What are the symptoms of incorrect ignition timing?

[EdenRose]

Incorrect ignition timing leads to changes in combustion conditions, significant power loss and RPM fluctuations, inability to form high vacuum, and causes unstable idle and weak acceleration. Severe cases may prevent the engine from starting. If the ignition is too late, it may result in difficult starting or insufficient power. Below is additional information: 1. Over-advanced ignition timing: When starting the car, the engine turns heavily (difficult to start) with a jerking sensation. At idle, the engine shakes and may stall. There is a knocking sound during rapid acceleration. After starting, the engine tends to overheat and frequently boils during operation. 2. Over-retarded ignition timing: The engine feels sluggish, weak, or even overheats. When the throttle is suddenly opened wide, the engine speed cannot increase accordingly, and fuel consumption rises. During rapid acceleration, the exhaust pipe may sometimes backfire.

[MacGideon]

I've been driving the family's old car, and the symptoms of incorrect ignition timing are particularly obvious. The engine often fails to start, requiring multiple attempts before it fires up. Once running, the idle is unstable, and the car shakes from side to side as if dancing. During acceleration, the power is noticeably weak, and stepping on the gas pedal feels like the car has no strength, accompanied by strange popping sounds or slight explosions. Fuel consumption has skyrocketed, with a full tank running hundreds of kilometers less than usual. The exhaust smells unpleasant and sometimes emits black smoke. These issues are mostly caused by aging ignition systems, such as misaligned distributors or damaged sensors. If not repaired promptly, engine wear will worsen, leading to costly part replacements. Pay attention to these symptoms while driving and get the timing adjusted at a repair shop as soon as possible to save a lot of trouble.

[CharlesAnn]

As an ordinary driver, incorrect ignition timing can significantly degrade the driving experience. The car shakes and vibrates excessively at idle, and starting becomes difficult with prolonged cranking time. During sudden acceleration, the engine produces loud knocking sounds, and power delivery becomes uneven, as if struggling to breathe. The tachometer also jumps erratically and remains unstable. There's even a risk of sudden engine stalling at high speeds, which can be quite dangerous. I've noticed a substantial increase in fuel consumption due to poor combustion efficiency, accompanied by black smoke from the exhaust. Common causes include a loose timing belt or faulty ECU settings, emphasizing the need for regular maintenance to prevent minor issues from escalating into major safety hazards.

[JakeFitz]

Symptoms of incorrect ignition timing include prolonged engine start-up delay with abnormal starting sounds, severe idle shaking making the vehicle feel unstable. During acceleration, power response is sluggish without explosive force, sometimes accompanied by detonation noises. Exhaust may emit black smoke, polluting the environment. I recommend prompt inspection and repair to prevent engine overheating or component damage.