Turbocharger Boost Management

A turbocharger consists of a turbine wheel and a compressor wheel that rotate on a common shaft within their respective housings. The turbine wheel is plumbed into the exhaust system and exhaust flow spins the turbine blades, which in turn drives the compressor wheel. The compressor section of the turbo is part of the air intake system. Air is drawn through the air filter and intake tube, compressed by the compressor wheel and forced into the intake manifold. The wastegate regulates exhaust flow to the turbine wheel, thereby controlling compressor wheel speed and boost. The wastegate may be incorporated into the turbine housing or be an external component.

A typical wastegate is controlled by an actuator containing a diaphragm and spring, which is connected to boost pressure. The actuator spring rate is calibrated according to boost pressure limit. When the wastegate is closed, boost pressure can build. When boost reaches a predetermined level, the pressure acts against the actuator spring to open the wastegate, allowing exhaust flow to bypass the turbine wheel into the exhaust system. On older turbocharged vehicles, the wastegate actuator was directly connected to boost pressure, but on modern turbocharged vehicles the wastegate is electronically controlled.

Boost is controlled by the engine control computer, which determines the appropriate amount of boost required for various vehicle operating conditions based on internal programming and input from sensors including a manifold pressure sensor and knock sensor. The computer controls boost via a boost control solenoid. Boost pressure is routed through the boost solenoid, which is wired into the engine management system. This allows the computer to control the pressure signal to the wastegate actuator. This more precise control ensures optimal power output and fuel economy with long-term engine durability. Symptoms of a faulty boost control solenoid valve would be too much boost or insufficient boost, which will in most cases set a diagnostic trouble code in the engine control computer’s memory and turn on the instrument panel CHECK ENGINE light.

The solenoid valve itself may be checked by verifying airflow through the ports with and without power applied to the solenoid, and the condition of the hoses in the system should also be checked. Whatever turbocharger boost management component malfunction you’re experiencing, we have the replacement parts to restore long-lasting performance, fuel economy and durability. Our turbocharger boost management components are manufactured according to original equipment specifications, so when service is completed you can count on the performance and reliability your vehicle was designed to deliver.

Found on most modern vehicles, turbo systems are controlled electronically via a solenoid valve. Electronic boost controllers are far more sophisticated, powerful and accurate. They demand a little bit more technical knowledge for installation when compared to mechanic controllers but provide multiple boost settings for various driving conditions. Mechanical controllers operate using a switch and are a great option to go for those who want “set-n-forget” turbo boost pressure control. They may not offer an array of features provided by electronic boosters but are very simple in installation and reliable in operation. They offer the driver up to two settings and need zero maintenance. On our virtual shelves, we handpick a wide range of industry-leading turbo boost controllers in a variety of eye-catching designs to give you the power to control your boost pressure and enjoy maximum performance benefits while adding extra style.