Ignition System: Testing and Inspection

2AR-FE IGNITION: IGNITION SYSTEM: ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION

1. PERFORM SPARK TEST

(a) Check for DTCs DTC Check / Clear.

NOTICE:
If any DTC is output, perform troubleshooting procedures for that DTC.

(b) Check if sparks occur.

(1) Remove the ignition coils and spark plugs Removal.

(2) Install the spark plug to the ignition coil and connect the ignition coil connector.

(3) Disconnect the 4 injector connectors.





(4) Ground the spark plug.





(5) Visually check that sparks occur while the engine is being cranked.

NOTICE:
* Be sure to ground the spark plug when checking.
* If the ignition coil has been struck or dropped, replace it.
* Do not crank the engine for more than 2 seconds.
(c) Spark test flowchart.

(1) Check that the wire harness side connector of the ignition coil with igniter is securely connected.





(2) Perform a spark test on a malfunctioning ignition coil with igniter.

1 Replace the ignition coil with a normal one.

2 Perform the spark test again.





(3) Check the power supply to the ignition coil with igniter.

1 Turn the ignition switch to ON.

2 Check that there is battery voltage at the ignition coil positive (+) terminal.





(4) Check the camshaft position sensor P0340.

(5) Check the crankshaft position sensor P0335.

(6) Check the IGT signal from the ECM P0351.

(7) Connect the 4 injector connectors.

(8) Install the ignition coils and spark plugs Installation.

2. CHECK SPARK PLUG

(a) Check the electrode.





(1) Using a megohmmeter, measure the insulation resistance.

Standard Insulation Resistance:





HINT
If a megohmmeter is not available, perform the following simple inspection instead.

(b) Alternative inspection method:





(1) Quickly accelerate the engine to 4000 rpm 5 times.

(2) Remove the spark plug.

(3) Visually check the spark plug.

If the electrode is dry, the spark plug is functioning properly. If the electrode is damp, proceed to the next step.

(c) Check the spark plug for any damage on its threads and insulator.

If there is damage, replace the spark plug.

Recommended Spark Plug:





(d) Check the spark plug electrode gap.





Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug:

1.3 mm (0.051 in.)

(e) If the gap is more than the maximum, replace the spark plug.

Electrode gap for new spark plug:

1.0 to 1.1 mm (0.039 to 0.043 in.)

(f) Clean the spark plugs.





(g) If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, clean the electrode with a spark plug cleaner, and then dry it.

Standard air pressure:

588 kPa (6 kgf/cm2, 85 psi)

Standard duration:

20 seconds or less

HINT
Only use a spark plug cleaner when the electrode is free of oil. If the electrode has traces of oil, use gasoline to clean off the oil before using the spark plug cleaner.