Maxima Forums - 2k2 ignition timing questions

I had some routine maintenance done today on my 2k2 6-spd Max, and since I've experienced some pinging/knocking in the past I also had my ignition timing checked. So I had a couple of questions regarding timing.

First, is adjusting the ignition timing something any decent Nissan dealer should be able to do? When I told my dealer that I wanted him to check my timing and possibly adjust it (if it was on the high end) he immediately told me he couldn't do it (because it's computer controlled, would require a software update, and they didn't have that capability). Is that reasonable or a bunch of BS?

He measured my timing to be 16 deg. BTDC and said it was within spec. Since it's never been adjusted, that's the original value it was set to at the factory. Has anyone else with a 2k2 measured their factory timing? Would there even be any variation?

Also, he said the factory spec for the timing is 15 deg +/- 5 deg. Is that correct? 16 would put me slightly above middle, but it doesn't seem like enough to cause pinging/knocking. I would guess some of you are running at higher values without problems.