Start engine and warm to normal operating temperature. Ensure idle speed is less than 1000 RPM. Run engine at 2000 RPM under no load for 2 minutes. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). See SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - INTRODUCTION article.
If any DTCs are present, perform diagnosis for DTC(s). See appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article. If no DTCs are present, run engine at 2000 RPM under no load for 2 minutes. Release throttle. Increase engine speed to 2000 RPM, 2 or 3 times, then allow engine to idle for one minute.
Turn ignition off. Disconnect Throttle Position (TP) sensor harness connector. Start engine and increase engine speed to 2000 RPM 2 or 3 times. Release throttle. Check ignition timing. See IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS table. See Fig 1, Fig 2, Fig 3 or Fig 4 .
On all models except Maxima and Sentra 1.8L, if ignition timing is incorrect, loosen hold-down bolt and turn distributor to adjust ignition timing. On Maxima, ignition timing is not adjustable. If ignition timing is incorrect, check CMP sensor and both CKP sensors. See DTC P0340: CAMSHAFT POSITION (CMP) SENSOR, DTC P0335 OR P1336: CRANKSHAFT POSITION (CKP) SENSOR (POS) and DTC P1335: CRANKSHAFT POSITION (CKP) SENSOR (REF) in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - MAXIMA article.

IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS ⁽¹⁾

Application

Degrees BTDC

Altima, Frontier & Xterra (4-Cyl.)

18-22

Sentra

1.8L

7-11

2.0L

13-17

V6 Models

13-17

⁽¹⁾	With transmission/transaxle in Neutral.

Fig 1: Locating Ignition Timing Marks (Altima & Frontier 4-Cylinder)

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

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.

Safety Warning

Ignition Timing