I cant figure out if it is the intake or something else. Anyone else have a similar problem? I sounds like an aluminum can kinda tappin a fan or something. It doesnt happen EVERY time, and the sound changes the times that it does.

 

its most likely the heat shield, im having mine replaced under warrenty

 

Pretty common amoungst the 2002 and 2003 gang unfortunately. Its the timing chain sprocket. There is a TSB out where they will replace the sprocket, but it's up to you to trust the dealership to remove a large portion of your engine to get to it (depending on which side). Most say that it will do no damage or little damage to the engine...just a loose timing chain tightening up.

 

Had the same problem w/ my 95, but the 02+ have the CVT sprockets on the cam sprockets. Even though the tensioner is below all that, seems like a big job. And even after my 95 tensioner was replaced, it still did it to a certain degree .