Engine - Turbocharger Damage Prevention

Turbo failures

Subaru turbochargers are designed to operate up to 180,000 rpms. Changes to the turbo boost pressure can increase these revolutions to 200,000 rpms which will lead to premature failure of the turbo. Another possible cause is that the air cleaner element was removed and a foreign object got into the turbo or an aftermarket filter such as a wide mesh filter was used, allowing dirt into the turbo. Any resulting imbalance of the turbine/compressor shaft can also cause turbo failure.

Generally speaking the first indication of a damaged turbo will be a high frequency noise. A damaged turbo shaft will also lead to loss of power and high oil consumption.