Compression Check: Testing and Inspection

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer L4-2.4L SOHCSECTION Testing and Inspection
COMPRESSION PRESSURE CHECK
1. Before checks, check that the engine oil, starter and battery are normal. Also, set the vehicle in the following condition:
^ Engine coolant temperature: 80 - 95°C (176 - 203°F)
^ Lights and all accessories: OFF
^ Transaxle: Neutral (P range on vehicles with A/T)

NOTE: Vehicles for Canada, the headlight, taillight, etc. remain lit even when the lighting switch is in "OFF" position but this is no problem for checks.

2. Remove all of the ignition coils.





3. Disconnect the crankshaft position sensor connector.

NOTE: Doing this will prevent the engine control module from carrying out ignition and fuel injection.

WARNING: Keep your distance from the spark plug hole when cranking. Oil, fuel, etc., may spray out from the spark plug hole and may cause serious injury.

4. Cover the spark plug hole with a shop towel etc., during cranking. After the engine has been cranked, check for foreign material adhering to the shop towel.





5. Set a compression gauge to one of the spark plug holes.
6. Crank the engine with the throttle valve fully open and measure the compression pressure.
Standard value (at engine speed of 200 r/min): 1,560 kPa (226 psi)
Minimum limit (at engine speed of 200 r/min): 1,130 kPa (164 psi)
7. Measure the compression pressure for all the cylinders, and check that the pressure differences of the cylinders are below the limit.
Limit: 98 kPa (14 psi)
8. If there is a cylinder with compression or a compression difference that is outside the limit, pour a small amount of engine oil through the spark plug hole, and repeat the operations in steps 6 to 8.
1. If the compression increases after oil is added, the cause of the malfunction is a worn or damaged piston ring and/or cylinder inner surface.
2. If the compression does not rise after oil is added, the cause is a burnt or defective valve seat, or pressure is leaking from the gasket.
9. Connect the crankshaft position sensor connector.
10. Install the ignition coils.
11. Use the scan tool to erase the diagnostic trouble codes.

NOTE: This will erase the diagnostic trouble code resulting from the crankshaft position sensor connector being disconnected.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.