Compression Check: Testing and Inspection

NOTE: If there is lack of power, excessive oil consumption or poor fuel economy, measure the compression pressure.

1. Warm up and stop engine.
- Allow the engine to warm up to normal operating temperature.
2. Remove ignition coils and high-tension cords.
3. Remove spark plugs.
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the 6 spark plugs.
4. Check cylinder compression pressure.





(a) Insert a compression gauge into the spark plug hole.
(b) Fully open the throttle.
(c) While cranking the engine, measure the compression pressure.

NOTES:
- Always use a fully charged battery to obtain engine revolutions of 250 rpm or more.
- This measurement must be done in as short a time as possible.

(d) Repeat steps (a) through (c) for each cylinder.

Compression Pressure:
- Std: 1,500 kPa (218 psi) or more.
- Min: 1,000 kPa (145 psi)
Difference between each cylinder: 100 kPa (15 psi) or less

(e) If the cylinder compression in one or more cylinders is low, pour a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder through the spark plug hole and repeat steps (a) through (c) for cylinders with low compression.
- If adding oil helps the compression, it is likely that the piston rings and/or cylinder bore are worn or damage.
- If pressure stays low, a valve may be sticking or seating is improper, or there may be leakage past the gasket.

5. Reinstall spark plugs.
6. Install ignition coils and high-tension cords.