Engine lights

2009 PONTIAC VIBE
128,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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PATOCHAN
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Computerized engine analysis check done after VSC OFF, check engine lamp, and slip lamp not going off on car listed above. The results found 2 plugs were loose cylinder 3 and 4. Shop tightened them. Results also said engine has low compression on all cylinders. #1 65 psi #2 62 #3 45 #4 55.

What do you think is the issue?
Dec 4, 2019 at 6:39 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

What are the codes?

From the looks of the compression, you may have a timing issue between the cam and the crank.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/the-reasons-for-low-compression

What did the shop tell you?
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Dec 4, 2019 at 7:00 AM
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PATOCHAN
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I did not get the codes.
The shop was Goodyear and they just did the diagnostic and tightened the 2 plugs, but did not say anything else.
What is my next best recourse?
Thanks!
Dec 4, 2019 at 2:13 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Is the check engine light still on.

You need someone who will do a proper diagnostic and tell you the issues

I think you need a timing chain

Roy
Dec 4, 2019 at 2:22 PM
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PATOCHAN
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After a more comprehensive diagnosis I was told it was blown head gasket and would cost $3,000.00 to $3,600.00 to fix. I spent $6,000.00 on it 1.5 years ago. Probably better to cut my losses?
Dec 9, 2019 at 12:05 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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How did they determine the head gasket is the issue.

Roy
Dec 9, 2019 at 12:23 PM
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PATOCHAN
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They hooked up a machine which emitted green smoke that they said meant the head gasket was bad.
Dec 9, 2019 at 1:20 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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The proper way to test is to do a leak down test. That is where they remove the plugs and inject air into each cylinder one at a time. Then they look for any movement in the cooling system with the air injected. That will confirm.

Roy
Dec 9, 2019 at 1:43 PM