Ignition Timing Inspection

Remove the engine compartment covers (see ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER REPLACEMENT )
Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC) (see step 2 on GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION )
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode
Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the powertrain control module (PCM) If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING )
Check for DTCs (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ) If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before continuing with this test
Start the engine Hold the engine speed at 3,000 rpm with no load (in N or P) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle
Check the idle speed (see IDLE SPEED INSPECTION )
Jump the SCS line with the HDS
Connect the timing light to the No 1 ignition coil harness

Fig 1: Connecting Timing Light To No 1 Ignition Coil Harness
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Aim the light toward the pointer (A) on the timing belt cover Check the ignition timing under a no load condition (headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are turned off)
NOTE: The other pointer (C) is not used

Ignition Timing

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

Fig 2: Identifying Pointer
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check the cam timing If the cam timing is OK, update the PCM if it does not have the latest software (see ECM/PCM UPDATE ), or substitute a known-good PCM (see SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM ), then recheck If the system works properly, and the PCM was substituted, replace the original PCM (see ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT )
Disconnect the HDS and the timing light
Install the engine compartment covers (see ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER REPLACEMENT )