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Mechanical Inspection: Compression

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 1992 Volkswagen Passat, 1992 Volkswagen Jetta, 1992 Volkswagen Golf, 1992 Volkswagen GTI, and 1992 Volkswagen Fox. 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. 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 SPECIFICATION

Application psi (kg/cm2 ) Ratio
Cabriolet 131-174 (9.0-12.0) 8.5:1
Corrado
1.8L 116-174 (8.0-12.0) 8.0:1
2.8L 160-189 (11.2-13.3) 10.0:1
Fox 131-174 (9.0-12.0) 9.0:1
Golf & GTI 131-174 (9.0-12.0) 10.0:1
Jetta
1.6L (Diesel) 406-493 (28.5-34.7) 23.0:1
1.8L 131-174 (9.0-12.0) 10.0:1
Jetta GLi 145-190 (10.0-13.0) 10.0:1
Passat 116-174 (8.0-12.0) 10.8:1