Ignition Timing Check

Required Special Tool: 

MB991958: Scan Tool (M.U.T.-III Sub Assembly)

• MB991824: V.C.I.
• MB991827: M.U.T.-III USB Cable
• MB991910: M.U.T.-III Main Harness A

1. Before inspection, set the vehicle in the following condition:
   • Engine coolant temperature: 80 - 95°C (176 - 203°F)
   • Lights and all accessories: OFF
   • Transaxle: Neutral (P range on vehicles with CVT)
     NOTE: On vehicles for Canada, the headlight, taillight, etc. remain lit even when the lighting switch is in "OFF" position but this is no problem for checks.
     CAUTION: To prevent damage to scan tool MB991958, always turn the ignition switch to the "LOCK" (OFF) position before connecting or disconnecting scan tool MB991958.
2. Connect scan tool MB991958 to the data link connector.
   Fig 1: Connecting Special Tool MB991910 To Data Link Connector

   Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
3. Set the timing light to the power supply line (terminal No. 3) of the ignition coil No. 1.
4. Start the engine and run it at idle.
5. Check that the idle speed is approximately 650 r/min.
6. Select scan tool MB991958 actuator test "item number 11".
7. Check that basic ignition timing is within the standard value.

   Standard value: 5° BTDC ± 3° 

   Fig 2: Identifying Power Supply Line (Terminal No. 3) Of Ignition Coil No. 1

   Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
8. If the basic ignition timing is not within the standard value, check the following items:
   • Diagnostic output
   • Timing chain cover and crankshaft position sensor installation conditions
   • Crankshaft sensing blade condition
     CAUTION: If the actuator test is not canceled, the forced drive will continue for 27 minutes. Driving in this state could lead to engine failure.
9. Cancel the setting mode of the scan tool MB991958.
10. Check that the actual ignition timing is at the standard value.

    Standard value: Approximately 10° BTDC 

    NOTE: The ignition timing fluctuates about ± 7°, even under normal operating condition.
    NOTE: It is automatically further advanced by about 5° from 10° Before Top Dead Center at higher altitudes.
    NOTE: Wait till approximately 1 minute passes after the engine started, and check the ignition timing when the engine stabilized.
11. Remove the timing light.
    CAUTION: To prevent damage to scan tool MB991958, always turn the ignition switch to the "LOCK" (OFF) position before connecting or disconnecting scan tool MB991958.
12. Disconnect scan tool MB991958 from the data link connector.