How to stop engine ticking sound?

Maybe its a stupid question but I purchased an 2001 Buick Century Custom with the 3.1 engine in it. I have been reading that its extremly common for these to have engine tick sounds. I have also read its not a huge deal just something that happens to these over time. Mine has about 145k miles on it and I plan on selling it soon. I was wondering if putting thicker oil (maybe 10w 40?) will help correct the issue. One more note, it does NOT just do it when started cold and it seems like some times when i first start it that it does not do it at all and some times it does. It also gets louder when you press the gas. I dont know much about the car and in fact have driven it 2 times. Any suggestions would be great, thanks.

I don't knoiw of anything that would help the ticking. I've drove two buicks. You might want to pull the drain plug sometime and check the oil if its been a long time since its been changed. The gm 3.1 and 3.4 are bad about having intake and head gaskets going out. We always check the drain plug before starting a car at work before we disassemble it. You'd be surprised how many engines have antifreeze and water in them.

wow didnt think about that. i will be doing that tomorrow if i get around to it. if there isnt any issues with the oil, does anyone suggest putting a different type of oil that may help its cause? rather take suggestions now while i am pulling the plug.

The 99 buick that I drove before it was sold had a little bit of pecking starting. It had the 3.8 in it.

its a loud tick valves or barrings

its not to loud at times its not even noticable. what ever the issue is, it dosnt bother the way it runs, just gets on my nerves.

any last suggestions before i change the oil? i only plan to change it one time because i am selling it and just wanta know if there is anything i can do to quite the sound any. thanks

just thick id say ?