Ignition System: Testing and Inspection
ON-VEHICLE INSPECTIONNOTE: In this section, the terms "cold" and "hot" refer to the temperature of the coils.
- "Cold" means approximately -10 to 50 degree C (14 to 122 degree F).
- "Hot" means approximately 50 to 100 degree C (122 to 212 degree F).
1. PERFORM SPARK TEST
a. Check for DTCs.
NOTE: If a DTC is present, perform troubleshooting procedures for that DTC.
b. Check if spark occurs.
1. Remove the ignition coil.
2. Remove the spark plug.
3. Install the spark plugs to the ignition coil and connect the ignition coil connector.
4. Disconnect the 8 injector connectors.
5. Ground the spark plug.
6. Visually check that sparks occur while the engine is being cranked.
NOTE: To prevent gasoline from being injected from injectors during this test, crank the engine 5 to 10 seconds at a time.
- Be sure to ground the spark plug when checking.
- If the ignition coil has been struck or dropped, replace it.
- Do not crank the engine for more than 2 seconds.
c. Perform the spark test according to the flowchart.
1. Check that the wire harness side connector of the ignition coil with igniter is securely connected.
2. Perform a spark test on each ignition coil with igniter.
1. Replace the ignition coil with igniter with a normal one.
2. Perform the spark test again.
3. Check the power supply to the ignition coil with igniter.
1. Turn the ignition switch ON.
2. Check that there is battery voltage at the ignition coil positive (+) terminal.
4. Check the resistance of the camshaft position sensor.
5. Check the resistance of the crankshaft position sensor.
6. Check IGT signal from the ECM.
d. Using a 16 mm plug wrench, install the 8 spark plugs.
Torque: 17.5 N.m (178 kgf.cm, 13 ft.lbf)
e. Install the ignition coil with the bolt.
Torque: 7.5 N.m (76 kgf.cm, 66 in.lbf)
2. CHECK SPARK PLUG
NOTE:
- Do not use a wire brush for cleaning.
- Do not attempt to adjust the electrode gap of a used spark plug.
a. Check the electrode.
1. Using a megohmmeter, measure the insulation resistance.
Insulation resistance:
10 MOhms or more
HINT: If a megohmmeter is not available, perform the simple inspection instead.
b. Alternative inspection method:
1. Quickly accelerate the engine to 4,000 rpm 5 times.
2. Remove the spark plug.
3. Visually check the spark plug. If the electrode is dry, the spark plug is functioning properly. If the electrode is damp, proceed to the next step.
c. Check the spark plug for any damage on its thread and insulator. If there is damage, replace the spark plug. If not, reinstall the spark plug.
d. Check the spark plug electrode gap.
Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug:
1.3 mm (0.051 in.)
If the gap is greater than the maximum, replace the spark plug.
Electrode gap for new spark plug:
1.0 to 1.1 mm (0.039 to 0.043 in.)
NOTE: When adjusting the gap of a new spark plug, bend only the base of the ground electrode. Do not touch the tip. Never attempt to adjust the gap of a used spark plug.