Turbo Fault Diagnosis

Low power, excessive noise or smoke, are often blamed on the turbo. Yet turbochargers are extremely reliable – only 1% of so-called turbo failures are due to a fault with the turbo itself.

The turbocharger is an integral part of the engine’s air, fuel, cooling and oil systems, so any problem in these systems will have an effect on the turbo. Even if a diagnostic fault code points to the turbo, it may simply be highlighting the result, not the cause. Before you fit a replacement, it’s essential to find out what caused the turbo to fail – or you may just repeat the problem.

Check hoses

A blocked filter or intercooler, obstructions, leaks or splits in any hoses or pipes, or even using non-OE spec parts, can lead to turbo failure. For example, a split air intake hose can make the turbo over-rev and overboost.

Check specification

Is the engine modified or worn out with low compression? If the turbo isn’t receiving the amount of energy it was designed for, it won’t perform properly or may fail prematurely. Even simply overfilling the engine oil can over-pressurise the system and damage the turbo – or suggest there’s a turbo problem.

Check the oil

In fact, over 90% of turbo failures are oil related: either oil starvation or contamination. So examine this area first when you’re searching for a fault. Remember it’s vital to change the oil, and replace the oil and air filters, when you fit the new turbo.

When a turbo stops working, it seems obvious it should take the blame. But in nearly every instance, the reason for the failure almost certainly lies elsewhere.

Whether it’s a brand new unit or Original Manufacturer Remanufactured, every turbo supplied by BTN is covered by a two year warranty against manufacturing defects. And for the first 12 months, you’re covered with BTN’S famous No Quibble warranty for all commercial diesel turbos.

You can find more information on the BTN Turbo website: www.btnturbo.com. All parts can be purchased at competitive rates from your local UAN Affiliate, click here to find your local part distributor.