Thanks for all the help everyone, seems like I'm just paranoid coming from the BMW world. Where you're always worried about a spun bearing or an issue with VANOS.
I have a 96 1FZ and I’m trying to chase down this ticking sound. Is it anything to be concerned with? No loss of power, I do think I’m due for some new pulleys and belts. As well as an oil change with thicker oil.
Head gasket, head deck, and valve seals were replaced in 2020.