Car Smog Test Timing Question?

Question

I was told by a smog test technician that I had failed the smog test because of my timing on my car was at 20 and should have been at 15. It passed the part where it measures my exhaust. I'm questioning this because he went into my passenger with a paper clip wire and put it underneath my dashboard before taking the timing measurement. My question is about that paper clip underneath my dashboard. Is that normal protocal to do in a smog check?

Answer 1

Depends on the car but it sounds like he was putting the car into a diagnostic mode that enables you to read base timing. It is a very simple procedure to to fix the timing, he should have done it right there and then.



What kind of car is it? Year make and model?



Yes I just checked my manuals and the timing diagnostic connector is behind the glove box and the correct spec is 15 degrees but 17 is allowable according to Honda. As I said before, he should have corrected it if it was a problem, it's literally a 2 minute job once he had jumper in the connector. As far as being part of the test, it depends on your jurisdiction.

Answer 2

in order to check the timing on that engine.the computer has to be disabled so that it can not adjust the timing. that is done with a jumper under the dash on the passenger side inside fo the cab. my 90 civic was the same thing.

Answer 3

I've never heard of this.You would cross the A and B terminal in the OBD port to get an engine code.But not recommended in today's cars.WOW either i'm too tired or you've been shot a line of crap.