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 HOW TO USE THE HONDA DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (HDS) OR A SCAN TOOL ), 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 (in Park or Neutral) until the radiator fan comes, on then let it idle.
- Check the idle speed (see IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT ).
- Follow the tester's prompts to get the tester in the "SCS" mode (see the operator's manual).
- Free the service loop from the wire harness, then connect the timing light to the service loop.
- Aim the light toward the pointer (A) on the timing belt cover. Check the ignition timing under no load condition: headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are not operating.
Ignition Timing: 10°+/-2° BTDC (RED mark (B) at idle in Park or Neutral
- If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check cam timing. If cam timing is OK, substitute a known-good PCM (see HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE PCM FOR TESTING ), then recheck. If the system works properly, and the PCM was substituted, replace the original PCM (see HOW TO REMOVE THE PCM FOR TESTING ).
- Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.
- Secure the service loop to the wire harness with wire ties.
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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