Ignition Timing Inspection

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2004 Honda Odyssey, 2003 Honda Odyssey, 2002 Honda Odyssey, 2001 Honda Odyssey, and 2000 Honda Odyssey. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC) (see step 2 on IF THE MIL (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP) HAS COME ON ), and check for DTC's. If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before inspecting the ignition timing.
Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3,000 rpm with no load shift lever in Park or Neutral, until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
Check the idle speed, and adjust it if necessary (see page 11-201).
Follow the tester's prompts to get the tester in the "SCS" mode (see the tester operator's manual).
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 timing belt cover. Check the ignition timing under a no load conditions: headlights, blower fan, rear window defogger, and air conditioner are not operating.
Ignition Timing: 10°+/-2°BTDC (RED mark (B)) during idling in Park or Neutral

Fig 2: Aiming Light Toward Pointer On Timing Belt Cover
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the ignition timing differs from the specification, check the cam timing, and the top dead center (TDC) and crankshaft position (CKP) sensors. If necessary, substitute a known-good powertrain control module (PCM) and recheck . See HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE PCM FOR TESTING PURPOSE .
Turn the ignition switch OFF.
Disconnect the HDS and the timing light.