The fact that turbochargers are equipped to deal with extremely high temperatures and stress makes them extremely durable. However, just like any other mechanical part, they can fail after a certain amount of use. Most of the failures of turbochargers have a profound impact on engine performance, leading to a reduction in power, an increase in fuel consumption, and even damage to other engine parts. Luckily, the solutions to most of these problems lie in the fact that the rebuild is able to handle them. This article describes the most common failures of turbochargers and the ways in which the rebuild can solve them.

Bearing Failure

 One of the most frequent engine problems caused by a turbocharger is bearing failure. High-speed bearings are used to hold the turbine wheel and the compressor wheel in place. Because of heat, friction and lack of consistent lubrication, the bearings will eventually wear down. When this happens, increased friction inside the turbo will lead to less efficiency and inevitably to a turbo failure.

 During a rebuild, the worn bearings are replaced with new ones, which spins the turbo freely and removes friction. This can increase the turbo's power output and continue its functionality.

Compressor and Turbine Wheel Damage

 The air inlet pump siphons air into the compressor and turbine wheels. These compress the air and push the exhaust gases through the turbo. When there is an object, debris or other problem, these wheels can get bent or cracked. Damaged compressor and turbine wheels reduce the amount of air that flows into the vehicle's engine, decreasing boost pressure and engine power.

 The damaged wheels in a turbo rebuild either get repaired or replaced. Either way, the value of the turbo is restored: it will once again create the pressure necessary to push air into the engine and get it working properly.

Oil Leaks and Contamination

 Components in turbochargers (nuts, bolts, bearings and seals) that are directly lubricated and cooled by engine oil can leak oil back into the engine, shortening the life of the mechanism. Due to wear of the turbo components and gaskets, oil can migrate through the intake or exhaust pipes, reducing the turbo's energy output and causing damage to the turbo's moving components. If weacker engine oil is used than recommended by the manufacturer, oil can enter the engine combustion space, which burns oil and can damage your engine.

 The car forever on the slippery surface of first impressions In a turbo rebuild, the seals and gaskets are replaced so that oil can't leak out, and so that the turbo has a chance of being lubricated again. We don't want to run a car, not to mention a turbo, on the slippery surface of first impressions. A turbo rebuild lets us restore the device to reasonable efficiency and, unlike a quick fix, avoids oil-enabled engine damage.

Carbon Build-Up and Reduced Efficiency

 Eventually, the carbon can clog up the turbo, often in the separate parts that house the turbine and the compressor. This reduces the turbo's effectiveness because the thickening of the carbon around the parts restricts air flow through the turbo, stopping it from generating boost pressure, and will cause what is known as turbo lag – a delay before the turbo compressor kicks in, which will reduce the engine's performance.

 The turbo is then scraped clean to eliminate carbon deposits and other rubble from out in the field. After that, it can either be reassembled or taken apart and given a fresh coat of paint.

Conclusion

 Bearing wear or bearing failure, damaged turbine and compressor wheels, oil leaks and carbon build up are all very common results of turbo charger failure. The good news is that all these problems and more can normally be corrected with a simple rebuild of the engine's turbocharger. Repairing a damaged turbocharger enables vehicle operators to solve many of the usual turbo problems and improve longevity on an engine. A turbo rebuild allows the turbocharger to keep working as efficiently and effectively as possible, keeping the engine in tip-top shape and delivering optimal horsepower and fuel efficiency for years to come.