Lost Compression in Engine - What Should I Check First?

Technical Discussions
1

Hey everyone,

I’ve recently been experiencing some issues with my engine, and I suspect I might have lost compression. I’m hoping to get some insights on what could be the possible causes, how to diagnose it, and what steps I should take next.

Symptoms I’ve Noticed:

  • Rough Idling: The engine isn’t running as smoothly as it used to.
  • Power Loss: I feel like there’s a noticeable drop in acceleration.
  • Excessive Oil Consumption: I’ve been having to top up the oil more frequently than before.

Potential Causes:

I’ve read that lost compression can be due to:

  • Worn piston rings
  • Blown head gasket
  • Valve issues
  • Cylinder scoring

What I’ve Tried:

So far, I’ve checked the spark plugs and did a simple oil change, expecting that might help, but the issues persist.

Seeking Advice:

  • Test Methods: What are some effective ways to test for compression loss?
  • Repairs: Is it something I can tackle myself, or should I take it to a mechanic?
  • Preventative Measures: Are there any ways to prevent this from happening in the future?

Personal Stories:

If anyone has gone through this, I’d love to hear your experiences!

Thanks in advance for the help! Looking forward to your responses.

4 Likes
2

Lost compression can definitely lead to rough idling. You might also notice decreased power and strange sounds from the engine. It’s essential to check the spark plugs first; they can be a primary indicator of issues.

3

I’ve experienced that with my last car! It felt like driving with the handbrake on. Increased oil consumption is another big red flag to consider.

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4

You should also look out for blue smoke or a burning oil smell; these can indicate oil leaks or problems with your piston rings. I had a similar issue last summer and it spiraled quickly.

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5

That’s a good point! If you suspect compression loss, a compression test might help to pinpoint the issue. Has anyone tried that?

6

Absolutely! A compression test can give you a clear picture of what’s going on. If numbers are low on one cylinder, that’s where to start your investigation. It’s like detective work!

7

My car lost compression in the worst way. I was left stranded on the highway! But I learned that listening for backfiring can also be a symptom. Keep an ear out for that!

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8

Great tip! Sometimes a lively exhaust sound can signal problems. I think I might be dealing with compression loss now, too…

9

Don’t panic! It’s great that you’re catching signs early. Increased fuel consumption is another thing to monitor. The more you know, the better you can prepare for repairs.

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10

And don’t forget about the timing belt! If it’s off, it can cause compression issues as well. Just a thought – could be trouble, could be just a loose belt.

11

That’s true! A misaligned timing belt can wreak havoc. I’d recommend checking that as part of your diagnosis routine.

12

Let’s just hope it’s not something worse! Compression may sound scary but it’s often something manageable. Remember, laughter is the best mechanic!

13

Lost compression can be a tricky issue. One of the first things to check is the piston rings. Worn rings can cause significant loss and affect overall performance.

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14

Definitely, and don’t forget about the valve seals! If they’re leaking, that can lead to poor compression too.

15

A common scenario for lost compression is the head gasket failure. If coolant or oil is mixing, you might be facing this issue.

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16

That’s true! I experienced that once, and it was a major headache. Check for any symptoms of overheating too.

17

Another thing to consider is the age of the engine. Old engines with high mileage can naturally develop these issues over time.

18

Totally agree! It’s kind of like how our joints feel with age—things just wear down!

19

You should also check the spark plugs. Sometimes, if they’re fouled, they can indicate combustion problems linked to compression loss.

20

Good point! It’s like the engine’s way of whispering that something’s wrong. Anyone else had luck with compression testers?