Mike RStein

Just got smogged yesterday and failed because of failed ignition timing. Find out my car wax exempt from getting that tested by another smog check place that passed my car.

My question is:

1999 Honda Civic:

Does it have a computer controlled ignition system with no timing adjustment (makes it exempt)

Or does it have a timing adjustment.

Thanks all, I know nothing about cars

sidewayz2013

Is it a LX, EX, SI, etc?

In any case, the distributor should have a small amount of adjustment to it. Loosen the bolts on the distributor, not the cap but the whole thing. (not all the way out, just enough to turn the dizzy) and rotate it. IIRC it should be counterclockwise to advance it, and clockwise to retard it. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

Then tighten the bolts and take it for a test run. If you hear a pinging or knocking from the engine, pull over, turn it off, and retard it a bit more. If anyone else has any more input, please do contribute.

Former User

It has both. You set the base timing with a timing light and then the computer adjusts the timing depending on conditions.