Ensure battery is fully charged. Engine oil temperature should be a minimum of 86°F (30°C).
Turn ignition off. Remove engine cover. See Fig 1 . Remove intake hose between Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor (G70) and throttle valve control module (J338).

Fig 1: Removing Engine Cover (Engine Code AXK)
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.
Remove radiator grille. Remove right and left securing bolts for lock carrier. See Figure . Tilt lock carrier with radiator toward the front.
Unclip cover for ignition coils/power output stage. Disconnect harness connectors from ignition coils/power output stage See Fig 2 .

Fig 2: Locating Ignition Coil/Power Output Stage Harness Connectors (Engine Code AXK)
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.
When performing compression check, throttle valve should be open. Check engine mechanical condition with a compression gauge and remote starter to crank engine. See COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS table.

COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS

Application

⁽¹⁾ Specification

Normal Compression Pressure

2.8L VR6 ⁽²⁾

145-189 psi (10.0-13.0 bar)

Minimum Compression Pressure

2.8L VR6

109 psi (7.5 bar)

Maximum Variation Between Cylinders

2.8L VR6

44 psi (3.0 bar)

⁽¹⁾	Operate starter until tester shows no further increase.

⁽²⁾	Unplug ignition coils before testing compression. See ⁽²⁾ and Fig 2 .

When to See a Mechanic

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

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

Compression (2.8L VR6, Engine Code AXK)