mechanics.trade
Turbocharger repair and replacement
A turbocharger uses exhaust gas to drive a compressor that pushes more air into the engine.
What turbo repair means
It spins extremely fast and relies on a clean oil supply. Most failures trace back to oil: a blocked feed pipe, long oil intervals, or debris from elsewhere in the engine.
What the job covers
- Turbo failure diagnosis and boost testing
- Turbocharger replacement and reconditioning
- Variable-vane actuator faults
- Oil-feed pipe replacement
- Intercooler and boost-pipe leaks
When you might need it
- A loss of power, often with the car dropping into a reduced power mode.
- Blue smoke from the exhaust, which is oil getting past the seals.
- A siren-like whine that rises with boost.
What it costs, and what changes the price
Typically £600 to £1,800.
- New, reconditioned or repaired. A rebuild of your own unit is often the middle option.
- The oil feed pipe is usually replaced at the same time, because fitting a new turbo to a blocked feed destroys it.
- Variable vane actuators can sometimes be replaced on their own.
How long it takes
Most cars are a day, some longer where access is tight.
Common questions
Why did my turbo fail?
Usually oil supply. A good garage will find out why before fitting a new one, because otherwise the replacement goes the same way.
Can a turbo be repaired rather than replaced?
Often yes. Specialist rebuilders replace the core and rebalance it, which costs less than a new unit.
Is blue smoke always the turbo?
No, it can be valve stem seals or piston rings. It does mean oil is being burnt, and it is worth finding out where from.