For both petrol heads and average drivers alike, the turbo provides the extra performance that we want from our vehicles. But even the best-maintained turbo can get to a point where wear is such that the performance is less than optimal, or even that the turbo has failed completely. When this happens, you will need someone to do turbo refurbishment. In this article, we will discuss what turbo refurbishment involves, why it is important, and where to go for the best turbo refurbishment near you.
turbo refurbishment
What is Turbo Refurbishment?
The purpose of turbo refurbishment, or what’s also called a turbo reconditoning, turbo rebuild, turbo overhaul and turbos repowers, is to return it to like-new condition. This process includes dissembling, carefully cleaning the basic components, repairing worn or damaged parts, and then assembling the unit and testing it for proper calibration. You get it back, in other words, like the factory made it – usually for a fraction of the cost of a new rebuilt turbo.
Why is Turbo Refurbishment Important?
Cost-Efficient: You can have it refurbished for a fraction of what a new turbocharger would cost. It’s budget-friendly.
Performance Restoration: It’ll give you the boost and efficiency with your turbo restored to prime condition.
Environmental Benefits: In terms of safeguarding the environment, returbished and reused turbochargers do not incur additional manufacturing costs and also do not add significant waste.
Extended Lifetime: Get your money’s worth, and rebuild your turbocharger the right way.
Common Signs Your Turbo Needs Refurbishment
Loss of Power: A noticeable loss of power means the turbo might be in trouble.
Whining, grinding, or unusual noises So if you hear whining, grinding, or other unusual noises coming from under the hood, chances are reasonably good that there could be a problem with your turbocharger.
Smoking: A lot of smoke from the exhaust – such as grey, blue or black fumes – could mean that the oil or grease from the turbocharger has started to leak.
Check Engine Light: Light might be on because of turbocharger problems, but it might also be on for a host of other reasons.
If you are using more oil than usual, your turbocharger seals or other parts are failing.
How to Find Reliable Turbo Refurbishment Near You
Online Search:Make an online search via the keyword ‘turbo refurbishment near me’ as its the first step that will land huge numbers of local business that provide the turbo refurbishment services near you. From the list given on the screen check their websites for any information whether they offer turbo refurbishment services, if they have experience in the aspect of mechanical service and what reviews have been shared by their previous customers who has been a beneficiary of their services.
Customer reviews and ratings: Look for reviews and ratings on sites such as Google, Yelp or other automotive forums. If previous customers had good experiences, then you likely will as well.
Ask Your Friends For References: If you’re lucky enough to know a car fanatic or two (or if you happen to have a friend or family member who happens to own a local garage), just ask. A personal recommendation is invaluable.
Ask to see qualifications and experience: is your service provider sending a qualified technician with experience in turbo refurbishment? Do they offer references from other customers? Is there a manufacturer’s warranty? Are they certified with a recognised body?
Request Quotes: Send out your project to at least a half-dozen service providers. Ask for a detailed quote and compare prices, services and timeframes. Beware of a quote that is ‘too good to be true’; it usually is.
Make a site visit: If possible, visit the workshop personally. Having a well-run, orderly, and professional-looking facility is often indicative of a good service.
What to Expect from a Turbo Refurbishment Service
First Step Inspection Your turbocharger is carefully inspected. Anything that shows signs of wear or damage will be noted. Repair Quotation If your turbocharger is suitable for a repair, a quote will be given. Rebuilt And Reinstated If the repair is acceptable to you and you decide to proceed, your repaired turbo will be return and reinstated.
Disassembly and Cleaning: The turbocharger is broken down, all parts are cleaned, using ultrasound baths and washing machines. All impurities, carbon deposits, oil residues are taken out.
Component Replacement: Compressor and Turbine Damaged/Worn Components Repaired and Replaced with like new parts. Bearings New seals/gaskets. Compressor wheel or Turbine Replaced (if appropriate).
Balance and put together: turbo unit restored. Balance is the vital step in putting the turbo together. If this step is skipped, the input shaft spins and the compressor and turbine will seize. They become stuck and it will ruin the turbo and possibly the engine.
Testing and Calibration: After reassembly, your turbocharger is tested to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. The manufacturer will test it for boost pressure, oil leaks, efficiency, and any other operational factors to ensure your turbocharger is functioning perfectly.
A final inspection of all the parts can be undertaken to check that everything is in order. It’s worth enquiring about a warranty from a trusted turbo replacement and repair specialist to give you confidence that the service will last.
Maintaining Your Refurbished Turbocharger
Regular Maintenance: Do you follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule? If not, this could take the lead. Keeping the turbocharger in good shape goes hand in hand keeping the other mechanical parts in good shape, such as changing the oil at regular intervals. Furthermore, do you purchase cheap-grade oil? This can cause premature wear in your setup, which means that you may have to replace your turbocharger prematurely and suffer further defeats in the future.
Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Allow your engine to idle and warm up before you start to drive it hard. This helps keep all the parts properly lubricated and cool. Similarly, let it idle (don’t turn it off) for several minutes after you are done driving.
Look out for problems: Catch problems early and fix them fast. This can prevent extensive damage down the line and give you many more miles of turbocharger service.
Conclusion
Finding a competent ‘turbo refurbishment near me’ can extend the life of your vehicle and significantly improve its performance, if you understand the value of turbo refurbishment, recognise common issues related to your downsized engine, and know what to look for in a reputable service provider, chances are your turbocharger will be back to good health in no time at all. Regular maintenance and conscientious care will keep your refurbished turbo blowing strong, putting the extra horsepower you need under your right foot, and keeping you smiling behind the wheel. No matter the reason for your search — whether you’re a dedicated car enthusiast or you’re just looking to keep a daily driver on the road for another few years — quality turbo refurbishment is an investment into the health of your ride.
