Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Ignition Timing Inspection
- Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC) (see step 2 on IF THE MIL (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP) HAS COME ON ), and check for DTC's. If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before inspecting the ignition timing.
- Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3,000 rpm with no load shift lever in Park or Neutral, until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
- Check the idle speed, and adjust it if necessary (see page 11-201).
- Follow the tester's prompts to get the tester in the "SCS" mode (see the tester operator's manual).
- Connect the timing light to the No. 1 ignition coil wire.
- Aim the light toward the pointer (A) on the timing belt cover. Check the ignition timing under a no load conditions: headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are not operating.
Ignition Timing: 10°+/-2°BTDC (RED mark (B)) during idling in Park or Neutral
- If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check the cam timing, and the top dead center (TDC) and crankshaft position (CKP) sensors. If necessary, substitute a known-good powertrain control module (PCM) and recheck . See HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE PCM FOR TESTING PURPOSE .
- Turn the ignition switch OFF.
- Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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