If your turbocharger has given up and you need a replacement, the next question is straightforward: which type should you buy? A quick search will throw up terms like remanufactured, reconditioned, new, and new OEM. These are not just different price points. They describe how the turbo was made or restored, and understanding the difference helps you make the right call for your car and your budget.
The Four Types of Turbocharger Explained
New OEM
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. A new OEM turbo is made by the same manufacturer that supplied the unit for your car when it left the factory. It meets the exact specification your vehicle was designed around.
These are typically the most expensive option and are not always easy to source, particularly for older or less common vehicles. That said, if you want a like-for-like replacement with full manufacturer backing, this is it.
New (Aftermarket)
A new aftermarket turbo is a brand-new unit made by a third-party manufacturer rather than the original supplier. Quality varies across the aftermarket, so it pays to buy from a reputable source.
New aftermarket turbos are often more widely available than OEM parts and can offer good value, especially for vehicles where OEM units are discontinued or hard to find.
Remanufactured
A remanufactured turbo is a used unit that has been completely stripped down, rebuilt, and restored to a like-new condition. The process involves:
- Full disassembly and inspection
- Replacement of worn or damaged components with new parts
- Reassembly to manufacturer tolerances
- Testing to confirm performance before sale
Remanufacturing is a thorough process. The end result is a turbo that performs to the same standard as a new unit, at a lower price point, and with a significantly reduced environmental footprint compared to manufacturing from scratch.
Reconditioned
Reconditioned turbos follow a similar process to remanufactured ones, though the terminology is sometimes used slightly differently across the industry. In general, a reconditioned turbo has been inspected, repaired where needed, cleaned, and tested.
The key thing to look for with any reconditioned unit is that it has been properly inspected and comes with a warranty. A quality reconditioned turbo is a sound investment and performs reliably when the work behind it has been done properly.
So Which Type Should You Choose?
There is no single right answer. The best option depends on a few practical factors.
Consider a new OEM turbo if:
- Your vehicle is still under warranty or a manufacturer service plan
- You want the exact original specification and have the budget for it
Consider a new aftermarket turbo if:
- The OEM unit is unavailable or discontinued
- You want a new unit at a more accessible price
Consider a remanufactured or reconditioned turbo if:
- You want a quality replacement without paying new prices
- Your vehicle is older and a full OEM replacement is hard to justify on cost
- You prefer a more sustainable option
What About Compatibility?
Whatever type you go for, getting the right turbo for your specific vehicle is non-negotiable. Turbos are matched to engine displacement, fuel type, boost requirements, and mounting configuration. Always check compatibility before buying, or speak to a specialist who can confirm the correct unit for your make, model, and year.
Does the Warranty Matter?
Yes. A warranty gives you peace of mind and tells you a lot about the confidence a supplier has in their product. Look for a supplier that stands behind every type of turbo they sell, not just the new ones.
The Bottom Line
Remanufactured, reconditioned, new, and new OEM turbos all have their place. What matters most is that the unit you buy is properly made or restored, correctly matched to your vehicle, and backed by a supplier you can trust.
The type of turbo is a practical decision. The quality of the turbo is what counts.
