Ensure vehicle is at normal operating temperature, all accessories are off and transmission is in Park or Neutral. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position and curb idle speed is set to specification.
Ground ignition timing adjustment connector Light Green/Red wire. See Fig 1 or Fig 2 . Check ignition basic timing. See IGNITION TIMING table. Disconnect ground wire on ignition timing adjustment connector. Check ignition actual timing. See IGNITION TIMING table.
If timing is incorrect, loosen distributor hold-down nut and turn distributor until timing is correct. On 1.5L and 2.4L engines, ignition timing will be advanced if distributor is turned to the left and retarded if turned to the right.
On 3.0L engines, ignition timing will be advanced if distributor is turned to the right and retarded if turned to the left. After adjustment, tighten hold-down nut. Ensure distributor does not move when tightening hold-down nut.

IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC@RPM)

Application

⁽¹⁾ Basic

⁽²⁾ Actual

1.5L

3-7@600-800

10@600-800

2.4L

3-7@650-850

10@650-850

3.0L

3-7@600-800

15@600-800

⁽¹⁾	With ignition timing adjustment connector grounded.

⁽²⁾	With ignition timing adjustment connector ungrounded.

Fig 1: Grounding Ign. Timing Adj. Connector (Excel, Scoupe & Precis)

Courtesy of HYUNDAI MOTOR CO.

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 Adjustment