What to do if the turbocharger is leaking oil?
2 Answers
Turbocharger oil leakage may be caused by aging of the oil seal gasket, poor lubrication of the turbocharger, or damage to the turbocharger, and cannot be repaired, only replaced with a new one. Turbochargers also require lubrication. If the internal parts of the turbocharger do not receive adequate lubrication, it can easily lead to wear of internal components. When the internal components are severely worn, oil leakage may occur. In such cases, it is necessary to immediately replace the severely worn components and promptly add lubricating oil. When the turbocharger has an oil leakage issue, the performance of the engine will be affected. Once the pressure inside the turbocharger decreases, the turbocharger is no longer functioning normally, the efficiency of the turbocharger will definitely decrease, and the power of the engine will also be reduced accordingly.
If you find oil leaking from the turbo, don't rush to drive. First, locate the source of the leak. If the oil stains appear near the intermediate shaft, it's likely due to aging and cracked seals. If oil is seeping from the connecting pipes, it might be due to loose fittings or deformed gaskets. If you're doing it yourself, removing the turbo cover will let you inspect, but avoid touching precision components if you lack experience. The direct consequence is gradual oil loss, leading to dry friction, overheating, or even seizing of the turbo shaft, which will cost more to repair. The safest option is to call a tow truck and take it to a professional shop for an oil pressure test and inspection of turbo blade damage. Replacing a set of new seals can cost a few hundred dollars, but if the blades are deformed, consider replacing the entire turbo assembly. Remember to check the oil dipstick frequently while parked to ensure the oil level doesn't drop below the minimum.
