How to Replace a Turbocharger
The turbocharger is the part on the vehicle that compresses ambient air and directs it to the engine for maximum performance. The turbo spins at a very high velocity and causes heat and friction which eventually wear out the seals inside the turbo. When this happens, your engine will burn a lot more oil than it used to and you'll get a white-blue smoke emanating from your exhaust. To replace your turbo when this happens, follow the steps below.
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Things You'll Need
- New turbo
- New exhaust gaskets
- Ratchet
- Sockets
- Wrenches
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Jack
- Jack stands
Instructions
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1
Jack up the vehicle and place it on jack stands.
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2
Remove the exhaust downpipe from the turbocharger with a ratchet. There will typically be two bolts holding it on.
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3
Remove the oil and coolant lines running to the turbocharger with a wrench.
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4
Remove the air intake from the turbocharger with a Phillips head screwdriver.
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5
Loosen the four bolts holding the turbocharger to the exhaust manifold with a ratchet and remove the turbo.
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6
Install the new turbocharger and new exhaust gasket between the turbo and the exhaust manifold. Tighten the bolts to the torque specified by your vehicle's manufacturer. You can find the torque specification by contacting your dealership or looking in your factory service manual.
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7
Reconnect the oil and coolant lines to the turbocharger.
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8
Reconnect the air intake to the turbocharger air inlet and tighten with a Phillips head screwdriver.
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9
Reconnect the exhaust downpipe to the exhaust manifold and use a new exhaust gasket between them to ensure that your exhaust won't leak.
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10
Lower the vehicle onto the ground.
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1
Tips & Warnings
It may help to drain the oil and coolant before removing the turbocharger so that you don't spill fluid everywhere.
Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from injury.
