Nissan Repair: nissan engine noise, variable valve timing, crank case

Question
My 2011 nissan versa (13,000) miles has started making a ticking noise (much louder when cold). It did not make this noise for a year. I took it to the dealer who said the noise was normal.

Is it normal for a 13,000 mile nissan versa to make this kind of noise?  

Thanks

Answer
It is NOT normal! However, it is kind of difficult to make a remote diagnosis especially since I cannot hear the noise, so here are some suggestions: Has the motor oil level ever dropped to very low or almost no oil in the crank case? Is there an exhaust manifold leak? (an exhaust leak tends to be louder when the engine is cold and later when the motor warms up the metal parts expand and reduce the noise).  I  also recommend an oil pressure check with  a pressure gauge and a removal of the valve cover to check  valve springs, rocker arms and all moving parts like VVT (Variable Valve Timing mechanism), if the motor is equipped with that.