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Forum > Emissions Component > Question

2001 Honda Accord 2.2 Liter. My car's ignition timing is off.

I think that my timing is off I need to know how important ignition timing is. How does engine timing affect the California smog test, and will my Honda pass the emission test if the timing is off a few degrees?
Answer:

Your Honda Accord engine ignition timing will be inspected during the smog test. The smog technician will ensure ignition timing is set properly, and the ignition system is supplying electrical current to the sparkplugs at the correct intervals. A 2001 Honda Accord with a 2.2 liter engine needs to have it's ignition timing set to 15 degrees before top dead center, and ignition timing must be tested while your Honda's engine is idling at 700 RPM. Your Accord's engine ignition timing will be measured in degrees. An ignition timing failure for example; your car's ignition timing is required to be set at 15 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) and instead is set to 10 After Top Dead Center (ATDC). This fault will cause a functional failure, as well as increase Hydrocarbon (HC) emissions. California's emissions standards allow timing to be up to 3 degrees +/- off the manufacturer's required setting; resetting is recommend. One or two degrees off will not cause your vehicle to fail the ignition timing inspection. posted by SmogTips Support

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