Engine Compression Inspection

NOTE: After the inspection, you must reset the PCM. Otherwise, the PCM will continue to stop the fuel injectors from operating.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 HOW TO USE THE HDS (HONDA DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM) ).
Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the PCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ).
Select ALL INJECTORS STOP in the PGM-FI INSPECTION menu with the HDS.
Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
Remove the six ignition coils and the six spark plugs (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
Attach the compression gauge to a spark plug hole.

Fig 1: Attaching Compression Gauge To Spark Plug Hole
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Step on the accelerator pedal to open the throttle fully, then crank the engine with the starter motor, and measure the compression.
Compression Pressure

Above 930 kPa (9.48 kgf/cm ² , 134.8 psi)
Measure the compression on the remaining cylinders.
Maximum Variation

Within 200 kPa (2.04 kgf/cm ² , 29.0 psi)
If the compression is not within specifications, perform a cylinder leak down test to determine the problem area. Then check the following items, and remeasure the compression:
- Incorrect valve clearance
- Confirmation of cam timing
- Damaged or worn cam lobes
- Damaged or worn valves and seats
- Damaged cylinder head gasket
- Damaged or worn piston rings
- Damaged or worn piston and cylinder bore
Remove the compression gauge from the spark plug hole.
Install the six spark plugs and the six ignition coils (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
Select PCM reset (see IF THE MIL DID NOT STAY ON ) in the PGM-FI INSPECTION menu to cancel ALL INJECTORS STOP with the HDS.