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.

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HOMESERVICE MANUALSSUBARU2002FORESTER BASEREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISENGINE PERFORMANCEENGINE CONTROLS - ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTSIGNITION TIMING3.0L

2002 Subaru Forester Base

Ignition Timing: 3.0L

2002 Subaru Forester BaseSECTION 3.0L

Before checking ignition timing, check the following: Ensure that air cleaner element is free from clogging, spark plugs are in good condition, and that hoses are connected properly. Ensure that malfunction indicator light (check Engine light) does not illuminate.
Warm the engine.
Stop the engine, and turn ignition switch to "OFF".
When using Subaru Select Monitor: Insert the cartridge to Subaru Select Monitor. Connect Subaru Select Monitor to the data link connector on left side of dash, under hood release lever. Turn ignition switch to "ON", and Subaru Select Monitor switch to "ON". Select "Each System Check" in Main Menu. Select "Engine Control System" in Selection Menu. Select "1 Current Data Display & Save" in Engine Control System Diagnosis. Select "1.12 Data Display" in Data Display Menu. Start engine at idle speed and check the ignition timing. See IGNITION TIMING table. If the timing is not correct, check the ignition control system. See appropriate BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES article.

IGNITION TIMING ⁽¹⁾ (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application

Auto. Trans.

Man. Trans.

3.0L ⁽²⁾

10 @ 600

.....

⁽¹⁾	To improve stability, timing is controlled while engine is idling. Timing range is plus or minus 8 degrees.

⁽²⁾	Timing must be checked using a scan tool.

Fig 1: Identifying 6-Cylinder Engine Configuration & Firing Order

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

RENDER: 1.0x

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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.