How expensive is it to replace a turbo?
The turbo can cost at least $1,500, while labor will typically run $500 or more. However, the type of car you drive and the engine it has will impact the final price you pay. For example, replacing a twin-turbo system, which is common on performance vehicles that have V6 or V8 engines, can cost up to $6,000. The average cost for a Turbocharger Assembly Replacement is between $2,364 and $2,962. Labor costs are estimated between $695 and $1,020 while parts are priced between $1,669 and $1,942. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.From the large quantity of quality turbo rebuilds we have completed over the years, £330 plus VAT is the average cost of a reconditioned turbocharger as a ball park figure (correct as of 2025).
Can I drive with a bad turbo?
No, it isn’t safe to drive with a faulty turbocharger, and it’s best to avoid driving until the issue is fixed. Even if your vehicle can still run, it’s only a matter of time before the blown turbocharger damages your engine, resulting in a bigger repair bill. The short answer is that you can still drive your car with a blown or damaged turbo. However, the longer you drive it in this state, the more damage the engine will have and the more expensive repair bill you will get.Once it has been determined that the turbo has blown, you have 2 options. Firstly, you can purchase a brand new turbo and have that fitted. Alternatively, if you wish to reduce the costs, it is possible to recondition and repair the turbo you have.Some of the signs and symptoms of a broken turbo include loss of power, slower accelerating and difficulty maintaining speed. Turbo failures are thankfully rare because your car turbo is designed to last as long as your car.Please be aware that turbo cleaners will not and cannot fix all turbo related problems. At the end of the day, they are a cleaning product and cannot repair worn parts or seized components. We’d always suggest using a diagnostic tool to fully investigate and identify the fault.
Can you fix a turbo without replacing it?
Turbo refurbishment refers to restoring a turbocharger back to a reliable working condition without replacing it entirely. The process typically includes dismantling the unit, cleaning components, replacing worn parts, and recalibrating to factory specifications. Generally looking, there are several turbo rebuilding techniques. The most common doesn’t involve repairing or replacing the core turbocharger components such as the compressor wheel, bearing housing or turbine shaft.In the past, turbos were known to cause all sorts of problems, from engine damage to premature wear and tear. However, modern turbos are much more reliable than their predecessors. Thanks to advances in engineering and manufacturing, today’s turbos are built to last.If you notice any change in the turbo’s usual sound, there is likely an issue. Some of the noises can be whining like a police siren, rattling, humming, or whistling. A turbo with a whining sound is the most telling sign of a blown turbo.
Is it worth replacing a turbo?
If you delay for too long, oil from the turbo could get into the catalytic converter – and once that happens, you’ll have to replace your entire exhaust system. So, whilst turbo replacement isn’t cheap, acting swiftly can save you a lot of money in the longer term. The short answer is that you can still drive your car with a blown or damaged turbo. However, the longer you drive it in this state, the more damage the engine will have and the more expensive repair bill you will get.Ultimately, whether to rebuild or replace your turbocharger is your decision, but there are several factors: Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, rebuilding the turbo is often the more cost-effective option. It’s especially true if the damage is minor and you can restore the turbo to near-new condition.Regular Oil Maintenance For the best performance from a turbocharger, change the oil at least every 5,000 miles, replacing it with a fully-synthetic oil which is the right API for your car’s engine type. Your vehicle’s handbook should recommend the best choice of oil for your car.Can I drive my car if the turbocharger fails? Driving a car with a worn turbocharger may ruin it to such an extent that it cannot be repaired. A damaged turbocharger can also disintegrate and, potentially, damage the engine severely.But if you use the correct controls, and maintain the system properly, there is no reason it can’t last as long as a regular naturally aspirated system.
Can a turbo ruin an engine?
A malfunctioning turbo can break apart, sending metal debris into the engine. These fragments can damage critical components like the pistons, valves, and combustion chamber, leading to extensive and expensive repairs. In serious cases, the entire engine may need replacement. An unclean turbo can cause many issues to the engine’s performance and operation. This includes adding stress to the engine and accumulation of debris and deposits, which can lead to potential damage. Regularly cleaning your turbo can prevent these issues.