How much does a turbo job cost?

Turbos jobs for a typical passenger car usually run about $1,000 to $3,000 overall. The exact total depends on whether you’re cleaning, rebuilding, or replacing the turbo, the car model, and labor costs in your area.

Turbo work can involve cleaning and inspecting the unit, rebuilding with a repair kit, or installing a new turbocharger (OEM or aftermarket). Prices are shaped by the engine design (single vs twin turbo), whether related parts (oil lines, intercooler, gaskets) must be replaced, and shop labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you plan and compare estimates.

Turbo service options and price ranges

Below are the common service options and the typical price range you might expect, including parts and labor. Real-world quotes depend on your vehicle and location.

• Turbo cleaning and inspection (no replacement): typically $100 to $350.


• Turbo rebuild (using a repair kit and bearings, with labor): commonly $500 to $1,600 for parts plus labor, totaling about $1,000 to $2,200.


• Turbo replacement with a new unit (aftermarket or OEM): usually $1,000 to $2,500 for aftermarket parts; OEM/brand-name units can push total to $2,000–$4,000 or more, with labor often 2–6 hours at $75–$150/hour.


• Ancillary parts and services (oil lines, intercooler hoses, gaskets, downpipes, coolant lines): typically $200 to $1,000 depending on parts and whether additional repairs are needed.

Prices vary widely by vehicle and region, and some cars require more labor or specialized parts. Always get a written, line-item estimate before work begins.

Costs by vehicle type and engine design

Different engines and vehicle classes drive price differences. Here are general ranges by scenario to set expectations.

• Economy/gasoline passenger cars (single-turbo setups common in mid-size sedans): typically $1,000 to $2,500 total.


• Diesel engines (larger turbo systems, additional cooling, higher labor intensity): typically $1,800 to $4,000.


• High-performance or luxury brands with complex or twin-turbo layouts: typically $2,500 to $5,000 or more.


• Specialized or rare setups (custom exhaust, multiple turbos, or difficult-to-access turbos): could exceed $6,000.

Note that these ranges assume a standard repair shop in the United States or similar markets. Dealer prices or shops in high-demand metro areas may be higher. Always consider warranty terms and the shop’s accreditation when comparing quotes.

Smart ways to manage turbo repair costs

Planned budgeting and careful shopping can help you get reliable service without overspending.

• Get multiple written estimates with itemized parts and labor, and ask about shop labor rates.


• Ask whether the quote includes a core charge, and whether you can supply a used or rebuilt core to lower costs.


• Consider a rebuild if the core housing is in good condition and seals/bearings are replaceable; replacement may be cheaper in some cases but not always.


• Inquire about warranties on parts and labor, and what is covered if a replacement fails.


• Address root causes (oil quality/maintenance, oil pump issues, or contaminated intercoolers) to avoid repeating the failure.

By planning ahead and comparing options, you can choose the most cost-effective solution that preserves the engine’s reliability.

Summary

A turbo job typically costs between about $1,000 and $3,000 for a standard car, with higher-end models, diesels, or luxury twin-turbo setups often pushing costs above that range. Your best approach is to obtain several written estimates, understand what each includes, and weigh the benefits of cleaning, rebuilding, or replacing the turbo along with any required ancillary work. Always consider warranty coverage and the long-term reliability of the repair.

Can I drive with a bad turbo?

No, you should not drive with a bad turbo, as it can lead to catastrophic engine damage. While it may be possible to drive short distances, the risk of metal shards from the turbo entering the engine is high, and the longer you drive, the more expensive the repairs will become. It is best to stop driving the vehicle immediately and have it towed to a mechanic. 
Risks of driving with a bad turbo

• Engine damage: A failing turbo can break apart and send metal pieces into the engine, causing severe and costly damage that may require replacing the entire engine. 
• Oil leaks: A bad turbo can lead to oil seals failing, which allows engine oil to enter the intake or exhaust system. This can cause smoke and, in some cases, a dangerous runaway engine situation where the engine accelerates on its own. 
• Loss of power: You will likely experience a significant loss of power, making the vehicle difficult to drive. 
• Increased costs: The longer you drive with a bad turbo, the greater the potential damage to other engine components, which will significantly increase the final repair bill. 

What to do if you suspect a bad turbo

• Stop driving: As soon as you notice symptoms like loss of power, strange noises, or smoke, pull over and turn off the engine. 
• Do not drive it: Avoid driving the vehicle to a mechanic yourself. 
• Call a tow truck: Get your car towed to a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair. 

How much does it cost to turbocharge a car?

Turbocharging a car can cost anywhere from $500 to over $5,000, depending on the vehicle, the type of turbo kit, and whether you do the work yourself or pay for professional installation. A simple single turbo kit might cost between $500 and $2,000, while more complex twin-turbo systems can cost $4,000 to $6,000 or more for the parts alone. Installation adds to the price, with professional labor typically costing between $500 and $1,000, but can vary significantly.
 
Cost breakdown

Cost Component	Estimated Cost	Notes
Turbocharger Kit	$500 - $6,000+	Single turbo kits are generally cheaper than twin-turbo systems, with higher-end kits costing more.
Professional Installation	$500 - $1,000+	The complexity of the job, the vehicle, and local labor rates will affect the final price.
Additional Components	$500 - $2,000+	This can include an intercooler, new exhaust and intake piping, and a new engine management system (ECU or re-map).
Engine Upgrades	Variable	For significant power gains, you may need to upgrade internal engine components like pistons, rods, or the crankshaft, which can be costly.
Professional Tuning	$500 - $1,000+	A proper tune is crucial to prevent engine damage and optimize performance, and it is essential after a turbo installation.

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Factors that affect the final price

• Vehicle and engine type: Turbocharging a less common or more complex engine can be significantly more expensive. 
• Quality of parts: Opting for high-quality parts from reputable brands will likely increase the initial cost but can lead to better performance and longevity. 
• DIY vs. professional installation: Professional installation is more expensive, but it is highly recommended to ensure proper setup and avoid potential engine damage. 
• Additional upgrades: You may need to upgrade other components, such as the fuel system, brakes, and suspension, to handle the increased power. 
• Labor rates: Shop around and get quotes from multiple mechanics, as labor rates can vary by location. 
• Emissions and legal requirements: Ensure the turbo kit and installation comply with local emissions and legal standards, as this may affect the overall cost. 

How much horsepower will a turbo add?

A turbo can add anywhere from 40 to over 300 horsepower, but the specific amount depends on the turbo's size, the engine's size and components, and the boost pressure. A general range for a common setup is 70-150 horsepower, while larger or high-performance systems can add 30–50% or even 100% or more of the engine's original horsepower. 
This video explains how much horsepower a turbo can add depending on the application: 1mMore AutomotiveYouTube · Aug 12, 2025
Factors that influence horsepower gain

• Turbocharger size and design: A larger turbo can generate more airflow and power, but may have a slower response time ("spool"). 
• Engine displacement: Smaller engines can see more significant percentage gains, as the turbo forces a higher ratio of additional air into the cylinders. 
• Engine components: The stock internal components like pistons and connecting rods must be strong enough to handle the increased stress. Upgrading these can allow for more power. 
• Boost pressure: This is the amount of pressure the turbo pushes into the engine. Higher boost pressure generally means more power, but also puts more stress on the engine. 
• Supporting modifications: Other parts like the fuel system, intercooler, and exhaust need to be upgraded to match the increased power and allow the engine to efficiently use the extra air. 
• Engine tuning: Custom tuning is required to optimize the fuel and air mixture for the new setup, maximizing power and ensuring engine safety. 

How much is labor to replace a turbo?

The labor cost to replace a turbocharger can range from approximately $500 to over $1,000, depending on the vehicle and the complexity of the job. Factors like shop rates, the specific car, and the hours required for the repair (which can be 3-6 hours or more) will influence the final price. Some heavy-duty or dealership quotes may show even higher labor costs. 
Factors that influence labor costs

• Vehicle and engine type: Some cars have turbos that are more difficult to access, increasing the labor time. 
• Shop rates: Labor rates vary between independent mechanics and dealerships, with dealerships often having higher rates. 
• Diagnosis: Additional labor may be required for diagnostics, especially if the turbo failure was caused by other underlying issues. 
• Additional parts: Some repairs may require replacing other parts like intercoolers or oil lines, which will increase the total labor time and cost. 
• Labor hours: The time required for the replacement can range from a few hours to several hours, depending on the complexity of the job. For example, some jobs might take 6.6 hours, while others could be quoted at 3-5 hours.