Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSSUBARU1996LEGACY WAGON 4WD F4-2.2L SOHCREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISPOWERTRAIN MANAGEMENTCOMPUTERS AND CONTROL SYSTEMSDESCRIPTION AND OPERATIONCONTROL SYSTEMIGNITION SYSTEM CONTROL
1996 Subaru Legacy Wagon 4WD F4-2.2L SOHC
Ignition System Control
1996 Subaru Legacy Wagon 4WD F4-2.2L SOHCSECTION Ignition System Control
IGNITION CONTROL SYSTEM

- The ignition control system is controlled by the ECM.
The ECM determines the optimal ignition timing according to signals sent from various sensors (which monitor the operating conditions of the engine), and sends a signal to the igniter
- The ECM has a "closed-loop" control function with map which provides superb transient characteristics for responsive ignition timing control.

- The ECM receives signals emitted from the mass air flow sensor, engine coolant temperature A sensor, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, etc.,to judge the operating condition of the engine. It then selects the optimum ignition timing stored in the memory and immediately transmits a primary current OFF signal to the igniter to control the ignition timing.
- This system control type features a quick-to-response learning control method by which data stored in the ECM memory is processed in comparison with information emitted from various sensors and switches.
- Thus, the ECM constantly provides the optimum ignition timing in relation to output, fuel consumption, exhaust gas, etc., according to various engine operating conditions, etc.
- Ignition control under normal engine conditions
Between the 97° signal and the 65° signal, the ECM measures the engine speed, and by using this data it decides the dwell set timing and ignition timing according to the engine condition.

- Ignition control under starting conditions
Engine speed fluctuate at the starting condition, so the ECM cannot control the ignition timing. When such a condition exists, ignition timing is fixed at 10° BTDC by using the 100 signal.
- The ignition control system is controlled by the ECM.
The ECM determines the optimal ignition timing according to signals sent from various sensors (which monitor the operating conditions of the engine), and sends a signal to the igniter
- The ECM has a "closed-loop" control function with map which provides superb transient characteristics for responsive ignition timing control.
- The ECM receives signals emitted from the mass air flow sensor, engine coolant temperature A sensor, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, etc.,to judge the operating condition of the engine. It then selects the optimum ignition timing stored in the memory and immediately transmits a primary current OFF signal to the igniter to control the ignition timing.
- This system control type features a quick-to-response learning control method by which data stored in the ECM memory is processed in comparison with information emitted from various sensors and switches.
- Thus, the ECM constantly provides the optimum ignition timing in relation to output, fuel consumption, exhaust gas, etc., according to various engine operating conditions, etc.
- Ignition control under normal engine conditions
Between the 97° signal and the 65° signal, the ECM measures the engine speed, and by using this data it decides the dwell set timing and ignition timing according to the engine condition.
- Ignition control under starting conditions
Engine speed fluctuate at the starting condition, so the ECM cannot control the ignition timing. When such a condition exists, ignition timing is fixed at 10° BTDC by using the 100 signal.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.