4-Cylinder Ignition Timing

Ensure engine is at normal operating temperature and idle speed is correct. Place transaxle in Neutral (or Park on A/T).
On fuel-injected models, ensure throttle valve is closed and throttle position sensor is correctly adjusted. Plug in the 2 test mode connector wires as shown in illustration. See Fig 1 through Fig 3 .

Fig 1: Test Mode Connector Locations (MPFI) (Exc. XT)
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Test Mode Connector Locations (SPFI) (Exc. XT)
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Test Mode Connector Locations - XT
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Check ignition timing. Timing marks on XT are on crankshaft pulley. On other models, timing mark is on flywheel, and is visible through hole in flywheel housing. If necessary, adjust ignition timing by loosening distributor hold-down bolt and rotating distributor.

NOTE: The "CHECK ENGINE" warning light will light when checking timing, this does not indicate a problem. Ignition timing cannot be set if idle contacts in TPS are open and test mode connector is not plugged in.

4-CYLINDER IGNITION TIMING (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application	Man. Trans.	Auto. Trans.
1.8L	20 @ Idle	20 @ Idle