Kia Sorento XM 2011-2023 Repair Manual
Compression Pressure Test
In this manual: Kia Sorento XM 2011-2023 Repair Manual
9steps
~54min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 9
- Warm up and stop the engine. Allow the engine to warm up to normal operating temperature.
- Disconnect the injector extension connector (A) and the ignition coil connectors (B).

- Remove the ignition coils (A).

- Remove the spark plugs. Using a 16 mm spark plug socket, remove the 4 spark plugs.
- Check the compression pressure in the cylinder.
- Insert the compression gauge into the spark plug hole.

- Fully open the throttle valve.
- While cranking the engine, measure the compression pressure.
- Repeat steps (1) through (3) for each cylinder.Compression pressure: 1324 kPa (13.5 kgf/cm², 192 psi) / 200–250 rpm
Minimum pressure: 1177 kPa (12.0 kgf/cm², 171 psi)
Difference between cylinders: 100 kPa (1.0 kgf/cm², 15 psi) or less - If compression in one or more cylinders is low, add a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder through the spark plug hole, and repeat steps (1) through (3) for the cylinders with low compression.
A. If adding oil improves compression, the piston rings and/or cylinder bore are likely worn or damaged. B. If the pressure remains low, a valve may be stuck or improperly seated, or there may be a leak past the cylinder head gasket.
- Insert the compression gauge into the spark plug hole.
- Reinstall the spark plugs.
- Install the ignition coils.
- Connect the injector extension connector and the ignition coil connectors.
- Some DTCs may remain after the inspection test and may need to be cleared manually using GDS.
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