Turbochargers are the perfect solution to speed and performance issues in many vehicles. It’s only proper to have one installed if you are looking for better engine output and power in your car. However, a turbocharger failure can be a difficult thing to experience as it reduces your vehicle’s potential.
A turbo failure also brings unnecessary expenses. This is why it is important to know the signs of fault in your car so you can save some repair costs. We have provided this guide to help you detect the signs of failure and know how to handle it before serious damage is done.
How to Tell if Your Car’s Turbocharger is Faulty
The following signs can help you identify problems with your car’s turbocharger:
1. Excessive Exhaust Smoke
If you notice blue-gray smoke from your car’s exhaust, then it could indicate that its turbocharger is faulty. This is usually caused by an oil leak in a damaged part of the turbocharger, when this oil leaks to the exhaust system, the effect of the burning oil leads to the production of heavy smoke. You may notice that it gets worse at higher speeds due to an increased turbo need.
2. “Check Engine” Light Comes On
Another way to detect a faulty turbocharger is the “check engine” light. If this light comes on your dashboard, it could be due to various reasons, one of which is a faulty turbocharger. Since the turbo is directly linked to the engine and works to increase engine function, once it has a fault, the engine could also be affected. Any turbo problem can trigger the engine’s warning light to come on.
3. Reduced Engine Performance
If you notice that your engine’s function is declining, you could see issues like difficulty in starting the engine, engine misfiring, stuttering, or lower speeds, then your car’s turbo could be at fault. The engine relies on the turbocharger to reach higher speeds faster. When this begins to become a problem, you should have your car’s turbo inspected.
4. Loud Engine Noises
If you hear unusual, loud noises coming from your car’s engine bay, it could point to a fault with the turbocharger. You could hear whining sounds that worsen or become louder over time, showing that some part of the turbocharger is faulty. You should have your mechanic check the engine and the turbocharger to fix this issue.
5. Reduced Fuel Economy
Another way to detect a turbocharger failure in your car is if you notice that you now use more fuel than usual even when covering the same distance, you are used to. The turbocharger works by increasing air intake into the system to aid the air-fuel mixture that promotes combustion. However, when the turbo fails, the air-fuel mixture is disrupted, leading to a decreased fuel economy.
If you notice any of these signs in your turbocharger, there is a chance that you may need to replace the turbo in the car. However, you cannot do this blindly.
- Ensure that you check for underlying issues in the turbocharger before replacement. Look for broken gaskets, seals, or any other sign of damage, and ensure that they are fixed. If one of the engine components is broken, for example, a turbo replacement may not fix the issue.
- Also, make sure that you only use quality materials for replacement. Get original parts to reduce the risk of a reoccurrence or further damage to the engine.
- You also need our trusted mechanic to aid with your replacement plan. Our mechanic can easily identify substandard products and they also offer better services with fewer complications.
The Best Auto Service Shop in Green Bay for Your Vehicle’s Turbocharger
Turbocharger issues, if not properly 
addressed, can quickly become a disaster for your engine and the entire car system. It is advisable to get a trusted mechanic to have a look at your car once you see any sign of trouble.
Huron Automotive is a top choice if you are looking for the best Automobile shop for maintenance and repair services. We have our shop in Green Bay, WI and for over 10 years, we have provided drivers in the area exceptional services from oil changes to brake repairs. Bring your car down today and we can help you handle its turbo problems.