Q: How to check and adjust valve clearances on the Honda Fit?
A: The manufacturer states that valve adjustment is only necessary as a routine maintenance item if the valves are noisy. Valve clearances on these models generally do not need adjustment unless valve-train components have been replaced, or a valve job has been performed. The simplest check for proper valve adjustment is to listen carefully to the engine running with the hood open. if the valve train is noisy, adjustment is necessary. The valve clearance must be checked and adjusted with the engine cold. Remove the valve cover. Place the number one piston (closest to the drivebelt end of the engine) at Top Dead Center (TDC)on the compression stroke. This is accomplished by rotating the crank-shaft in the normal direction of rotation (which is clockwise) until the white TDC mark on the crankshaft pulley aligns with the timing pointer on the timing chain cover and the UP mark on the camshaft sprocket is at the twelve o'clock position. With the engine in this position, the number one cylinder valve adjustment can be checked and adjusted. Start with the intake valve clearance. Insert a feeler gauge of the correct thickness. Withdraw it; you should feel a slight drag. lf there's no drag or a heavy drag, loosen the adjuster nut and back off the adjuster screw. Carefully tighten the adjuster screw until you can feel a slight drag on the feeler gauge as you withdraw it. Hold the adjuster screw with a screwdriver (to keep it from turning) and tighten the locknut. Recheck the clearance to make sure it hasn't changed. Repeat the procedure on the other intake valve, then on the two exhaust valves. After adjusting the second clearance on a pair of valves, re-check the clearance of the first one and readjust if necessary. Rotate the crankshaft pulley 180-degrees clockwise (the camshaft pulley will turn90-degrees) until the number three cylinder is at TDC. Check and adjust the number three cylinder valves. Rotate the crankshaft pulley 180-degrees clockwise until the number four cylinder is at TDC. Check and adjust the number four cylinder valves. Rotate the crankshaft pulley 180-degrees clockwise to bring the number two cylinder to TDC. Check and adjust the number two cylinder valves. Install the valve cover.