How to Adjust the Timing in a Nissan Maxima

Horsepower and improved fuel economy are a couple for reasons to adjust the timing on a Nissan Maxima. Changing the timing on a Nissan Maxima requires special tools and a clear understanding of engine mechanics. A Nissan Maxima without a distributor requires changing the ECO or having it professionally reprogrammed. This guide is for a Nissan Maxima with a distributed ignition.
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Timing light
Wrenches
1

Turn off any accessories such as the radio, lights and climate control. Allow the car to idle until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. Shut the engine down and locate the crankshaft pulley. Clean off any dirt or grime until the timing marks are exposed.
2

Connect the timing light to the battery then the number one ignition wire located at the driver's side front of the engine. Start the engine and hold the throttle at 2,000 RPM for 2 minutes.
3

Shut the engine off and remove the throttle position sensor located at the front of the throttle body. Start the engine again and rev it high three times for one second. Let the engine return to normal idle.
4

Aim the timing light at the crank pulley timing marks. If the lines on the pulley and the middle line on the timing light match the timing is correct. Adjust the timing of the Nissan Maxima by loosening the distributor mounting bolts, taking care not to let the camshaft position sensor.
5

Rotate the distributor slowly until the timing lines match the timing light and tighten the distributor mounting bolts. Recheck the timing and turn the engine off. Remove the timing light and reconnect the throttle position sensor and number one ignition wire.

Tips & Warnings

Forcing an engine to run out of its manufactured specified setting can cause serious and permanent damage to the engine.

Never pierce the ignition wire as misfiring or cross firing may result.