Question 1

What does a turbo do?

Accepted Answer

When your car’s engine runs, it sucks air in through the air filter, which is then mixed with fuel and ignited, creating the power that drives the engine. This ignition process creates waste gases which escape through the exhaust system. A turbo uses these gases to spin a turbine (essentially, a propellor) and this turbine is then used to push more air into the engine than it would naturally suck in. As a result, your engine can burn more of the air-fuel mixture than it otherwise would, generating more power.

Question 2

What are the common problems with a turbo?

Accepted Answer

Common problems with turbo include cracks or leaks in the system, reduced pressure, poor lubrication which causes damage to bearings and sometimes, foreign objects like small stones which damage the blades of the turbo.

Question 3

What are common turbo fault symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Common turbo fault symptoms include blue-white smoke and reduced power when accelerating, reduced boost on the pressure gauge (if one's fitted) and, sometimes, a whining noise - like a dentist's drill - when accelerating.

Question 4

What is the cost for a turbo replacement?

Accepted Answer

A replacement turbo is a pricey item and replacement will typically cost over £1000. However individual components can often be repaired, which is much more cost-effective. A garage inspection will inform you of the next steps.

Question 5

What happens if my turbo breaks?

Accepted Answer

Turbo failure will cause one or more of the following symptoms: reduced engine power, blue/black smoke when accelerating, or a whining 'dentist's drill' noise when accelerating.