In this article, we are going to be looking into the cost of replacing a turbo on a Chevy Cruze. I will also be talking about getting the best value for your money as well as what causes turbo failure and how to better take care of it.
The Chevy Cruze runs on the 1.4L Ecotec Turbo engine. This is a reliable engine that is used in several other small Chevy vehicles. It is reliable and economical but has been known to have problems with the turbo that often lead to replacement.
In short, the average turbo replacement cost on the Chevy Cruze is $2000, to replace the turbo on your Chevy Cruze will cost you anything between $1,857 and $2,150. Labour will cost you anything between $469 and $591 while parts will cost between $1,388 and $1,559. Please note that there may be price variations based on location
How Much Does it Cost to Replace Chevy Cruze Turbo?
As far as replacement cost is concerned, there are several factors that need to be taken into account. First, it matters whether you will be using OEM or aftermarket replacement turbos.
Though the OEMs are specifically made for the Chevy Cruze, it doesn’t necessarily follow that they are the best option. For starters, they are actually more expensive than most aftermarket alternatives. Secondly, some aftermarket replacement turbos are actually better quality than the OEM ones.
Seasoned mechanics will often prefer to use specific aftermarket brands than factory ones. While the OEM options can cost you anywhere between $1,857 to $2,150, a good aftermarket alternative can be bought for as little as $600 online.
It is imperative that you do some research before settling on a specific brand. Labour will cost you about $469 on the low end and just under $600 on the high end. Replacing a turbo yourself is an option but there are a lot of parts that need to be removed and replaced in order to access and install a new turbo.
In light of that, you may be better served by forking out the labor cost unless you already have some mechanical aptitude or are up for a challenge.
What Causes Chevy Cruze Turbo Failure?
There are several causes of turbo failure on the Chevy Cruzebut one of the most common causes is the actuator pin in the turbo wastegate malfunctioning.
This leads to the blades in the turbo wearing away over time. Another, less publicized cause is the coil feedline clogging up.
This happens when, over time, the oil is baked and gradually clogs up the feedline. This ultimately leads to turbo failure. It is recommended that the coil feed line is replaced after every 50,000 miles to avoid turbo failure.
How Do I Know if My Turbo is Damaged?
So, what are the tell-tale signs of a bad turbo that needs to be replaced?
Here is a list of some of the things that point to a bad turbo:
- Check the engine light showing on the dashboard
- Grey/blue smoke coming out of the exhaust
- Power loss especially during acceleration
- Delayed and loud acceleration
- Inability to maintain high speeds
How to Prevent Turbo Failure in Chevy Cruze
As they say, prevention is better than cure. What are some of the things that can be done to prevent your turbo from failing?
I’ve already mentioned this one but make sure that your coil feedline is kept clear is one thing. It is a good practice to ensure that you change it out at between 40,000 miles to 50,000 miles.
Another thing that you could also look into is the actuator pin in the turbo wastegate since this is one of the most common reasons for turbo failure in the Chevy Cruze. Check it regularly and replace it as and when necessary.
How Long Does a Chevy Cruze Turbo Last?
This question has several possible answers based on several factors. On average, you can expect to get around 90,000 miles or more provided you make sure to maintain the turbo properly.
If, on the other hand, your Cruze is tuned, you could possibly get as little as 10,000 miles from it before it needs to be replaced. At the end of the day, it’s all about how much strain is put on the turbo as well as how well it is maintained throughout its lifespan.
Conclusion on Chevy Cruze Turbo Replacement Cost
There you have it. I’ve given you the answer to the question of how much you can expect to spend when it comes to replacing a Chevy Cruze turbo. When you look at it, replacing the turbo on a Chevy Cruze is not a cheap undertaking.
You will have to fork out a considerable amount even in the case where you do the job yourself or find someone who can do it for cheap. At the end of the day, you will need to make a cost and benefit analysis to establish the best route for you.
Source:
Tomas is a retired Chevy Auto Technician that brings decades of hands-on experience and expertise to the table. He’s also a father to two incredible daughters. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help you solve and find reliable information on Chevrolet vehicles. Whether it’s troubleshooting engine problems or providing tips for maintenance, Thomas is committed to helping Chevy owners keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.
