Ignition Timing: Testing and Inspection

Ignition Timing Inspection

1. Connector the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the date link connector (DLC), and check for DTCs. If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before inspecting the ignition timing.
2. Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3,000 rpm with no load in N or P position (A/T, CVT) or neutral (M/T) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle
3. Check the idle speed.
4. Follow the tester's prompts to get the tester in the "SCS" mode.




5. Remove the ignition coil cover, then connect the timing light to the No. 1 ignition coil wire.




6. Aim the light toward the pointers (A) on the timing belt cover. Check the ignition timing under no load conditions: headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner off.
7. If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check the cam timing. If the cam timing is OK, update the engine control module (ECM), powertrain control module (PCM) if it does not have the latest software, or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM, then recheck. If the system works properly, and the ECM/PCM was substituted, replace the original ECM/PCM.
8. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
9. Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.