Mechanical Inspection: Compression

2010 Mazda 5 Sport, 2.3 L, StandardSECTION Compression
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mazda Tribute, 2002 Mazda Protege5, 2002 Mazda Protege, 2002 Mazda Millenia, and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check engine mechanical condition with a compression gauge, vacuum gauge, or an engine analyzer. Ensure oil level and condition are okay. Ensure battery is fully charged. 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, 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
B2300, B3000 & B4000 (1) (1)
Miata (2) 146 (10.3) @ 300 209 (14.7) @ 300
Millenia (2)
2.3L 121 (8.5) @ 250 164 (11.5) @ 250
2.5L 132 (9.3) @ 300 189 (13.3) @ 300
MPV (1) (1)
Protege & Protege5 (2) 119 (8.4) @ 300 171 (12.0) @ 300
Tribute (1) (1)
626 (2)
2.0L 119 (8.4) @ 300 171 (12.0) @ 300
2.5L 141 (9.9) @ 250 202 (14.2) @ 250
(1) Lowest compression reading should be within 75 percent of highest compression reading.
(2) Difference between cylinders should not be more than 28 psi (2.0 kg/cm2 ).
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

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

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