What to Do About Subaru Turbocharger Problems

Are you no longer getting the expected boost from your Subaru’s turbocharger? A lack of power could be a clear sign that your turbo is nearing its end. Turbochargers provide Subarus with the unique performance that car lovers crave but when they begin to fail, it really can put a damper on things. Below are the common Subaru turbocharger issues and how you can address them.

What is the Function of a Turbocharger?

A turbocharger assists in boosting the power of your engine by compressing more air in the combustion chamber. The higher the amount of air that gets to the engine, the higher the amount of fuel that can also be burned, meaning more power. This process makes your Subaru get that extra speed and power as you step on the accelerator. However, this also means that turbochargers are put under a lot of stress and can fail or become faulty over time.

Common Subaru Turbocharger Problems

• Oil Leaks: One of the biggest issues that are associated with turbochargers is oil leakage. Because the turbo rotates at high speeds and at high temperatures, it has to count on the oil to provide lubrication and cooling to some of its parts. When there’s an oil leak the turbo does not receive the required lubrication and the inner components are likely to be damaged. This in the long run leads to a complete failure of the turbocharger and the vehicle’s engine.
• Worn Bearings: The components within the turbo include bearings that are very vital in the functioning of the turbo. These bearings enable the turbo to rotate at very high rpm, but they get worn out after some time. As the bearings wear out the turbo will not spin as freely and this will affect the performance of the vehicle and can cause damage to other components.
• Dirty Air Filter: A turbocharger requires a clean and uninterrupted air supply so that it can help in the process of compressing air. If your air filter is clogged or dirty, then you will realize that less air gets to the turbo than should and this can put extra load on it. This additional pressure may cause poor durability of the turbo and issues such as overheating may occur.
• Damaged Compressor Wheel: The compressor wheel is the component in the turbocharger that compresses the air that is to be supplied to the engine. If it gets damaged, then the turbo will not be able to produce the power that is required of it. Particles from the roads can penetrate the turbo and cause the compressor wheel to be poor in performance.

What to Do When Turbocharger Issues Arise

• Get a Professional Inspection: The only sure way of finding out whether your turbocharger is the culprit is to seek the services of a mechanic. They can conduct tests to find out whether the turbo is working as it should or whether it has some problems. It is always easier to prevent the problem from getting worse.
• Check Oil: As you have seen, oil is crucial in maintaining a healthy turbocharger; ensure you monitor your car’s oil levels. Low or dirty oil can lead to damage to the turbocharger.
• Replace Worn Parts: If your mechanic says that some parts of the turbo are worn like the bearings or the compressor wheel then it is best to change it as soon as possible. Carrying on to drive with worn turbo parts is very dangerous as it will lead to a total failure of the turbocharger which is very expensive to repair.
• Regular Maintenance: To avoid turbocharger issues on your Subaru in the first place, it is wise to ensure that you maintain your car properly. Ensure that you’re changing the air filter at the right time, inspecting for oil leaks, and having your engine inspected for minor issues that could become major ones if not detected early enough.

Schearer’s Is Your Go-to For Subaru Turbocharger Services

At Schearer’s Sales and Service Inc., we work to ensure your Subaru runs as efficiently as it can. Turbocharger problems are one thing that might take you by surprise but with our many years of experience, we can assist in preventing those problems from arising in the first place. Our garage is located in Allentown, PA and our hardworking team is ready and willing to revive your Subaru if you come from the nearby areas including Bethlehem, and Macungie, PA. Come and see how professional services with a friendly touch can get your Subaru back to its optimal performance!