VGT Turbocharger Troubleshooting
IMPORTANT: Before installing a replacement turbocharger on the vehicle, it is important to identify the root cause of the failure. This troubleshooting chart contains common failure symptoms and possible causes.
Possible Common Causes & Symptoms
| Improperly Maintained Engine |
Black Smoke
|
Blue Smoke
|
Oil Leaks - Turbine Side
|
Oil Leaks - Compressor Side
|
Turbocharger Noise
|
Excessive Oil Consumption
|
Loss of Power
|
Damaged Turbine/Compressor Wheel
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low oil level/dirty oil | ||||||||
| Leaking or damaged / restricted oil feed and/or drain line | ||||||||
| Sludge build up in the center housing or oil feed line | ||||||||
| Coke build up on turbine wheel and / or VGT nozzle blades | ||||||||
| Dirty air filter | ||||||||
| Restricted crankcase breathers | ||||||||
| Cracks/debris in or dirty charge air cooler | ||||||||
| Fuel management system improperly adjusted | ||||||||
| Restricted exhaust flow/clogged DEF filtration system |
| Worn Engine |
Black Smoke
|
Blue Smoke
|
Oil Leaks - Turbine Side
|
Oil Leaks - Compressor Side
|
Turbocharger Noise
|
Excessive Oil Consumption
|
Loss of Power
|
Damaged Turbine/Compressor Wheel
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Increased blow by | ||||||||
| Worn engine components - piston rings, valve guides, cylinder liners | ||||||||
| Defective piston ring seal | ||||||||
| Leaking turbocharge seals |
| Physical Damage / Noise |
Black Smoke
|
Blue Smoke
|
Oil Leaks - Turbine Side
|
Oil Leaks - Compressor Side
|
Turbocharger Noise
|
Excessive Oil Consumption
|
Loss of Power
|
Damaged Turbine/Compressor Wheel
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbine / compressor damage from foreign objects | ||||||||
| Failed / damaged turbocharger bearings | ||||||||
| Turbine / compressor housing damage/leakage | ||||||||
| Air box cracked or missing | ||||||||
| Air / Exhaust inlet/outlet connections leaking |