All About Ford Turbochargers

Every Ecoboost engine has one or two turbochargers. Turbochargers force more air into the engine in order to boost its power.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the turbocharger in your Ford.

How Do Turbochargers Work?

Turbos

Image Credit: Truck Trend

Your Ford turbocharger has five main components:

  • A turbine fan wheel
  • A compressor fan
  • A single shaft that each fan is mounted on
  • A bearing that supports the shaft
  • A housing

The exhaust gases that come through the turbocharger spin the turbine fan wheel to power the compressor fan wheel. Next, the compressor fan wheel compresses the intake air and then forces it into the engine.

This article elaborates on how turbochargers work if you want to read more about it: How Do Turbochargers Work?

What are Some of the Most Common Turbocharger Problems?

If you experience the symptoms of a failing turbocharger, it’s a good idea to identify the root cause before fixing the issue. The most common causes of turbocharger failure are:

  • Worn bearings
  • Debris buildup
  • Faulty seals

To learn more about each root cause, take a look at this article: The 3 Most Common Turbocharger Problems

Are OEM Turbochargers Better Than Aftermarket Turbochargers?

Image Credit: FourWheeler.com

The answer to this question is a resounding YES. Aftermarket turbochargers are marketed as advanced and durable. But they actually can cause a few issues, including:

  • Less “charged” air
  • Miscommunication with the ECU
  • Early failure

This article dives into each issue: Are Ford OEM Turbochargers Better Than Aftermarket?

The bottom line is that it’s much easier and safer to get an OEM turbocharger made specifically for your Ford model. You can order one at a wholesale price here. You can also see if there’s a turbocharger for your Ford model in this list of bestsellers:

  • Part No. AA5Z-6K682-E: For 2015-2018 Explorer, Flex, Taurus, MKS, and MKT models
  • Part No. AA5Z-6K682-F: For 2015-2018 Explorer, Flex, Taurus, MKS, and MKT models
  • Part No. CB5Z-6K682-H: For 2012-2015 Edge and Explorer models
  • Part No. CJ5Z-6K682-F: For 2015-2018 Escape, Focus, Fusion, Taurus, MKC, MKT, and MKZ models

How to Replace a Turbocharger in a Ford

You can save a lot of money by ordering an OEM turbocharger at wholesale pricing and then replacing the bad turbocharger yourself. First, you need to gain access to the turbo(s). This will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Then, remove any coolant tubes and oil lines connected to the turbocharger, and remove the old turbocharger. Then install the new turbocharger.

You'll find a detailed list of steps in this tutorial for replacing a turbocharger in an Explorer: 15 Steps to Replacing a Turbocharger in a Ford Explorer

Got any more questions that were not addressed in this guide? Please reach out to us. We'll be happy to chat with you!