What you might be experiencing is a symptom *of* a timing issue, but you won't be adjusting it directly like you would on older carbureted cars. If your Metro is having issues that seem related to timing (rough running, poor acceleration, misfires), the likely culprits are:
* Distributor Cap and Rotor: These wear out and can cause misfires. They should be inspected and replaced as needed.
* Ignition Wires: Cracked or damaged wires can cause misfires.
* Spark Plugs: Worn spark plugs are a common cause of misfiring.
* Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): This sensor tells the computer the position of the crankshaft. A faulty sensor can cause timing-related problems. This is a more advanced repair.
* Computer (ECM): Though less common, a faulty ECM could be the culprit. This is an expensive repair usually requiring professional diagnosis.
Instead of trying to adjust timing (which you can't), you should focus on troubleshooting these components:
1. Check the obvious: Start with the easily accessible parts: inspect the distributor cap and rotor for cracks or carbon tracking. Replace if necessary. Inspect the spark plug wires for cracks or damage. Replace if necessary.
2. Replace spark plugs: This is cheap and often solves many running problems. Use the correct spark plugs as specified in your owner's manual.
3. Professional Diagnosis: If the problem persists after checking the simple things, take it to a mechanic with a scan tool. They can check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that might indicate a faulty sensor (like the CKP) or other electrical issue.
In short, don't try to adjust the timing. Address the possible causes listed above. A scan tool will be extremely helpful in diagnosing the problem.
