What tool is commonly used to check engine compression?

A compression gauge is the tool that is specifically designed to measure the compression pressure within an engine's cylinders. This tool is crucial for evaluating the health of an engine, as it helps determine if all cylinders are operating efficiently and within the manufacturer's specified compression ranges. By measuring the pressure during the compression stroke, a technician can identify issues such as worn piston rings, leaking valves, or cylinder head gasket failures.

In contrast, a torque wrench is used for tightening fasteners to a specified torque, ensuring that components are secured properly. A multimeter is typically utilized for electrical diagnostics, measuring voltage, current, and resistance in various automotive systems, while a vacuum gauge measures the vacuum in the intake manifold, which provides insights into engine performance and can indicate issues like intake leaks or exhaust restrictions. Each of these tools serves a distinct purpose that does not relate directly to assessing cylinder compression, making the compression gauge the appropriate choice for this task.