Mechanical Inspection: Compression
Start engine and warm to normal operating temperature. Turn ignition off. Release fuel pressure. See FUEL SYSTEM . On Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) equipped models, remove all ignition coils. On all other models, disconnect distributor 2-pin harness connector (for ignition coil). On all models, remove all spark plugs. Depress accelerator pedal fully to hold throttle valve wide open. Attach compression tester to cylinder No. 1. Crank engine at specified speed and record highest gauge indication. See appropriate COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS table. Repeat measurement for each cylinder.
4-CYLINDER COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | Specification | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Compression Pressure | |||
| Altima, Frontier & Xterra | 178 psi (1226 kPa) | ||
| Sentra | |||
| 1.8L | 192 psi (1324 kPa) | ||
| 2.0L | 178 psi (1226 kPa) | ||
| Minimum Compression Pressure | |||
| Altima, Frontier & Xterra | 149 psi (1030 kPa) | ||
| Sentra | |||
| 1.8L | 168 psi (1157 kPa) | ||
| 2.0L | 149 psi (1030 kPa) | ||
| Maximum Variation Between Cylinders | |||
| All Models | 14 psi (98 kPa) | ||
V6 COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | Specification | |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Compression Pressure | ||
| Frontier, Pathfinder, Quest & Xterra | 173 psi (1196 kPa) | |
| Maxima | 185 psi (1275 kPa) | |
| Minimum Compression Pressure | ||
| Frontier, Pathfinder, Quest & Xterra | 128 psi (883 kPa) | |
| Maxima | 142 psi (981 kPa) | |
| Maximum Variation Between Cylinders | ||
| All Models | 14 psi (98 kPa) | |