So I had my fed-spec-ypipe-intake-car smog checked in Cali today.
I passed the emissions test and the guy let me slide on the visual inspection because it was a K&N filter.

Anyway. I failed the ignition timing text.
I'm at 18 degrees.
The guy said that it should be around 15 and that new spark plugs may help.

What do you guys think?

I don't know why it's at 18. I don't know how to change it either.

Does the octane level in gas change things? O2 sensors?
Or maybe the relocated tiny intake sensor?

 

Gas will definitely affect timing. Were you using premium fuel? Using 87 octane may cause timing to be retarded.

What's the other maintenance history (plugs, PCV valve, filters, etc.)?

 

yeah.. should i have not?

 

Premium fuel is the right kind... so at least you are on the right track there.

When where the plugs changes, oil changes, fuel filter, etc? do you know the maintenance history?

 

Oh, is the CEL set? any codes?

 

There is no CEL.
Plugs were changed summer of 2003, about 20K ago.
Oil changed about 2 months ago.
Fuel filter... ohh.... I don't think I've ever changed that...
O2 were changed about 60k ago in 2001-ish.

 

What brand/type plugs?
What weight oil/brand do you use? (how many miles ago is 2 months)
What mpg are you getting? (if you know)

 

Pull the codes anyway - even though the CEL is not set, the knock sensor might be bad. If you get 0304, its time for a new knock sensor. That will definitely affect timing.

 

NGK Platinums

Castrol GTX 10W-40 with Restore 1800 miles ago

I have no idea what mpg I'm getting. I floor it too often to keep a steady rate. I get about 310ish a tank right at empty line.

 

Stop the press.. I just realized that your timing is advanced, not retarded... all the things I mention (fuel, knock sensor) will retard timing... not sure what would cause advanced timing.

 

Knock sensors were replaced in the summer of 2003 too.

 

Yeah. That's the thing... my timing is advanced...
How do I retard it, safely?

 

How in the world did the guy check your timing? The process is detailed in the service manual. I doubt any state inspection requires an ignition timing check to pass or has a timing light and specific instructions and specs per/vehicle to accomplish the task.

Sprak plugs have nothing to do with the timing of their firing.

Timing is not adjustable in 4th gens. If it's out of spec, check the crank shaft position sensors or have the car's ECU serviced/replaced.

Honestly, I think you were given a line of ****, it makes no sense.

 

i have to agree with u on this....the only way to advance timing is with high octane gas or SMT-6/7....our computers automatically adjust timing according to knock sensing capabilities...if it aint knocking timing keeps going up....I dunno what the most advacned timing should be if its 15 degrees or what but timing could change for various reasons all the timing

 

So, using 87 or even 85 octance fuel might retard my timing?

 

NJMax said it. How in the world can an inspection station check for timing unless he uses a timing light which is not part of an inspection test. He just blowing smoke b/c he thought you were maybe one of those kids who drives around with a fart can. I say don't worry about it and keep on just keep on.

 

Your inspector is