Turbocharger defective: the most important information

If the turbocharger is defective, you should bring your car to the workshop in good time for repair. Otherwise there is a risk of engine damage, which will drive up the costs even further. In this article, we show you which signs indicate a defect in this vehicle part.

Detect a defective turbocharger - there are these signs

You cannot really diagnose a defect in the turbocharger yourself. If you notice certain signs, you should consult a specialist.

• A turbocharger does not suddenly break, a defect does not suddenly become apparent. Rather, the noises under the hood increase the longer you drive with a defective turbocharger. By the way, we explain in detail how a turbocharger works in another article.
• Clearly audible clacking noises from the engine compartment and howling of the engine are signs of a defect.
• If there is a defect in the turbocharger, the engine performance drops. For example, you notice that the car accelerates more slowly.
• In addition, light to bluish smoke indicates a defect. If you step off the gas, an unpleasant smell will form.
• A clear indication of a defect is a rapidly increasing boost pressure of the turbocharger, while at the same time the engine performance drops. Then you can assume that the turbocharger is broken.
• You can see such an increase in boost pressure if the turbocharger fails completely while driving, but works again after restarting the car.
• Often there are several symptoms at the same time. Sometimes you don't notice anything for a long time, although the turbocharger may already be leaking.

Suspected defect in the turbocharger: take your car for repair

You shouldn't wait until the turbocharger is finally broken.

• If you suspect that something is wrong with your turbocharger, you should drive to a workshop as soon as possible.
• If you wait too long, individual components can tear off the turbocharger. These can also penetrate the combustion chamber and cause engine damage.
• In the worst case, you not only have to have the turbocharger replaced, but also the engine.
• You are generally on the safe side if you keep to the inspection dates for your car. The workshop usually notices whether there is a defect in the turbocharger and notifies you in good time.