The check engine light should have a number, something P-0301. What
code(s) do you have?

Spark misses may be caused by a bad spark plug wire or plugs among
other things (EGR system). In this case you already have new plugs and
maybe should also check/replace wires if not already (but they should
still be good at 117K miles).

Low compression is most likely piston ring wear or valve sealing
problem. It may be as simple as adjusting valve clearances but can get
as involved as replacing piston rings for example.

Besides the simple oil trick mentioned (if squirting oil seals then
you know it's the piston rings), you may want to consider a "leak-down
test".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leak-down_tester



On Jul 30, 3:44*pm, Amanda <amanda.sch...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Hi all,
> The engine light on my 2002 honda accord just went on. I took it to
> the shop they replaced the spark plug but also said the compression
> was low on cylinder 1. They said it was at 100lbs and should be around
> 150 lbs. They said the check engine light might come back on for that.
> After two starts, the check engine light is back on. How concerned
> should I be? It misses while idle and when it goes into the 65-70 mph
> range. Whats the problem? Maybe a head gasket issue? Is it safe to
> drive? How much should it cost to get fixed.. I've also noticed
> slightly worse gas milage. Should that be a concern? The missing
> started after my last oil change, and 3 weeks later, the check engine
> light came on. Did the person who did my oil change potentially mess
> up my car?