loud engine and smoke before turbo engages

2003 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

176 MILES • 1.9L • 4 CYL • TURBO • FWD • MANUAL

SKYJUMPER

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After shifting into a new gear or slowing down below 2,000 rpm, as I get to the 2,000 rpm mark the engine makes a very very loud noise that sounds like a diesel but far too loud, a lot more smoke is emitted from the muffler. Don't notice a decrease in power or anything like that and as soon as I hit about 2300 rpm the turbo engages and the engine again sounds normal. I ran a scanner on it and it came back with p0401 and p0103, mass air flow and exhaust gas recirculation flow low.

Any idea I'd one of those issues could be the culprit or would it be turbo or something else? Thanks in advance

Jun 17, 2015 at 4:59 PM

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53,854 POSTS

Hello Skyjumper,

Yep a classic turbo worn out problem, we had one in the shop the other day did the same thing, best thing to do is check the turbo which is easy once its removed, or enough to access the turbine inside the turbo, with your finger check the end play of the shaft, if it has play, the turbo is worn out and needs replacement,

The smoke is caused by engine oil leaking through the turbo shaft seal.

Please let me know what you find, thanks for using 2CarPros.com

Best, Ken Lavacot

Jun 17, 2015 at 7:36 PM

SKYJUMPER

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Okay, I have no experience with turbo or diesels and it was only doing it under load and not in neutral or going through gears on jack stands So I wasn't sure.

Jun 17, 2015 at 9:30 PM

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53,854 POSTS

Hi Skyjumper,

Hmmm,, didn't know it was a diesel so that changes the game, the p0401 is low EGR flow which could mean the exhaust is pulled, or the valve is stuck open, I would till like to inspect the turbo first to make sure it okay before continuing, we need to make sure its in good working order so we don't chase our tails.

Let me know. I want to get this fixed for you.

Best, Ken

Jun 18, 2015 at 9:16 AM