They can - and do - fail without being touched. It’s not common either way (touched or untouched).
A leakdown test would be one thing on my list to look at, and maybe a mechanical oil pressure gauge. I say this in light of the accrued mileage and usage type.
There’s too much looking for “the problem” rather than acknowledging what’s observed may be the culminating point of several issues. It could be a combination (random example) of compromised valve sealing, hydraulic lash adjusters not pumping up, a small intake leak that seals up with heat…
Most dying pulse sensors and ignition drivers work when cold, I know this from owning multiple Alfas and Peugeots.
