1999 Chrysler LHS compression

RAYDEB

MEMBER
1999 CHRYSLER LHS
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
182,000 MILES

Got a problem with my '99 Chrysler LHS with about 182,000 miles. Other than the car dying on me at a major intersection the week before (engine died, all panel lights went off, wouldn't turnover, had it towed to the dealer who replaced the battery) it has been running strong. No indication of any other problem. This has been my primary, daily use vehicle.

Went to drive the car in morning, started briefly once, stopped, engine would turn over but wouldn't start again. Had it towed the dealer again and after having it a few days, came back to me with the following comments:
"Vehicle had to be jump started. Cranks and wont start. See attached ro. Check engine light was on. Checked fuses and relays. Ok. Compression test: #1-80psi, #2-60, #3-95, #4-90, #5-80, #6-80. Removed timing cover for belt inspection. Belt and tensioner ok" Nothing more they could do other than a engine overhaul.

My thoughts: If the compression had been that low before being towing, it wouldn't have started easily, wouldn't have had much guts and wouldn't have run well. I am sensitive to my cars condition. Other than a problem the timing belt, what else would cause the compression on all cylinders to trop like that all at once?

3 Replies

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

A sudden loss of oil pressure due to a clogged screen or bad oil pump or drive is the only thing I can think of, however a low compression engine or a poorly lubricated cylinder wall due to this could cause a no start and drain a battery. Good luck, it'll be ok, you have gotten great life out of this 100,000 mile engine. Pieces of rubber fall down into the pan and get sucked up on to the oil pump screen often in the best maintained vehicles. Good you had 180,000 miles on it. May have had a leak.