What should be performed if a dry compression test indicates low compression?

When a dry compression test reveals low compression readings, performing a wet compression test is the appropriate next step. This test involves adding a small amount of oil into the cylinders and then re-testing the compression. The purpose of the wet compression test is to help determine whether the low compression is due to worn piston rings or damaged valves.

If the compression improves significantly after adding oil, it suggests that the piston rings are likely the cause of the low compression. Conversely, if there is little to no change, the issue may be related to the valves or other components of the engine. The wet compression test thus serves as a diagnostic tool to pinpoint the source of the problem more effectively.

Conducting a visual inspection might provide some useful information, but it does not quantify the engine's condition as effectively as a wet compression test. Immediate engine replacement is not warranted based solely on low compression readings; further diagnosis is necessary. A cylinder leakage test is indeed valuable for assessing specific areas of leakage but is typically performed after the wet compression test in a systematic troubleshooting approach. Therefore, the wet compression test is the logical and methodical next step following low compression results.