I think my timing has slipped

IGNITION TIMING
CAUTION: To prevent damage to scan tool, always turn ignition switch to OFF
position before connecting or disconnecting scan tool.
NOTE: Ignition timing is controlled by Engine Control Module (ECM) or
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and is not adjustable. Manufacturer
provides procedure for checking timing. On models with distributor,
DO NOT attempt to adjust ignition timing by rotating distributor.
EXCEPT DIAMANTE
Connect scan tool to OBD-II Data Link Connector (DLC) located below instrument panel, to
right of steering column (except Montero Sport) or left of steering column (Montero Sport). See
Fig. 31 -Fig. 37. Install timing light. Start and warm engine until engine coolant temperature is
176-203°F (80-95°C). Turn lights and accessories off. Put automatic transmission in Park or
manual transmission in Neutral.
1.
Allow engine to idle. Check and ensure engine curb idle speed is within specifications for
timing check. Read base ignition timing value. See IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS
(Degrees BTDC @ RPM) table.
2.
CAUTION: MFI system actuator test must be cancelled after basic ignition
timing check or test will continue to run for 27 minutes. Driving
vehicle under this condition may damage engine.
Using scan tool, select MFI SYSTEM ACTUATOR TEST, then select item No. 17 (BASIC
IGNITION TIMING). If basic ignition timing is within specification, go to next step. If basic
ignition timing is not within specification, cancel MFI system actuator test and check for DTCs.
See appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article. Check timing belt cover and Crankshaft
Position (CKP) sensor installation. Check CKP sensor sensing blade condition. Repair as
necessary.
3.
Cancel MFI system actuator test. Read actual ignition timing value. See IGNITION TIMING
SPECIFICATIONS (Degrees BTDC @ RPM) table.
4.
DIAMANTE
Connect scan tool to OBD-II Data Link Connector (DLC) located below instrument panel, to
right of steering column. See Fig. 31. Install timing light. Start and warm engine until engine
coolant temperature is 176-203°F (80-95°C). Turn lights and accessories off. Put automatic
transmission in Park or manual transmission in Neutral. Insert a paper clip into No. 3 terminal
of 3 pin connector as illustrated. See Fig. 1. Connect a primary voltage type tachometer to
paper clip.
1.
Allow engine to idle. Check and ensure engine curb idle speed is within specifications for
timing check. Read base ignition timing value. See IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS
(Degrees BTDC @ RPM) table.
2.
ENGINE CONTROLS - ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS -2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evol. Page 1 of 2

CAUTION: MFI system actuator test must be cancelled after basic ignition
timing check or test will continue to run for 27 minutes. Driving
vehicle under this condition may damage engine.
Using scan tool, select MFI SYSTEM ACTUATOR TEST, then select item No. 17 (BASIC
IGNITION TIMING). Press "Y" key and check basic ignition timing. If basic ignition timing is
within specification, go to next step. If basic ignition timing is not within specification, cancel
MFI system actuator test and check for DTCs. See appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article.
Check timing belt cover and Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor installation. Check CKP sensor
sensing blade condition. Repair as necessary.
3.
Cancel MFI system actuator test. Read actual ignition timing value. See IGNITION TIMING
SPECIFICATIONS (Degrees BTDC @ RPM) table.
4.
Fig. 1: Connecting Tachometer (Diamante)
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
IGNITION TIMING SPECIFICATIONS (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)
Application Base Actual
Diamante 2-8 @ About 700 (1) (4) 10 @ About 700
Eclipse
2.4 2-8 @ About 700 (1) (3) 10 @ About 700
3.0L 2-8 @ About 700 (2) (3) 15 @ About 700
Galant
2.4L 2-8 @ About 700 (1) (3) 10 @ About 700
3.0L 2-8 @ About 700 (1) (3) 15 @ About 700
Lancer 2-8 @ About 700 (1) (3) 8 @ About 700
Montero 2-8 @ About 750 (1) (3) 10 @ About 750
Montero Sport 2-8 @ About 700 (2) (3) 10 @ About 700
Outlander 3-7 @ About 700 (1) (3) 10 @ About 700
(1) Timing will be advanced at higher altitudes, 5-10 degrees, depending on altitude.
(2) Timing will be advanced at higher altitudes, 5-15 degrees, depending on altitude.
(3) Actual ignition timing is approximate and may fluctuate plus or minus 7 degrees.
(4) Actual ignition timing is approximate and may fluctuate plus or minus 8 degrees.

ENGINE CONTROLS - ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS -2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evol. Page 2 of 2
If this doesn't work, you're going to have to pull the timing cover and check the crank and cam alignment.