Turbocharger Cleaning

Diesel engine turbos - particularly Variable Geometry Turbochargers (VGTs) - operate in extremely hot exhaust gas streams. Over time, carbon deposits from combustion and oil vapour accumulate on the variable vanes, nozzle ring, and actuator mechanism. These deposits restrict vane movement (which controls boost level and exhaust braking), reduce turbo efficiency, and in severe cases cause the vane mechanism to seize in one position - triggering turbo faults, power loss, and black smoke.

Common symptoms include: turbo-related fault codes (P0299 underboost, P0234 overboost, VGT position codes), lack of power especially at low RPM, excessive black or blue smoke from the exhaust, poor throttle response, turbo whistle or unusual noise, check-engine or limp mode activation, and visible oil leaks from turbo seals under stress.

In most cases where the turbo fault is caused by carbon deposits on the VGT mechanism (which is extremely common), cleaning is significantly more cost-effective than full turbo replacement. A quality turbocharger replacement for a Class 8 truck can cost $2,500–$5,000 or more including labour. Cleaning typically resolves the same fault at a fraction of that cost. If the turbo has suffered bearing failure or physical damage, replacement may be unavoidable - but our inspection will determine this before any work is quoted.

A VGT (also called a Variable Nozzle Turbine or VNT) uses a ring of adjustable vanes around the turbine wheel to vary the speed and angle of exhaust gas flow. This allows the turbo to deliver strong boost at low RPM and controlled boost at high RPM - improving fuel economy and engine braking. The vane mechanism is operated by a pneumatic or electronic actuator. Carbon deposits act like grit in the mechanism, progressively restricting vane movement until they stick completely.

Chemical on-engine cleaning (sometimes called "turbo cleaning in a can") can address very early-stage deposits with limited effectiveness. For moderate to heavy carbon accumulation - which is typically what causes drivable symptoms and fault codes - physical removal and hands-on cleaning is required to fully clear the vane mechanism and restore proper operation. This is the service we provide.

Turbocharger removal, cleaning, and reinstallation typically takes 4–8 hours for most Class 6–8 truck applications. We aim to have your truck back in service the same day in most cases. Turnaround time will be confirmed at booking once we know the make and model.

Yes. We service turbochargers on all major Class 6–8 diesel trucks and engine brands including Cummins (ISX, X15, ISB), Detroit Diesel (DD13, DD15, DD16), PACCAR (MX-13), Volvo (D13), Mack (MP8), and Navistar (A26) - across all major truck OEMs including Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack, Volvo, International, and Western Star.