Is your Porsche experiencing a drop in power or is it running hot on the road? Could it be a problem with the intercooler? We’ll find out shortly! The intercooler is one of the most important components of a Porsche that is fitted with a turbocharged engine. But if it fails, you will see some very obvious signs in the performance of your vehicle that cannot go unnoticed. Now let’s look at the simple ways you can diagnose intercooler failure and things that can be done to fix it.
What Does the Intercooler Do?
Intercooler is a component that cools the compressed air that has been compressed by the turbocharger before it is introduced in the engine. When air is compressed in the turbocharger it is usually hot and when the air is hot it has the tendency of lowering the efficiency of an engine. The intercooler then cools this air to provide your engine with cool dense air which improves both performance and efficiency of fuel. If the intercooler is not effectively functioning then the engine may heat, have less power, or even get damaged if not attended.
Diagnosing Porsche Intercooler Failure
- Listen for Unusual Sounds: When driving, there might be unusual sounds such as hissing or whistling most especially during acceleration. These sounds normally mean that air is escaping which might be due to bad intercooler fins, leaking hoses, or loose connections.
- Monitor Engine Performance: The failure of an intercooler has a negative impact on the performance of a given engine. Common symptoms that should alert you include; slow acceleration and less power. The symptoms usually suggest that the engine is being cooled inefficiently and hot air is entering the engine.
- Check the Turbocharger System: Intercooler works hand in hand with the turbocharger. The intercooler’s functionality may be affected depending on how the turbocharger performs, or if it is leaking. Check the whole system to ensure no other issues are present.
- Look for Diagnostic Error Codes: Intercooler problems can be identified by the onboard diagnostic systems in modern Porsche models. Error codes linked to turbochargers or intercoolers can be retrieved using a scanner. These codes can help to pinpoint just what the problem is.
How You Can Resolve Intercooler Problems
- Repair Minor Leaks or Cracks: For minor cracks or leaks, you can use sealants or epoxy to seal the area until you are able to repair the damages in a more permanent manner. But this should be done with caution because the problems might surface later and larger in scale.
- Replace Damaged Components: The only way to handle severe damage is to replace the intercooler. Choose an original spare part that will fit your car model and be of good quality to avoid having to repair it soon after buying it.
- Clean the Intercooler: Intercooler fins are prone to the formation of debris that hinders proper airflow over a certain period of time. To clean the fins make sure you use compressed air or a soft brush when cleaning. Do not use high-pressure water because the fins of the heat exchanger are easily bent or damaged.
- Replace Worn Hoses: The hoses linked to the intercooler are very important so as to have a closed system. Check them for cracks, leaks, or wear, and if you find any of them faulty get them replaced to minimize chances of air or fluid leakage.
- Perform Regular Maintenance: Avoid being caught off guard by some of these problems by keeping to the recommended maintenance schedule of your Porsche.
What’s So Great About Visiting Integrity Motorcar?
As a luxury European vehicle maintenance and repair shop, Integrity Motorcar in Yorba Linda, CA can handle all your Porsche needs. Our team of experienced technicians has what it takes to diagnose and fix intercooler problems. All of our parts are high quality and we follow Porsche’s strict standards so your car performs the way it should. We can do a simple repair or a full turbo replacement, but either way, we’ll have your Porsche back on the road in no time.
Our experts have been catering to European vehicles for drivers in neighboring areas such as Brea, Fullerton, Tustin, and Anaheim Hills, CA. If you’re having problems, give the pros at Integrity Motorcar a call, and we’ll have your intercooler diagnosed and fixed fast. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment!
* White Porsche 911 Turbo S Car image credit goes to: Brandon Woyshnis.