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    1. Gather necessary tools, including a compression tester, spark plug socket, ratchet, extensions, safety gloves, and goggles.

    2. Ensure the engine is off and cool to avoid burns or injuries.

    3. Disable the ignition system by disconnecting the ignition coil or coil wiring harness.

    4. Disable the fuel system by removing the fuel pump fuse or relay (refer to your vehicle's manual for the exact location).

    5. Remove all spark plugs using the spark plug socket and ratchet.

    6. Attach the compression tester to the first cylinder by screwing its adapter into the spark plug hole.

    7. Fully depress the accelerator pedal to open the throttle and crank the engine for 6–8 compression strokes.

    8. Record the compression reading displayed on the gauge.

    9. Release the pressure from the gauge using its release valve and move to the next cylinder.

    10. Repeat the process for all cylinders, recording each reading.

    11. Compare the readings. Compression should typically be consistent across cylinders, with no more than a 15–20% variance. Low readings may indicate issues like worn piston rings, damaged valves, or a blown head gasket.

    Learn more:
    1 -autozone.com2 -youtube.com3 -dannysengineportal.com
    How do you test engine compression?

    Disconnect spark plug wires. Make sure to disconnect them from all plugs then remove all spark plugs. Install your engine compression gauge into the first spark plug hole. You’ll want to test compression on an individual cylinder basis.

    yourmechanic.com
    AutoZone
    https://www.autozone.com/diy/ignition/how-to-do-an...
    How to Do an Engine Compression Test - AutoZone
  1. WikiHow
    https://www.wikihow.com › Do-a-Compression-Test

    How to Do a Compression Test: 15 Steps (with Pictures ...

    Dec 17, 2024 · Attach the compression test adapter into the cylinder nearest the front of the engine, then connect the gauge to the other end of the adapter hose. To perform the test, crank the engine 4 times …

    See results only from wikihow.com
  2. AutoZone
    https://www.autozone.com › diy › ignition › how-to-do-an...

    How to Do an Engine Compression Test - AutoZone

    Aug 11, 2021 · The engine compression test is one that can be done by nearly anyone with a basic knowledge of cars or trucks. Find everything from safety equipment and socket wrenches to …

  3. askmyauto.com
    https://askmyauto.com › engine-compression-test

    Engine Compression Test: A Comprehensive Guide - Ask My ...

    Jul 12, 2024 · An engine compression test measures the compression level in each cylinder of an engine. It helps diagnose engine problems and determine if there is any leakage or loss of compression.

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  5. Engineer Fix
    https://engineerfix.com › how-to-check-engine-compression...

    How to Check Engine Compression With a Compression Tester

    3 days ago · A compression test uses a specialized gauge to measure this peak cylinder pressure, assessing the engine’s mechanical sealing capability. This diagnostic procedure identifies internal …

  6. YouTube
    https://www.youtube.com › watch

    How To Check The Compression Of An Engine

    Feb 10, 2010 · Scotty Kilmer, mechanic for the last 46 years and counting, shows how to check the compression pressure inside your engine.

  7. wtb-machine.com
    https://wtb-machine.com › how-to-perform-a-compression-test

    Engine Compression Test: A How-To Guide to Perform a ...

    Aug 28, 2025 · It can provide a lot of information on the condition of your engine, such as the condition of the piston rings or the head gasket. For an experienced mechanic or a car enthusiast driver, this …

  8. 2CarPros
    https://www.2carpros.com › ... › how-to-test-engine-compression

    How to Perform a Compression Test on an Automotive Engine

    Nov 6, 2024 · A compression test is a valuable diagnostic procedure that helps determine the health of an engine by measuring the pressure generated in each cylinder. The following is a comprehensive …

  9. nissankaengine.com
    https://nissankaengine.com › how-to-check-compression-on...

    How To Check Compression On An Engine

    Jun 24, 2025 · A healthy engine builds good compression, while a worn or damaged engine exhibits lower than expected readings. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to perform a …

  10. Four Wheel Ask
    https://fourwheelask.com › how-to-check-compression-on-an...

    How To Check Compression On An Engine | Easy DIY Steps

    Dec 4, 2025 · To check compression on an engine, remove all spark plugs, disable the fuel and ignition systems, insert the gauge, and crank the engine for five pulses. Engines need three things to run: fuel, …

  11. autorepairba.com
    https://autorepairba.com › how-to-perform-a-compression...

    How to Quickly Identify Engine Health with Compression Tests

    Oct 23, 2024 · A compression test is a simple tool that helps you check how well your engine is working. By measuring the pressure in each cylinder, you can find problems like worn piston rings, leaky valves, …

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