A vehicle would not run without a complete engine. If one part goes missing or damaged, the whole vehicle system will undoubtedly be affected. This is the reason why you have to maintain your vehicle’s engine properly. But before knowing how to take care of it properly, you must know its parts and how they work. In this article, you will find more about turbocharger diesel engines.

What is a Turbo Charger, and How does it Work?

For the engine to get more power, fuel should be burned quickly. Getting the fuel is easy. However, to convert and make the fuel more potent for the engine to run smoothly, it needs air. But the air a vehicle’s cylinder can get in the machine is limited due to its size or displacement.

Historically, engine makers’ only choice whenever they want or need more air, they would have to get a much bigger cylinder. This caused problems because the more extensive the cylinder, the heavier and more prominent the engine would get. Often, engines with such big cylinders rev up slowly. But in 1905, Swiss inventor Alfred Büchi came up with an idea and introduced Turbo. Büchi used the exhaust gasses to power up a compressor. This allowed the compressor to feed more and denser air into the combustion chamber. The additional air could then help in burning the fuel faster. Turbo was then adopted by the aeronautical industry quickly.

A turbo or turbocharger is an integral part of your vehicle. The primary function of the turbocharger in a diesel engine is to improve your vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance. This device is made up of two halves joined in one by a shaft. Both halves have turbines in them that spins quickly. Hot exhaust gasses allow the one turbine to spin while letting the other turbine suck more air in. The air is then compressed, which will then provide extra power for your engine.

As mentioned above, Turbo helps in allowing more power and efficiency for your vehicle. But aside from creating a much more powerful and efficient fuel system, the Turbo also helps minimize exhaust waste released from your truck that could add to the pollution. However, just like any part of your vehicle’s engine, your Turbo might get damaged even before you know it. To help you know if your turbocharger is damaged, here are ten hidden signs you must look out for.

1. Poor Acceleration

The primary function of the Turbo is to give your engine the extra power it needs. So if you get a delayed response from your car as you step on the gas pedal, or it does not match up the speed you have been accustomed to, this might mean there is a problem with your Turbo. When this happens, make sure to have a mechanic check and change your Turbo.

2. Increased Fuel Consumption

The Turbo is placed in your engine to function. This means refilling your gas tank more often than before. Or a noticeable drop in your vehicle’s mileage might be a clear indication of a damaged turbo. If you have detected problems, make sure to have your mechanic check them immediately.

3. Excessive Exhaust Smoke

The Turbo mainly functions to help your engine create a more robust and efficient performance. Turbo also helps reduce harmful emissions, but a faulty turbo causes excessive smoke emission.

4. Black Exhaust Smoke

Some countries have strict laws concerning smoke-belching. Smoke-belching is the forceful expulsion of thick and heavy smoke from a vehicle’s exhaust. This smoke does not only reduce the visibility of other trucks, but this is also very much harmful to the environment. Smoke-belching can be caused by several factors such as a burnt engine, clogged air filter, obstructed air intake duct to the turbo compressor, or a defect on the engine’s fuel injectors. It could be any of these reasons; nevertheless, a cloud of colored smoke is never a good sign.

5. Damaged Turbo Bearings

A damaged turbo bearing is a result of poor driving. Driving is not just about being excellent in following traffic rules; it is also about knowing how to take care of your vehicle. Turbo needs time to cool off before turning the engine off, especially after driving at high speed. If you notice that your vehicle’s not running as smoothly and efficiently as before, you have to have it checked immediately. And remember to allow your engine to have an idle time before shutting it off.

6. Low Oil Levels

Oil is vital for the turbocharger’s lubrication. If your vehicle shows symptoms of oil levels, this might cause a problem in the turbocharger. Low oil levels can reduce oil pressure, and reduced oil pressure makes it more difficult for the oil to move around the engine’s parts, eventually causing friction and damage to the turbocharger.

7. Siren Noise

If you hear a loud and siren sound coming from your vehicle’s engine, then it is high time to visit your mechanic and have your Turbo checked. A loud and siren-sounding noise typically happens when your Turbo is damaged. The louder the sound is, the worse the problem could be.

8. Air Pressure Issues

Problems in air pressure usually occur when the turbocharger overworks because of leaks. The turbocharger’s primary function is to gather enough air to help your engine work properly. If there are leaks in the air systems of your diesel engine, the turbocharger will have to work harder to produce more air pressure. This increase in workload will cause problems with the turbocharger.

9. Ruptured Pipes and Intercoolers

If your vehicle has any ruptured oil feed pipe, breather hose, boost pipe, or a failing intercooler, take it to the mechanic right away. This could be a sign that your Turbo might be damaged as well. These factors hinder the turbocharger from performing well and could, later on, impact its longevity. When you have these components inspected, make sure you will have your turbochargers checked as well.

10. Poor Lubrication

Throughout the whole article, the importance of oil for turbochargers has been emphasized. And with this in mind, not changing your oil regularly can lead to poor oil circulation and, worst, a damaged turbo. When the oil passage gets blocked, the turbocharger’s oil seal could overheat. If this happens, the whole turbo unit will be fully destructed and damaged.

These hidden signs are just some of the characters that can tell you if your Turbo needs fixing. And with all these in mind, you may think that it is such a hassle to have turbos in your vehicle. But that’s not the reality. Indeed, turbochargers may require special treatment to keep them performing well. But that does not mean maintaining them is challenging. You have to be diligent in having them regularly maintained. Also, a good driving practice would help in ensuring your Turbo’s longevity.

To know more about turbochargers, please contact us, or visit Pure Diesel Power for more info.

10 Hidden Signs of Diesel Turbocharger Problems