Common Turbocharger Problems and Malfunctions
Many modern engines use
turbochargers to increase power and/or increase efficiency. turbo,
or a turbine-driven forced induction device that operates by supplying additional air to
your engine cylinders to increase power by burning more fuel
efficiently.
Although usually long
and reliable component, there are a few common turbo problems that can lead to
everything from reduced performance to engine destruction.
Signs of a bad turbo
Paying close attention to how
Your engine is running and performing regular maintenance and checks.
the smart way to stay up to date with engine maintenance and preventive care. Any
a noticeable change in engine performance or sound means something has changed
and needs to be investigated. If you notice signs of a turbocharger malfunction,
such as oil leak or sound change… it is very important to check this
As soon as possible. You should also be aware of normal boost pressure.
engine running at ... and investigate any significant pressure change or cause
check engine light (CEL) or malfunction indicator light (MIL).
Also follow
The following are indicators of common turbo problems:
– Acceleration reduction: s
the turbocharger is responsible for providing extra power to your engine, one
one of the easiest ways to recognize that they are failing is when you notice a lack of
acceleration both when exiting the straight line and over the entire speed range.
– Increased oil burning: bad
the turbo tends to burn (or leak) oil faster. Keep track of how often
you need to add more oil and watch for leaks and signs of blockage and
deposits.
– Smoke: Smell and sight
the smoke coming from the exhaust pipe tells a story... On first start
engine, white smoke is unburned fuel - until the engine warms up and the turbo
“at speed” is fine.
As the engine warms up, blue
smoke is never a good sign, blue smoke indicates the presence of engine oil (bad
rings, valve seals, or a serious turbo seal problem).
Black smoke is unburnt fuel.
this is in vain… this happens when there is not enough boost air to burn the fuel
completely - this may be a worn or faulty turbine, leaks or blockage
piping or intercooler/aftercooler.
– Excessive noise: unusual
noises coming from your engine are never good. But if you hear a loud whine
sound, this may be due to reduced air flow or lubrication of the turbo block.
Reasons for a common turbocharger
Refusals
Turbo problems caused
various factors such as lack of lubrication, oil contamination, use
going beyond standard specifications and regular wear. Following
Here are some common turbo problems and faults:
– Housing cracked and/or worn
seals allow air to escape and cause the turbocharger to work harder and wear out
down faster.
– Accumulation of carbon deposits
and contaminants passing through the system can damage the inside of the engine.
Components.
- Presence of foreign
objects such as dust or debris entering the turbine or compressor casing may
cause damage to the compressor impeller or nozzle assembly. (Some turbines spin more
than 300,000 rpm… at that speed it doesn’t take long to destroy a turbine or
compressor wheel.)
– Leaks in the air intake
the system puts more stress on the turbocharger as it works to compensate
lack of air.
– Blocked or partially blocked
diesel particulate filters prevent the free passage of exhaust gases through
systems causing various problems. The turbine rotates as a result
expansion of hot air from combustion…when that air is restricted, the turbo cannot
get optimal speed, so power is low and black smoke
present… in extreme cases, the side of the turbine (hot) can become
much hotter than designed and the seals become brittle and fail, resulting in
everything from leaks to possible engine overclocking that can overclock and
destroy yourself.
