LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Mazda >> 1994 >> MX-3 Base, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Engine Controls - Basic Testing >> Preliminary Inspection & Adjustments >> Mechanical Inspection >> Compression
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Mechanical Inspection: Compression

Check engine mechanical condition with a compression gauge, vacuum gauge, or an engine analyzer. See engine analyzer manual for specific instructions.

WARNING: DO NOT use ignition switch during compression tests on fuel injected vehicles. Use a remote starter to crank engine. Fuel injectors on many models are triggered by ignition switch during cranking mode, which can create a fire hazard or contaminate the engine's oiling system.
COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS

Application Minimum psi (kg/cm2 ) @ RPM Standard psi (kg/cm2 ) @ RPM
MX-3
1.6L 135 (9.5) @ 300 192 (13.5) @ 300
1.8L 142 (10.0) @ 300 198 (13.6) @ 300
Protege
SOHC (1) 121 (8.5) @ 300 173 (12.2) @ 300
DOHC (1) 128 (9.0) @ 300 182 (12.8) @ 300
323 135 (9.5) @ 300 192 (13.5) @ 300
(1) Difference between cylinders should not be more than 28 psi (2.0 kg/cm2 ).
scientia non olet · About LEMON Manuals