A turbocharger is one of the most important accessories for your vehicle. It is a compressor that is installed on the exhaust side of the vehicle. Its purpose is to enhance the engine horsepower. As the engine’s rpm increases, the turbocharger drives air into the engine, thereby increasing the power.
A turbocharger can increase the power of your engine by up to 35%. While turbochargers are designed to stand the test of time, they can still develop some issues after a while. Below are some common symptoms of a failing turbocharger.
Too Much Exhaust Smoke
If the casing of your turbocharger cracks or if some internal seals are worn out, it could cause the oil to leak into your exhaust. When this leaked oil burns, it will result in a characteristic blue or grey smoke. This smoke is more visible when the turbo is running. Hence, if you notice excessive smoke when revving the engine, chances are your turbo is faulty.
Loss of Power
Lack of overall power is another common symptom of a bad turbocharger. Your vehicle may not accelerate as quickly as expected or generate the expected amount of power while running. So, if you notice that your vehicle is sluggish and doesn’t reach its maximum speeds as quickly, it could be a sign of a failing turbocharger.
Increased Oil Consumption
If you notice that your car is using more oil than usual, it could be an indication that your turbocharger is leaking oil into the manifold. It can eventually lead to the turbo failing.
Loud Siren Noise
Turbocharged vehicles are known to make pleasant noises, such as a blow off valve noise. However, some noises can be irritating. If your car is producing a sound like that of a police siren, and the noise keeps getting louder, it could be a sign of a faulty turbo. It usually is the result of a loose pipe or malfunctioning blades in the turbo.
Check Engine Warning Lights
Most of today’s cars have computer systems that are capable of detecting turbo faults and triggering the check engine light. However, check engine lights cover various other issues. So, it’s advisable to do some further diagnostic tests to find out what exactly is ailing your engine.
The Boost Gauge
If your car comes with a boost gauge or you have installed an aftermarket one, then you have an excellent way of finding out how well your turbocharger is functioning. If you notice a drop in the boost level, it is a sign that the performance of your turbocharger is compromised.
A drop could be a result of various turbo faults. So, you should have your turbocharger checked by a professional as soon as possible.
These are the most common signs of a failing turbocharger. If you notice any of them, don’t hesitate to consult with a reputable turbocharger professional like Taylor Diesel. They have decades of experience working with a wide range of turbochargers. Taylor Diesel offers professional, topnotch, and competitively-priced turbocharger diagnosis, repairs, and replacements.
