said, I decided to hold the key for 1 second longer (ignoring the right side of my brain). So I did...no rattle.

Thinking it was just a fluke, I did that again yesterday morning. No rattle. Did it before leaving work yesterday...no rattle. Again this morning, no rattle. Could it be some of us just aren't holding the key long enough?

*Note: I am not holding the key long enough to grind the starter.