Ignition Timing Inspection

Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC) (see step 2 on HOW TO USE THE HDS (HONDA DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM) ), and check for DTCs. If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before inspecting the ignition timing.
Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3,000 RPM without load (in Park or neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
Check the idle speed (see IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT ).
Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
Connect the timing light to the No. 1 ignition coil wire.

Fig 1: Connecting Timing Light To No. 1 Ignition Coil Wire
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Aim the light toward the pointer (A) on the oil pump. Check the ignition timing under no load condition. (Headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are turned off.)
Ignition Timing:

12° +/-2° BTDC [RED mark (B)] at idle in P or N

position (CVT) or Neutral (M/T)

Fig 2: Identifying Ignition Timing
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 engine control module (ECM) if it does not have the latest software (2002-2006 M/T models and CVT model) (see ECM UPDATING AND SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING-2002-2006 M/T MODELS AND CVT MODEL ), or substitute a known-good ECM 2000-2001 M/T models (see HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE ECM FOR TESTING PURPOSES-2000-2001 M/T MODELS ), 2002-2006 M/T models and CVT model (see ECM UPDATING AND SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING-2002-2006 M/T MODELS AND CVT MODEL ), then recheck. If the system work properly, and the ECM was substituted, replace the original ECM (see ECM REPLACEMENT ).
Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.