Adding a turbo to a vehicle’s engine is a highly effective way of massively increasing its power. A turbocharger increases the amount of air allowed into the engine’s cylinders, and when combined with extra fuel, means that more power can be generated.
The turbocharger is a component comprising a turbine and an air compressor that harnesses waste exhaust gases produced by engines. By forcing more air into the cylinders, it helps the engine produce more power.
An engine’s exhaust manifold is bolted to the turbocharger. The exhaust from the cylinders spins the turbine, similar to a gas turbine engine. Intake manifold and air filter are connected by a shaft to the turbine.
Causes for Turbo Failures
The reliability of turbochargers is excellent. The most common cause of blown turbos is engine problems.
Lubrication: Engine oil protects moving parts from corrosion, lubricates them, and keeps them cool while in use. The turbocharger must also be supplied with clean, quality oil on a regular basis. Insufficient oil or the wrong grade of oil can cause contaminants to build up in the engine (oil contaminants), causing extreme damage to the turbocharger.
Oil will leak into the exhaust system if the seals between the compressor and the engine become worn or cracked. Due to this, the turbo has to work harder to increase air pressure. By doing so, the turbo will be less efficient and will deliver less boost.
A turbocharger consists of two components- the compressor at the front and the turbine at the back. Foreign objects such as dust particles, dirt, leaves, and small stones can sometimes enter the turbo. The turbine of the turbo, the air filter, and the engine are often damaged by these particles.
Symptoms Of Turbo Failure
If your vehicle is not accelerating as well as it used to or is having trouble reaching/maintaining high speeds, you may have a turbo failure.
Whining engine – The turbocharger muffles the sound of air intake, making your engine quieter. In contrast, a loud, whining noise is a sign that the turbo is failing.
Oil leaks produce blue/grey smoke when they burn off in the exhaust system. The reason for this is that the seals have broken.
It is possible to drive with a blown turbocharger, but engine failure isn’t far behind. Only drive on if it’s necessary. Any of these symptoms can be detected by your Audi and VW specialists at V.A.G Spec Centre.
Any of our highly trained , Qualified Technicians at the following branches can give expert advice on turbo failures.
VAGspec Randburg: VagSpec Centre Randburg – Out of warranty Vw, Audi and Seat auto service shop (vagspecrandburg.co.za)
VAGspec Menlyn: VAG Spec Menlyn – Out of warranty Vw, Mercedes, Audi, BMW and SEAT specialists
VAGspec Capetown: VAG Spec Centre Cape Town – Out of warranty Vw, Audi and Seat auto service shop (vagspecct.co.za)
VAGspec Zeerust: VAG Spec Centre Zeerust – Out of warranty Vw, Audi and Seat auto service shop (vagspeczeerust.co.za)
