What part number is my turbo?

Part numbers are usually stamped or tagged on the turbo housing or packaging and must be cross-referenced with the manufacturer’s catalog or the vehicle VIN to confirm fit.

Turbochargers come from multiple manufacturers—Garrett, BorgWarner, Holset (Cummins), IHI—and part numbers vary by model and application. This guide walks you through where to look, how to read the markings, and how to verify the correct part for your engine.

Where to look for the part number

Start with the most common locations on the turbo itself. If there's a label, it will typically list both a model/part number and a serial number.

• Compressor housing near the outlet or on the compressor cover


• Bearing housing (center section) or heat shield area


• Turbine housing or the area around the wastegate actuator mounting


• A metal tag, sticker, or engraving on the housing, flange, or mounting points


• Original packaging, installation hardware, or the service/repair kit that came with the turbo


• Vehicle service history, dealer records, or VIN-based parts lookup

Tip: Clean the area and use adequate lighting to read small engravings; take clear photos of any codes you find for reference.

Understanding the numbers you find

Part numbers and serial numbers serve different purposes. The part number identifies a specific replacement part, while the serial number identifies the individual unit and production order.

What to look for

• Part number: an alphanumeric code that matches a catalog entry for your turbo model


• Serial number: a unique identifier for the individual unit, useful for warranty and service history


• Manufacturer prefix: indicates the brand (Garrett, BorgWarner, Holset, IHI, etc.)


• Date or batch codes: help trace production timing

With these distinctions, you can accurately navigate catalogs and avoid mismatches when ordering parts.

How to verify compatibility and cross-reference

Once you have a part number (and possibly a serial), verify it against official catalogs and your vehicle’s specifications. Use multiple sources to confirm exact fit and performance.

• Search the manufacturer’s official catalog or parts lookup by part number


• Enter your engine code, VIN, model year, and market region to filter results


• Compare key specs: compressor trim, A/R (area/ratio), wheel size, inlet/outlet sizes, and mounting flange type


• Check for model-year or ECU/tuning compatibility if the replacement is modern and electronically controlled


• When in doubt, contact the parts department with photos and your vehicle VIN for expert confirmation

Concluding: Accurate cross-referencing reduces the risk of ordering the wrong turbo and helps ensure proper fit and performance.

What to do if you still can't locate a number

If the turbo has no legible numbers, pursue alternative routes to identify it and confirm compatibility.

• Retrieve the vehicle’s VIN and engine code, then request a parts history lookup from the dealer or manufacturer


• Compare the physical dimensions, bolt pattern, intake/exhaust plumbing, and flange style to known models from the same engine family


• Consult a turbo specialist or an independent shop with clear photos and measurements


• Check packaging, service kits, or aftermarket catalogs that might list compatible replacements for your engine

Note: Salvage or rebuilt units may have altered markings; rely on OEM or reputable aftermarket catalogs for precise confirmation.

Next steps and cautions

Getting the exact part number is essential for proper fit, performance, and warranty support. Always verify with official catalogs and provide the VIN, engine code, and clear photos when seeking help.

Summary

To identify your turbo’s part number, locate the stamp or tag on the turbo housing, bearing housing, or packaging, then cross-reference with the manufacturer’s catalog using the engine or VIN information. Distinguish between part numbers (replacement part identifiers) and serial numbers (production identifiers) to ensure you order the correct unit. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer with clear photos and vehicle details for precise guidance.

How do you tell if you have a T3 or T4 turbo?

You can tell if you have a T3 or T4 turbo by comparing the physical size of the exhaust flange; the T4 flange is larger than the T3 flange. Another way is to check for a part number or manufacturer's tag on the turbocharger housing, which can be used to look up the model specifications, or by measuring the bolt hole spacing and port opening. A T4 turbo will also generally be designed for higher horsepower applications and have larger wheels and a larger turbine housing compared to a T3.
 
This video explains the differences between T3, T4, and T4i exhaust manifolds: 1mDieselPowerSourceYouTube · Sep 1, 2020
Physical and dimension-based identification

• Measure the flange: A T4 flange is physically larger than a T3 flange. 
  • T4 dimensions: Bolt hole spacing is approximately 3.253.253.25 inches by 2.752.752.75 inches, with a port opening of about 2.52.52.5 inches by 2.02.02.0 inches. 
  • T3 dimensions: The flange is smaller than the T4's. 
• Look for a part number: Find the manufacturer's tag or plate, which may be on the bearing housing or etched into the compressor housing. You can then search this part number online or on the manufacturer's website. 

Performance and size-based identification

• Check the turbo's performance rating: T4 turbos are generally used for higher horsepower applications (often over 800 HP) than T3 turbos (often 200-300 HP). 
• Compare the size of the wheels and housing: A T4 turbo typically has a larger compressor and turbine wheel than a T3, allowing for higher flow. 

What turbos does a 3.5 EcoBoost have?

The stock turbos on the 3.5L EcoBoost are BorgWarner OEM twin turbos for 2017-2020 models. However, many owners upgrade to aftermarket options like the Garrett Powermax for more performance or other custom turbochargers from companies like CR Performance and KC Turbos to achieve higher horsepower and torque. The specifics of the aftermarket turbos vary widely depending on the desired performance level, from Stage 1 bolt-on upgrades to heavily modified kits.
 
You can watch this video for a visual overview of the 3.5L EcoBoost twin turbos: 1mBoostKing MattYouTube · Jun 12, 2024
Stock turbos

• OEM Replacement: BorgWarner makes the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement turbos for 2017-2020 models.
• Function: They are designed for reliability and direct fitment, providing the factory-level performance for which the truck was engineered. 

Aftermarket upgrades

• Garrett: The Garrett Powermax is a popular upgrade, with Stage 1 for 2011-2016 models and Stage 2 for 2017-2020 models, offering significant flow increases over stock for more power. 
• CR Performance: This company offers custom turbochargers, such as their Stage 4 and Stage 5 kits, which feature larger compressor and turbine wheels for increased performance. 
• KC Turbos: They provide their own upgrade options, like the KC Reaper 500 series for 2011-2016 models, sometimes paired with an intercooler package. 
• Stealth: The Tomahawk kit is an example of a high-performance upgrade designed to support higher RPMs and power levels, especially when combined with other modifications. 
• Other options: There are other aftermarket suppliers, such as BD Diesel and Livernois Motorsports, who offer their own versions of upgraded turbos for the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. 

How to find turbo part number?

The part number will either be located on a tag that is attached to the compressor cover of the turbo or it will be cast and stamped into the alloy of the compressor housing.

How do I identify my turbo?

The turbo part number can usually be found stamped or etched into the compressor housing of the turbocharger. Other numbers will be visible on the ID plate. These will be Vehicle manufacturer part numbers and build serial numbers. Numbers that you may also see are the turbo frame type ie: TD05, TF035.