Does the powertrain warranty cover a turbo?

In many cases, a turbocharger failure is covered under a powertrain warranty if it arises from a defect in materials or workmanship, but coverage is not universal and depends on the manufacturer's terms for your specific vehicle.

How powertrain warranties typically work

Powertrain coverage is designed to protect the core components that enable the vehicle to run and move, focusing on the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. This section explains what is usually included and what is not.

• Engine: Cylinder block, internal components, cylinder heads, and related parts that are essential to engine operation. In some policies, the turbocharger may be treated as part of the engine assembly.


• Transmission and drivetrain components: Automatic or manual transmissions, driveshafts, axles, differentials, and related parts necessary for delivering power to the wheels.


• Internal lubricated components: Pumps, timing chains/gears, oiling components, and bearings that are integral to operation.


• Common exclusions: Wear items, routine maintenance, fuel system failures, and damage from abuse, accidents, improper maintenance, or contaminants not caused by a manufacturing defect.

Actual coverage can vary by brand and model. Always verify the exact list of covered components in your warranty booklet or dealership contract.

Where turbochargers fit in coverage

Turbochargers are a separate device attached to the engine and can be treated as either part of the engine or as a distinct component depending on the policy. This section outlines how coverage is commonly applied and what to watch for in your policy.

• In some manufacturers' powertrain plans, the turbocharger is explicitly included as part of the engine or overall powertrain and is covered for the same duration as the engine under defect-based failures.


• In other brands, the turbocharger is listed as a separate component with its own coverage terms, which may align with powertrain terms or differ in duration.


• Some policies exclude turbochargers entirely, especially if failures are attributed to external factors (oil quality, contamination, improper boost control) or to maintenance issues.


• Turbo-related failures caused by defects in materials or workmanship are typically covered when they fall within the policy’s definition of a covered engine component, even if the turbo is named separately.

Because turbo coverage can change with model year and vehicle, check your warranty terms precisely and ask your dealer for the Turbocharger coverage section when discussing a policy.

Brand-specific variations

Coverage terms for turbochargers vary by manufacturer and model year. Some automakers clearly include the turbocharger within powertrain coverage, while others treat it as a separate component with its own limits or exclusions. Always review the exact language in your contract and ask the dealer to point you to the turbocharger section relevant to your vehicle.

How to verify coverage for your turbo today

To confirm whether a turbocharger is covered under your powertrain warranty, take these steps:

1. Review the warranty booklet and any contract addenda for the exact turbocharger language and definitions of "poweredtrain" or "engine" coverage.


2. Consult your vehicle’s VIN-specific warranty status on the manufacturer’s website or by contacting the dealer service department.


3. Ask the service advisor to quote what is covered for turbocharger failures and what documentation is required in a claim.


4. Compare coverage across your manufacturer’s certified pre-owned or extended warranty options if you are considering an upgrade.

In case of a turbo failure, gathering documentation such as service records, maintenance history, and evidence of proper maintenance can help support a warranty claim.

What to do if your turbo fails outside the warranty

If the turbocharger fails outside the coverage window or if the claim is denied, you may still have options such as an extended warranty, an aftermarket repair, or goodwill assistance from the dealer or manufacturer. It is worth asking about these possibilities before paying out of pocket.

Summary

Turbocharger coverage under a powertrain warranty varies by manufacturer and model. Some policies include the turbo as part of the engine or powertrain, while others treat it as a separate component with its own terms or exclusions. Always review the exact contract language, verify VIN-specific coverage, and consult your dealer to confirm whether turbo failures are covered for your vehicle. If a turbo failure occurs during the warranty period, file a claim promptly and provide complete maintenance documentation.

Additional context and notes

Warranty terms can change and differ by manufacturer and model year. For the most accurate answer, refer to your owner's manual and warranty documents or contact the brand's customer service. This article reflects typical practices as of 2024–2025 and should not replace the official contract language.

Does the powertrain warranty cover turbos?

Yes, most manufacturer powertrain warranties include the turbocharger, as it is often considered a part of the engine's core components. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific warranty, so it's essential to check your vehicle's contract for details on what is covered and what can void the warranty.
 
Coverage details

• Generally included: Many powertrain warranties, including those from manufacturers like Ford and GMC, specifically list the turbocharger/supercharger as a covered component. 
• Internally lubricated parts: Since the turbocharger is internally lubricated by the engine's oil, it is frequently covered under this part of the warranty. 
• Check your contract: It is crucial to read your specific warranty document to confirm coverage, as some extended warranties may have different terms. 
• Potential exclusions:
  • Modifications: Aftermarket turbocharger kits or other unauthorized modifications can void your warranty, as seen in the example from Endurance Warranty and Chevrolet. 
  • Maintenance requirements: Failure to follow the recommended maintenance schedule can lead to denied claims. 
  • Wear and tear: Many warranties do not cover parts that have failed due to normal wear and tear. 

What to do

• Review your warranty: Look for a section detailing "Engine" or "Powertrain" coverage and check if "turbocharger" is explicitly mentioned. 
• Consult your dealer: If you're unsure, contact the dealership or warranty provider for clarification. 
• Keep maintenance records: Make sure you have records of all scheduled maintenance, especially oil changes, to prove you've followed the service schedule. 

How much does it cost to get a turbo replaced?

Replacing a turbo costs anywhere from $400 to over $3,500, with a common average for a light-duty vehicle being between $2,000 and $3,000. The price varies significantly based on the vehicle type, the complexity of the turbo, parts costs (which can range from $500 to $6,000+), and labor rates (which can range from $500 to over $5,000). 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost for the turbo itself varies widely based on its type and brand. Single turbochargers are generally cheaper than twin-turbo setups. For heavy-duty vehicles, replacement units can range from around $2,000 to over $10,000 when purchased new from a dealership. 
• Labor: Labor costs typically range from $500 to over $5,200 depending on the vehicle and the shop. Some sources estimate labor for a full replacement between $695 and $1,020, while others suggest it can be a much larger portion of the total cost. 
• Total average cost:
  • Light-duty vehicles: The average cost is often between $400 and $1,500. 
  • Heavy-duty diesel vehicles: The cost is higher, generally ranging from $1,200 to $3,500, but can be much more with dealership parts and labor. 

What to consider

• Underlying issues: It's crucial to identify and fix the root cause of the turbo failure, otherwise, the new turbo could fail prematurely. 
• Downtime: For heavy-duty trucks, the cost of downtime can be significant and may outweigh the cost of the repair itself. 
• Dealer vs. Independent shop: Dealerships are often more expensive for both parts and labor than independent shops or DIY replacements. 
• Exhaust system: If the turbo fails and oil leaks into the exhaust, you may also need to replace the catalytic converter, which can significantly increase the total cost. 

What does a powertrain warranty not cover?

Certain excluded components: Typically, powertrain warranty coverage excludes these specific components: Excluded engine components: Sensors, wiring, connectors, engine radiator, coolant hoses. Excluded transmission components: Hoses, radiator, sensors, wiring, transmission cooling lines.

Is turbo covered under warranty?

Yes, a turbo is generally covered under a new car's factory powertrain warranty, but coverage depends on the specific warranty, the cause of failure, and if you followed the required maintenance schedule. While factory warranties are likely to cover it as a powertrain component, aftermarket warranties may exclude turbos unless they are specifically listed in the contract.
 
What to consider

• Factory vs. aftermarket warranties: Most factory warranties consider the turbo a powertrain component and cover it, but this varies by manufacturer. Aftermarket warranties are often more restrictive and may have a specific list of covered parts; if the turbo isn't on the list, it's not covered. 
• Cause of failure: Warranties typically cover manufacturing defects but not damage from misuse, normal wear and tear, or accidents. If your turbo failed due to racing, improper installation, or lack of maintenance, it may not be covered. 
• Maintenance is key: You must have followed the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for the warranty to be valid. For example, failing to change the oil on time could void the warranty even if the failure was a manufacturing defect. 
• Read the fine print: Always check the specific details of your warranty document to understand exactly what is and is not covered, as well as any exclusions. 

You can watch this video to learn more about what a turbo warranty covers: 1mMomentum WorxYouTube · Mar 11, 2023