Engine compression = engine power. A simple equation even we non-engineers can understand. In this post, we’ll look at how to test engine compression.
What is engine compression?
First, however, let’s define our terms.
Engine compression refers to the pressure your engine generates inside the cylinders while it’s running.
How much pressure the engine produces and how well it converts that pressure into usable work influence your engine’s efficiency and power.
How it all works and how wear and deposits can erode compression (i.e. horsepower) over time are interesting topics you can read more about here. But, today, we’re talking about how to test engine compression.
For this example, I used my 1998 Toyota Corolla. Don’t laugh. I paid cash for it and it runs as smooth as a sewing machine. I also sought the help of Pat Burgraff, one of the techs in our Mechanical Lab.
Check out the video or the step-by-step directions to find out how to test engine compression.
Time needed: 30 minutes.
How to Test Engine Compression
Ensure the vehicle won’t start when you crank it over
Testing compression requires you to crank the engine several revolutions, and you don’t want it to fire in the process. Remove the fuel-pump and fuel-injection fuses so you’re not dumping gas into the cylinders each time you crank the engine. Then, disconnect the coil packs. Bear in mind the process for your vehicle may be different from the images here.
2. Pull the spark plugs
Label the plug wires so you return them to the correct positions. Otherwise, your vehicle won’t start when you’re done. Thread the compression gauge into a spark plug opening. Take care not to cross-thread it. You can get a compression tester for less than $50 at most auto parts stores.
3. Crank the engine
Have a helper crank the engine 5-10 times, or until the needle on the compression gauge stops ratcheting up. Note the psi and move to the next cylinder.
4. Record results
Write down the results for each cylinder so you can compare and identify if compression is too low in one cylinder.
What’s considered “normal” engine compression?
Here’s where things grow murky. “Good” compression depends on the engine. Unfortunately, engines don’t come with their proper compression stamped on the outside.
But a good rule of thumb says that each cylinder in a mechanically sound engine should have compression of 130 psi or higher.
While I’ve seen some people claim 100 psi is sufficient, the gearheads and other sources I’ve consulted consider that too low.
In addition, you want consistency from one reading to the next.
Again, a good rule of thumb is no more than 10 percent variation between any of the cylinders.
That’s not to say 15 or 20 percent variation in one cylinder means your engine is junk. But a good, healthy engine should demonstrate minimal variation.
My trusty Corolla nailed the test, making between 165-175 psi in each cylinder.
A quick test if one cylinder has low compression
If one cylinder has low compression, try pouring about a teaspoon of oil into the spark-plug hole and retesting. If compression increases, it’s likely the rings are stuck or worn. The oil acts as a seal and helps close the gap between the rings and the cylinder wall through which the cylinder is losing pressure.
If that doesn’t work, it’s possible the valves or valve seals are worn.
If you suspect stuck rings, try an engine flush designed to clean deposits, such as AMSOIL Engine and Transmission Flush.
You can also try a fuel additive that cleans pistons, like AMSOIL P.i.
Why do engines lose compression?
I alluded to it above. The piston rings and valves must seal tightly to allow the cylinder to build pressure as the piston moves up and down.
Over time, wear can allow gaps to form between the piston rings and cylinder wall. Deposits in the ring lands can cause the rings to stick in their grooves rather than press tightly against the cylinder wall. Pressurized gases can escape through these gaps during operation, reducing compression (and horsepower).
To illustrate, imagine using a hydraulic floor jack. The release valve must be shut for the jack to elevate when you pump the handle. If the valve leaks, the jack will want to sink due to pressure escaping.
The same principle applies here.
Wear and deposits to the valve seals and seats can prevent the engine from building sufficient pressure to ignite the fuel/air mixture. That’s why old, worn out engines often crank over several times before they sputter to life; it takes several crankshaft revolutions to build proper cylinder pressure due to wear and deposits.
To maintain compression and power, use a premium synthetic motor oil and periodically use a fuel additive to help prevent wear and keep the combustion chamber clean.
Word to the wise: you may illuminate your check engine light performing this test, as I did. It went off by itself after driving a few miles, though.
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