Alfa Romeo 
Turbochargers are becoming more commonplace as we move toward a more environmentally-conscious future. They are often found in modern vehicles because they improve the efficiency of cars and vans while decreasing their environmental impact.
Turbos force extra air into the combustion chamber which allows more fuel to be burned. However, just like any other automotive component, they need to be maintained regularly to function as optimally as possible. You must be able to notice any signs that your turbocharger needs some attention, as this can save you from costly repairs or bigger mechanical problems further down the road.
Here are 10 of the most common signs that your turbocharger might need some maintenance.
1. Loss of Power
One of the most noticeable signs of a failing turbocharger is a loss of power. If your vehicle is not accelerating as quickly as it used to, or if you feel a significant reduction in power, it could indicate an issue with the turbocharger. This loss of power can be due to a number of reasons, such as a damaged turbine or a problem with the turbo’s wastegate. The wastegate controls the flow of exhaust gases to the turbocharger, and if it malfunctions, it can prevent the turbo from generating the necessary boost pressure. Regularly monitoring your vehicle’s performance can help you detect these changes early.
2. Excessive Exhaust Smoke
If you notice excessive smoke coming from your exhaust, it could be a sign that your turbocharger is failing. Different colours of smoke can indicate different issues:
- Blue smoke: This suggests that oil is leaking into the combustion chamber, possibly due to a damaged turbo seal or worn-out piston rings. The burning oil produces a distinctive blue smoke, which is a clear indication that something is amiss.
- Black smoke: This could indicate that the engine is receiving too much fuel and not enough air, often a sign of a failing turbo. Black smoke is typically the result of incomplete combustion, which can occur if the turbocharger is not supplying sufficient air to the engine.
- White smoke: This can be a sign of coolant entering the combustion chamber, which could be due to a cracked turbo housing or a blown head gasket. White smoke is usually associated with a sweet smell, indicative of burning coolant.
3. Turbo Whine and Other Unusual Noises
Turbochargers generally produce a distinct whistling sound when they are working correctly. However, if you start hearing unusual noises such as whining, grinding, or rattling, it could indicate a problem. These sounds might be due to worn-out bearings or a damaged turbine. A high-pitched whining noise, often referred to as “turbo whine,” can be a sign of a failing turbo bearing, while grinding or rattling noises may indicate that the turbo’s internal components are damaged.
4. Check Engine Light
The check engine light on your dashboard is a catch-all warning system for various engine issues, including problems with the turbocharger. If this light comes on, it’s essential to get your vehicle checked by a professional. Diagnostic tools can help pinpoint the exact cause, and if the turbocharger is at fault, prompt maintenance can prevent further damage. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe issues and expensive repairs down the line.
5. Increased Oil Consumption
Turbochargers rely on engine oil for lubrication and cooling. If you notice that your vehicle is consuming more oil than usual, it could be a sign that the turbocharger is leaking oil. This can lead to insufficient lubrication, causing further damage to the turbo and the engine. Regularly checking your oil levels and looking for signs of leaks can help you catch this issue early. Oil leaks can occur in various parts of the turbo system, including the oil supply line, return line, and seals.
6. Poor Acceleration
A noticeable decline in acceleration can indicate a problem with your turbocharger. If your car feels sluggish or unresponsive when you press the accelerator, it might be due to issues such as a stuck wastegate or a failing turbine. Addressing these problems early can restore your vehicle’s performance. Poor acceleration can also be caused by clogged or damaged air filters, which restrict airflow to the turbocharger, reducing its efficiency.
7. Boost Gauge Issues
If your vehicle is equipped with a boost gauge, it can be a useful tool for monitoring turbocharger performance. A boost gauge measures the amount of boost pressure generated by the turbo. If you notice unusual readings or significant fluctuations, it could indicate a problem. Consistently low boost pressure suggests that the turbo is not working efficiently. Conversely, excessively high boost pressure can indicate that the wastegate is not opening properly, which can lead to engine damage.
8. Oily Deposits
Inspecting the turbocharger and the surrounding areas for oily deposits can help identify potential issues. Oil leaks around the turbocharger, intercooler, or piping indicate that the turbo seals might be failing. This not only affects the turbo’s performance but can also lead to contamination of the air intake system. Oily deposits can reduce the efficiency of the intercooler and clog the air intake, leading to reduced engine performance and increased emissions.
9. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
A drop in fuel efficiency can be another sign of turbocharger issues. When the turbocharger is not functioning correctly, the engine may have to work harder, consuming more fuel. If you notice that you’re filling up your tank more often than usual, it’s worth having your turbocharger checked. Decreased fuel efficiency can result from various factors, including reduced boost pressure, clogged air filters, and leaking turbo seals (these are unlike conventional oil seals and are instead similar to piston rings).
10. Engine Management Warning
Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated engine management systems that monitor various engine parameters. If there’s an issue with the turbocharger, the engine management system may trigger a warning. This warning can appear on the dashboard or as a message on the vehicle’s display screen, advising you to seek maintenance. Ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe problems and potential engine failure.
Get In Touch
While they increase the efficiency and power of your vehicle, turbochargers need to be properly maintained, just like any other car component. If you notice any of the above signs you should get in touch with us here at Essex Turbos to start sourcing a replacement or to explore refurbishing options.
To find out more about turbo maintenance or to find the perfect turbo for your vehicle, simply get in touch today.