Buy used Turbocharger parts

What Is a Turbocharger and What Does It Do?

The turbocharger is a performance-enhancing engine component that increases the power output of a vehicle by forcing more compressed air into the engine’s combustion chamber. This allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce greater power without increasing engine size.

Fitted to both petrol and diesel engines, the turbocharger uses energy from the exhaust gases to drive a turbine, which in turn powers a compressor that feeds additional air into the engine. 

The result is a more efficient engine with increased torque, better acceleration, and reduced emissions.

How Does a Turbocharger Work?

The turbocharger is connected to both the exhaust manifold and the intake system. Here's how it works step by step:

1. Exhaust gases from the engine enter the turbine housing.
2. These gases spin the turbine wheel, which is attached to a central shaft.
3. The rotating shaft turns the compressor wheel in the compressor housing.
4. The compressor draws in and compresses clean air, pushing it into the intake manifold.
5. This compressed air mixes with fuel in the combustion chamber, generating more power from each explosion.

The turbocharger essentially recycles exhaust energy to give your engine a boost in both power and efficiency.

Benefits of a Turbocharger

• Increased engine performance and torque
• Better fuel efficiency, especially under load
• Lower CO₂ emissions due to more efficient combustion
• Enables smaller engines to deliver higher output
• Reduces the need for larger, heavier engines

Common Turbocharger Problems

Although turbochargers are built to last, they operate under extreme pressure and heat, which can lead to wear or damage over time. Common faults include:

• Excessive smoking (blue or black) from the exhaust
• Loss of engine power or torque
• Whining or shrill noises from the turbo
• Oil leaks in the intake or exhaust system
• Check engine light illuminated
• Poor fuel economy

Causes of Turbocharger Failure

Several conditions can lead to turbocharger failure:

• Oil starvation or contamination – Often due to low-quality or dirty engine oil
• Foreign objects entering the intake can damage the impeller blades
• Worn bearings causing shaft imbalance or friction
• Blocked or damaged oil supply lines
• Overheating from poor engine maintenance or clogged air filters
• Improper component fitment or installation of non-OEM parts

Timely oil changes, clean air filters, and proper driving habits can extend the life of your turbocharger.

Diagnosing Turbocharger Faults

If you notice reduced performance or any of the warning signs above, it may be time to inspect your turbo. Key diagnostic checks include:

• Looking for oil residue in the intake and intercooler pipes
• Inspecting the turbo impeller blades for chips or cracks
• Checking for excessive shaft play (axial and radial)
• Verifying there are no cracks in the housing
• Using a diagnostic scanner to read fault codes from the ECU

In many cases, professional diagnostics are required to determine whether the unit can be repaired or needs replacing.

Replacing a Turbocharger

If the turbocharger cannot be repaired, replacement is the best option. Here's what to do when installing a replacement turbocharger:

• Replace engine oil and filters
• Clean or replace the air and oil supply lines
• Use only new, high-quality gaskets and seals
• Remove any transport plugs from the new unit
• Let the engine idle for 2–5 minutes after installation to ensure proper lubrication#
• Always confirm the turbo is compatible with your car's make, model, and engine size

Buy Turbocharger Units Online

At Breakeryard, we stock a wide range of replacement turbochargers for all major vehicle brands. Whether you’re looking for a new, reconditioned, or used turbocharger, we make it simple:

• Enter your registration to match parts instantly
• Compare prices from trusted suppliers
• Choose delivery or use our collection service
• Save up to 80% compared to main dealers
• Buy with confidence – every part is guaranteed

Why Buy from Breakeryard?

• High-quality turbocharger parts at unbeatable prices
• Matched to your vehicle by reg or engine type
• Used and remanufactured turbos are available for budget repairs
• Fast UK delivery or local collection service
• Safe checkout and Right Part Guarantee

Popular Turbocharger Brands & Models

We stock turbochargers for:

• Ford, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Vauxhall, Peugeot, Renault
• Mercedes-Benz, Skoda, Citroën, Toyota, Nissan, Volvo, and more
• All major OEM brands: Garrett, BorgWarner, IHI, Mitsubishi, KKK

Need a Turbo Replacement?

Enter your registration now to find the right turbocharger for your car. Whether you're looking to improve performance or replace a failing unit, we’re here to help you buy turbochargers online with ease.