With modern motor vehicles becoming increasingly more powerful and compact, turbocharging is becoming more commonplace in modern BMW and MINI models.
With Turbocharged engines spanning the complete BMW and MINI ranges we are now experiencing more customer queries than ever before.
Firstly, we will begin to explain what exactly a turbocharger does. A turbocharger uses the exhaust gasses from the engine to spin a turbine which in turn spins a compressor wheel to compress or force air into the engine. This increases the engines volumetric efficiency to over 100% increasing power and torque significantly compared to a non turbocharged engine. This enables a physically smaller engine to be used in place of a larger engine enhancing the vehicle’s performance and dynamics to levels previously unattainable with non turbocharged engines.
The latest generation of turbocharges used across the BMW and MINI ranges feature several advanced features such as variable geometry, twin scroll exhaust housings, internal electronic waste gate valves and full computer control of electronic boost control systems. All of these features further refine the driving experience and reduce fuel consumption while offering superior emission performance. This makes your BMW or MINI not only more fuel-efficient than comparable models but significantly cleaner running which means better for the environment and your family’s health.
Despite continual product development and rigorous testing even the best motor vehicles eventually require service or repairs and that’s where the team at Stokes and Renk BMW and MINI service come in. We specialise in all aspects of turbocharger service, diagnosis and repair. So how do you know if your turbocharger requires repair? Below we have listed some common symptoms that may indicate that your turbocharger is due for service or repair.
- White smoke from the exhaust pipe either after the vehicle has sat at idle (ie. at traffic lights) or while driving
- Whining noise that increases and decreases in pitch when accelerating the vehicle
- Poor engine performance of increased fuel consumption
- Fault codes present in the engine DME
Below is an example of a faulty turbocharger that has ben diagnosed and replaced by our BMW specialist technicians. This turbocharger was the unfortunate victim of turbocharger bearing failure caused by inadequate servicing and lack of engine oil changes. This could have been prevented with the correct maintenance procedures as performed by the team at Stokes and Renk BMW service.
