2012 Honda CR-Z Base, Automatic CVT TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition Timing Inspection

  1. Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 on GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).
  2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
  3. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECM/PCM, If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ).
  4. Check for DTCs (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ). If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before continuing with this test.
  5. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3, 000 rpm with no load (in P or N (CVT model)) or (in neutral (M/T model)) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
  6. Check the idle speed (see FUEL LINE/QUICK-CONNECT FITTING PRECAUTIONS ).
  7. Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
  8. Connect the timing light to the service loop (A).
    Fig 1: Connecting Timing Light To Service Loop
    G06949243Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  9. Aim the light toward the pointer (A) on the cam chain case. Check the ignition timing under no load condition (headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are turned off).

    Ignition Timing 

    M/T model: 10 ±2° BTDC (RED mark (B)) at idle in neutral 

    CVT model: 10 ± 2° BTDC (RED mark (B)) at idle in P or N 

    Fig 2: Identifying Pointer On Cam Chain Case
    G06949244Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  10. If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check the cam timing. If the cam timing is OK, update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see DTC P0351: NO. 1 CYLINDER IGNITION COIL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION; DTC P0352: NO. 2 CYLINDER IGNITION COIL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION; DTC P0353: NO. 3 CYLINDER IGNITION COIL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION; DTC P0354: NO. 4 CYLINDER IGNITION COIL CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION ), or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM (see SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM ), then recheck. If the system works properly, and the ECM/PCM was substituted, replace the original ECM/PCM (see ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT ).
  11. Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.
Factory Service Tools

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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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