Signs of turbo failure
Which symptoms point to a turbo problem, what they can mean and what to do. Remember: engine faults can cause similar signs — only a diagnostic gives an exact answer.
Blue or bluish smoke
What it can mean: oil is getting into the cylinders or exhaust — worn turbo seals or bearings, a blocked oil drain, high crankcase pressure.
What to do: check the oil level and don't drive for long — oil starvation will quickly destroy the turbo. Book a diagnostic.
Black smoke
What it can mean: the engine isn't getting enough air — the turbo isn't producing enough boost, there is a leak in the hoses or intercooler, or the variable geometry has a problem. A fuel system fault can also cause it.
What to do: check the hoses and clamps for leaks. If everything is intact, the turbo needs a diagnostic.
White smoke
What it can mean: often it's not the turbo but coolant getting into the cylinders. However, thick whitish smoke can also appear when a lot of oil gets in.
What to do: check the coolant level. Don't put off checking the engine and the turbo.
Whistling, whining, grinding
What it can mean: shaft play, wheels rubbing on the housing, rotor imbalance. A whistle can also come from a boost leak.
What to do: grinding or a metallic noise is a reason to stop: the wheel may break apart and the debris can get into the engine. Book a diagnostic.
Loss of power, hesitation
What it can mean: underboost — a worn turbo, carboned-up variable geometry, a faulty actuator, a hose leak or faulty sensors.
What to do: read the fault codes with a scanner. A diagnostic will show whether the turbo is to blame.
High oil consumption, oil in the intercooler
What it can mean: oil is escaping past the turbo seals — due to wear, a blocked oil drain or high crankcase pressure. A little oil mist in the hoses is normal even on a healthy car.
What to do: keep an eye on the oil level. Before fitting a new or rebuilt turbo, always flush the intercooler — see the installation rules.
Boost codes: P0299, P0234 and others
- P0299 — turbo underboost.
- P0234 — turbo overboost.
- P2563 — turbo boost control position sensor fault.
- P0045 — turbo boost control solenoid circuit fault.
What it can mean: sticking or incorrectly set variable geometry, a faulty actuator, leaks, faulty sensors or vacuum system.
What to do: don't just clear the code and keep driving in limp mode. The turbo, variable geometry and actuator need checking.
Does your turbo need a repair?
Book a diagnostic: we will give you the exact price before any repair starts.