Ignition Timing

Apply parking brake.
Warm up engine to normal operating temperature.
Turn OFF all electrical loads.
Connect timing light to number one spark plug wire.
NOTE: A rubber inspection plug has been provided in the plastic coil cover (center of the cylinder head cover) directly over the number one (1) spark plug wire. Remove the inspection plug and connect the inductive pick-up of your tachometer or timing light to the number one (1) spark plug wire. If your tachometer/timing light inductive pick-up is too large, the coil cover will have to be removed.
Verify that ignition timing marks on crankshaft pulley and timing mark on timing belt cover are aligned.
Ignition timing: BTDC 5° +/- 10° (at idle speed)

NOTE: Ignition timing is not adjustable.
If timing is not within the specified range, replace the ECM.

Fig 1: Checking Ignition Timing
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.