Signs Your Turbo Is Failing

Loss of power and limp mode

A turbo forces extra air into the engine to give it more power. When it is not working properly, the car feels flat and slow, especially pulling away or overtaking. Many cars will go into limp mode and show a warning light to protect the engine.

The power loss can come and go at first, then get steadily worse.

Whistling, whining or siren noises

A turbo makes a faint whistle when it is working normally. A louder whine or a siren-like noise that rises with the revs can mean worn bearings inside the turbo.

A loud whoosh or hiss under acceleration is often a split boost hose or loose clip rather than the turbo itself, which is a much cheaper fix.

Smoke and oil use

Blue or grey smoke from the exhaust, and the engine using more oil than normal, can mean oil is getting past worn seals in the turbo and being burned.

Keep an eye on the oil level. Running low on oil will damage the turbo and the engine.

What kills turbos

Most turbo failures come down to oil. A turbo spins extremely fast and relies on a constant supply of clean oil. Overdue oil changes, the wrong oil, and blocked oil feed pipes all starve it.

Driving hard before the engine is warm, or switching off straight after a long fast run, also shortens its life. If a turbo fails because of an oil feed problem and that is not fixed, a new turbo can fail the same way.

Diagnose before replacing

Boost leaks, sticking actuators, sensors and EGR faults can all feel like a failed turbo. At ER Automotive in Smethwick we check boost pressure and fault codes, then replace the turbo only when it is the real problem, and check the oil feed when we do. Call 0121 461 6097 or book online.