Ignition System: Testing and Inspection

3UR-FE IGNITION: IGNITION SYSTEM:

ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION

1. PERFORM SPARK TEST
(a) Check for DTCs (Engine Control System - SFI System).

NOTE: If any DTC is present, perform troubleshooting procedures for that DTC.

(b) Check if sparks occur.
(1) Remove the ignition coils and spark plugs (Removal).
(2) Install the spark plug to the ignition coil and connect the ignition coil connector.
(3) Disconnect the 8 injector connectors.





(4) Ground the spark plug.
(5) Visually check that sparks occur while the engine is being cranked.

NOTICE:
- 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 procedures below:
(1) Check that the wire harness side connector of the ignition coil with igniter is securely connected.

Result





(2) Perform a spark test on each ignition coil with igniter.
1 If there is a cylinder where sparks do not occur, replace its ignition coil with the ignition coil of a cylinder where sparks occur normally.
2 Crank the engine and visually check that sparks occur at the cylinder with the normally operating ignition coil.

Result





(3) Check spark plug.

Result





(4) 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.

Result





(5) Check the VVT sensor for intake camshaft (P0340).
(6) Check the VVT sensor for exhaust camshaft (P0365).
(7) Check the camshaft position sensor (P1340).
(8) Check the crankshaft position sensor (P0335).
(9) Check the IGT signal circuit (P0351).
(d) Connect the 8 injector connectors.
(e) Install the ignition coils and spark plugs (Installation).
2. INSPECT SPARK PLUG

NOTICE:
- 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.
Standard insulation resistance:





If the insulation resistance is below the specified range, replace the spark plug.

HINT: If a megohmmeter is not available, perform the following simple inspection instead.

(b) Alternative inspection method:
(1) Quickly accelerate the engine to 4000 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 to its threads and insulator.
If there is any damage, replace the spark plug.
Recommended spark plug:





(d) Check the spark plug electrode gap.





Maximum electrode gap for a used spark plug:
1.3 mm (0.0512 in.)
If the gap is greater than the maximum, replace the spark plug.
Electrode gap for a new spark plug:
1.0 to 1.1 mm (0.0394 to 0.0433 in.)

NOTE: If 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 plug.





If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, allow it to dry and then clean it with a spark plug cleaner.
Standard air pressure:
588 kPa (6.0 kgf/cm2, 85 psi)
Standard duration:
20 seconds or less

HINT: Only use the spark plug cleaner when the electrode is free of oil. If the electrode has traces of oil, use gasoline to clean off the oil before using the spark plug cleaner.