strange noises from the engine bay upon startup. a sparking sound
 

this is happening on my dad's 2002 a4 3.0. It has only been happening to him in the mornings on cold starts. There is no turning over, the engine starts immediately but it is soon followed by a series of sparking noises coming from the front of the engine bay. This goes away within 30 sec. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated-as there is only 1000 miles left on his warantee and the dealership can't seem to figure out the problem. tia, will

wouldn't sound like hydraulic lifters would it? almost a chattering sound?
 

common and normal with cold starts.

It's valve clatter, mine does it too. don't worry.

but this is a brand new sound that he hasn't heard until now. why would it just be starting now?