FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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Compression Check: Testing and Inspection






Compression Pressure, Checking

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

Spark Plug Removal Tool (3122 B)

Ignition Coil Puller (T40039)

Torque Wrench (5-50 Nm) (V.A.G 1331)

Compression Tester (V.A.G 1763)

Adapter (V.A.G 1381/5A)

Test Conditions

The engine oil temperature must be at least 30 °C (86 °F).

The voltage supply is OK.

- Remove the engine cover with air filter. Refer to => [ Engine Cover with Air Filter ] Engine Cover With Air Filter.

- Disconnect the connectors from all the fuel injectors.

- Remove the ignition coils with power output stage. Refer to => [ Ignition Coil with Power Output Stage ] Service and Repair.

- Remove the spark plugs using the spark plug removal tool (3122 B).

- Check the compression using the compression tester (V.A.G 1763) and the adapter (V.A.G 1381/5A).

Using the compression tester, refer to the operating instructions.

- Operate the starter until the tester no longer indicates that the pressure is increasing.

Compression Pressure






By disconnecting the connectors, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored to memory. After the test, check the DTC memory and erase, if necessary.

- Read the Engine Control Module (ECM) DTC memory. Refer to the vehicle diagnostic tester.