News

Of the most sought after yet most misunderstood parts of any car, the turbocharger must be on top of the list. If you do not know what a turbocharger (turbo) is, it is a device that utilizes turbines to pump the engine full of compressed air to maximize the engine's efficiency. With that said, the turbocharger is also one part of the car that is likely to run into problems.

If you have a turbocharger installed, you must know the signs of a problematic turbocharger to ensure that you get it fixed as soon as possible.

The boost gauge does not work

Many turbocharger installations come with a boost gauge that will help you track how much power you are receiving when the turbo is active. However, if you find that the indicator either does not display the proper readings or that the gauge does not respond at all, it could be either a problem with the turbo or the boost gauge itself. Either way, send your car in to have the turbocharger checked thoroughly.

The turbocharger makes an unusual sound

If you have been driving with a turbocharger for a while, you will know how it typically sounds when active. This means that the moment it makes weird noises, you will be able to notice it immediately. 

If you catch your turbocharger making unusual sounds when active, have it checked. If you hear a loud whining noise from the turbo, then you will absolutely have to send the car for a fix right away. There could be a problem with the turbine or something related to the turbo that could potentially damage other parts of your car.

The exhaust smokes blue or grey

Older cars will generally produce smoke the moment they start or as they run due to dirty filters and the like. However, if you notice smoke coming out only when you step on the pedal to accelerate or see a smoke plume when you start the car, it might be because your turbocharger has a problem.

Often, the cause of this smoke is due to a crack in the turbine that causes oil to leak into the exhaust. This fluid eventually gets heated and emitted as smoke. 

The engine warning light is on

If the engine warning lights light up, this could mean that something is wrong with your turbo. We say "could" because the engine's diagnostic system covers a wide range of problems. 

For that reason, when you do see the light go on, you will need to bring the car in for further analysis and testing to locate the source of the issue.

Conclusion

If you discover any of the problematic signs above, then you need to send your car to a mechanic and have it checked right away. Even if it is not the turbocharger's problem, it does not change the fact that there is something wrong with the car and that you need to have it fixed. Failure to do so can put you at risk of requiring a more expensive repair job as the problem goes bigger. More importantly, the problem can pose a danger to your safety as well as that of others on the road.

Are you looking to improve your diesel engine car's performance with turbochargers? Grab these performance-enhancing upgrades from us at US Diesel Parts today!