Pontiac Repair: Engine compression?, aluminum plate, underneith

Question
I have a 1999 Grand Am SE 2.4l, and I was curious, is there any way to use a compression gague to test the compression? SInce the park plugs are all underneith that plate there, I was wondering if I had to do anything special?

Also, I have a Service Engine Soon light thats on. I don't notice any problems with how my car runs, but there must be something that tripped the light. I know this doesn't help you diagnosis what may be wrong, but maybe it's a common problem in Grand Ams. Thank you very much

Answer
Hi
For the compressionm, all is needed is to remove the coil cover (the aluminum plate). Then it is just as compression test with any other engine.
Second part is hard to answer. There is SO many things that can illuminate the SES I would hate to venture a guess.
Alot of shops and parts stores offer free diagnostic scans.
If you have it scanned, and wish to follow post back, I'll be happy to assist you further.
Good Luck]
Pawl