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Mechanical Inspection: Compression

  1. Deactivate fuel injection system by removing Digital Motor Electronics (DME) master relay and fuel pump relay before performing compression test. See DME & FUEL PUMP RELAY LOCATION table. Ensure battery is fully charged.
  2. Ensure engine coolant temperature does not exceed 95°F (35°C). Turn 2 fasteners on electric lead cover 90 degrees and remove electric lead cover. Repeat for other cover on V8 engines. Disconnect spark plug connectors.
  3. Using 16-mm Socket (121171) and Torque Limiter (121172), remove spark plugs. Use Pressure Gauge (110162), Test Adapter (110166) and Tube Extension (110167) to check compression pressure. See ENGINE COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS table.
COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS

Application Specification
Compression Ratio
4-Cylinder 10.0:1
6-Cylinder
M3, Z3 & 328 Series 10.2:1
323 Series 10.5:1
V8 10.0:1
Compression Pressure
All Models 142-156 psi (10-11 kg/cm2 )
DME & FUEL PUMP RELAY LOCATION

Application Location
Z3
DME Relay Under Left Side Of Instrument Panel, Next To Kick Panel
Fuel Pump Relay Right Rear Corner Of Engine Compartment, Next To DME ECU
3-Series (1)
DME & Fuel Pump Relays Left Rear Corner Of Engine Compartment, In Relay Box
5-Series & 7-Series
DME Relay Right Rear Corner Of Engine Compartment, Next To DME ECU
Fuel Pump Relay Right Side Of Trunk
8-Series
DME & Fuel Pump Relays Right Rear Corner Of Engine Compartment, Next To DME ECU
(1) See Fig 1 and Fig 2 .
Fig 1: Locating DME & Fuel Pump Relays (318ti)
G98G11292Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Fig 2: Locating DME & Fuel Pump Relays (M3, 323 & 328 Series)
G98H11293Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.