A reconditioned turbo is a used turbocharger that has been fully stripped, inspected and rebuilt — bearings, piston rings, seals and the central cartridge all replaced — before being balanced and validated. It is not a cleaned second-hand part: it is a unit restored to a functional condition equivalent to a new part, at a significantly lower price than a manufacturer-new turbo.
- A reconditioned turbo is not a second-hand part: all internal wear components are replaced during a proper reconditioning process.
- The exchange scheme requires you to return your old turbo after the new one has been fitted — no deposit to pay upfront, and collection is included in the delivery charge.
- 12-month parts warranty, subject to fitting by a professional — identical to the warranty offered on new turbos at EDEN BOITES.
- Long-term reliability depends above all on addressing the root cause of the original failure: lubrication, intake and exhaust must all be checked before refitting.
- The reconditioned range is more limited than the new range; if your reference is not available, a compatible new turbo will be offered.
- Identify your turbo by its number plate, VIN or the reference stamped on the housing to ensure you order the correct part.
Examples of reconditioned turbos available
View all turbos by make and model
What exactly is a reconditioned turbo?
The term "reconditioned" is often misused to describe a part that has simply been cleaned and resold. A genuine reconditioning is a structured industrial process that starts with a used turbo and results in a unit whose functional characteristics — clearances, balance, sealing — are restored to original tolerances.
In practice, a turbocharger consists of three sub-assemblies: the turbine (exhaust side), the compressor wheel (intake side) and the central cartridge, also known as the CHRA (Center Housing Rotating Assembly). The CHRA is where the critical wear components are found: plain or rolling-element bearings, piston ring seals, gaskets. This is where the bulk of the work is concentrated in a proper reconditioning.
What a proper reconditioning requires: the essential steps
Not all reconditioning is equal. Here is the minimum standard to expect — and to verify — before buying a reconditioned turbo.
1. Full strip-down and housing inspection
The turbo must be completely dismantled. The turbine and compressor housings are inspected for cracks, distortion or corrosion. A cracked housing cannot be compensated for by a new CHRA: the unit would be condemned from the moment it was reassembled.
2. Replacement of the central cartridge or its wear components
This is the heart of the operation. Depending on the condition of the CHRA, either the entire assembly is replaced with a new CHRA, or the bearings, piston rings and seals are replaced individually. The axial and radial shaft clearances are measured and brought back to manufacturer specifications. Excessive clearance causes metal-to-metal contact at very high speeds — commonly over 100,000 rpm — and leads to failure within minutes.
3. Dynamic balancing of the rotating assembly
Once assembled, the rotating assembly (shaft + turbine wheel + compressor wheel) is dynamically balanced on a dedicated rig. Even a tiny residual imbalance, imperceptible to the naked eye, generates destructive vibrations at high speed and degrades the new bearings within a few thousand kilometres.
4. Inspection and adjustment of the variable geometry or wastegate
Turbos with variable geometry (VGT/VNT) — very common on modern diesel engines — use movable vanes to regulate exhaust gas flow. These vanes become coked and seize. A proper reconditioning includes cleaning, freeing and checking each vane, as well as adjusting the actuator (pneumatic or electronic). On wastegate turbos, the boost capsule and valve are checked and replaced if necessary. A poorly adjusted actuator will trigger OBD fault codes P0299 (insufficient boost pressure) or P0234 (excessive boost pressure) within the first few kilometres.
Reconditioned, repaired, second-hand, new: what are the real differences?
The market offers four options for replacing a failed turbo. The table below sets out the objective differences between them.
| Criterion | New turbo | Reconditioned turbo | Second-hand turbo | On-vehicle repair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Condition of internal components | All new, factory tolerances | Wear components replaced, clearances restored to original tolerances, dynamic balancing performed | Unknown wear, unknown history — no wear components replaced | Variable depending on the repair carried out; often partial (seals only) |
| Typical warranty | 12-month parts warranty at EDEN BOITES (professional fitting required) | 12-month parts warranty at EDEN BOITES (professional fitting required) | Generally very limited or non-existent from breakers' yards | Depends on the repairer; often short and limited to the work carried out |
| Main risks | Higher price than reconditioned | Reliability depends on addressing the root cause of the original failure | High risk of rapid re-failure; no traceability | Limited effectiveness if the root cause is not addressed; unpredictable outcome |
| Ideal use case | Reference not available in reconditioned; recent vehicle or intensive commercial use | Standard vehicle out of manufacturer warranty, controlled budget, reference available, root cause addressed | Temporary stopgap only — not recommended as a lasting solution | Recent turbo, isolated minor damage, full assessment carried out |
For more on the new option, see our dedicated article: new turbo — correct reference and fitting without failure.
Is a reconditioned turbo genuinely reliable?
Yes, subject to one critical condition: the root cause of the original failure must be identified and addressed before refitting. A turbo never fails without reason. The 3 most common causes are:
- Lubrication failure: degraded oil, blocked circuit, or too long a delay before oil pressure builds at start-up. The CHRA bearings operate on an oil film; any interruption, however brief, causes catastrophic wear.
- Foreign object on the intake side: a faulty air filter or a cracked hose allows particles to enter and damage the compressor wheel. Even a new turbo cannot withstand an ingested foreign object.
- Back-pressure on the exhaust side: a blocked diesel particulate filter (DPF) or a damaged catalytic converter raises exhaust gas temperatures well beyond design limits, degrading the seals and bearings.
If these issues are not resolved, a reconditioned — or new — turbo will suffer the same fate as its predecessor. To diagnose the cause of a loss of power or an engine warning light, our article diagnosing power loss: turbo, injection or gearbox guides you through the process step by step.
Why exchange, and how does it work at EDEN BOITES?
The exchange scheme is the business model that makes reconditioning viable: your old turbo — even in poor condition — provides the physical basis for the next reconditioned unit. It is a concrete circular economy approach: the housings, which are often still sound, are reused; only the wear components are replaced. The result is a price significantly lower than a new turbo, with no compromise on the quality of the internal components.
For a full explanation of how it works, our complete exchange guide covers the principles as applied to reconditioned mechanical parts.
How it works in practice at EDEN BOITES
- You order your reconditioned turbo online or via a personalised quote.
- Your reconditioned turbo is delivered. No deposit is required upfront.
- A professional fits the turbo to your vehicle.
- Your old turbo is collected after delivery and fitting — your vehicle is not held up waiting for collection. Collection is included in the delivery charge.
This process protects your mobility: you only return the old turbo once the new one is fitted and the vehicle is back on the road.
How do I identify the correct turbo reference?
Ordering a reconditioned turbo without verifying exact compatibility is the most common source of error. Several identifiers can be used to find the correct reference.
The reference stamped on the housing
Every turbo carries a stamped or engraved reference on its central housing (CHRA). This is the most reliable identifier, as it corresponds exactly to the turbo fitted to your vehicle, regardless of any series updates. On EDEN BOITES product pages, the main reference appears in the title and equivalent references are listed to help you cross-check.
The engine code
The engine code is essential for vehicles where the same model was fitted with several closely related engines. For example, a Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDI may have engine code CUSA, CUSB or CYZB — each corresponding to a different power output (75, 90 or 105 hp) and a distinct Volkswagen Polo turbo. The engine code can be found on the registration document (box P.5) or directly on the engine block.
The number plate or VIN
If you have neither the turbo reference nor the engine code, your number plate or VIN (17 characters, found on the windscreen or registration document) allows EDEN BOITES to identify the exact reference via the online quote form. A quote will be returned to you within a few hours.
Examples of reconditioned turbos available at EDEN BOITES
The table below shows a selection of available reconditioned references, with their engine codes and compatibility references.
| Make | Model | Engine | Engine code | Main reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford | Focus | 1.8 TDDi 90 hp | C9DA, C9DB, C9DC | 452244 |
| IVECO | Daily | 3.0 D 205 hp | F1CE3481C, F1CE3481K | 10009880182 |
| Volvo | S60 | 2.4 D5 | D5244T10, D5244T11, D5244T15 | 10009880017 |
| Audi | A1 | 1.4 TDI 90 hp | CUSA, CUSB | 16309880003 |
| Volkswagen | Polo | 1.4 TDI 75 / 90 / 105 hp | CUSA, CUSB, CYZB | 16309880003 |
| Dacia | Duster | 1.0 TCe 90 / 100 / 101 LPG | H4D | 16319880063 |
| BMW | Série 3 | 335i, 335xi | N54 B30 A, N54 B30 B, N55 B30 A | 49131-07171 |
| Mitsubishi | Pajero | 2.8 TD | 4M40 | 49135-03200 |
| Fiat | Ducato | 2.3 Multijet 111 to 131 hp | F1AE0481D, F1AE3481D, F1AGL411D… | 49135-05134 |
Browse all available references in our turbo catalogue, organised by make: Renault turbo, Peugeot turbo, Citroën turbo, Mercedes turbo, BMW turbo, Audi turbo, Volkswagen turbo, Ford turbo.
→ Get a quote for my reconditioned turbo
When should you choose a new turbo over a reconditioned one?
The reconditioned turbo range is more limited than the new range. Certain references — very recent engines, or market volumes too low to sustain a viable reconditioning supply chain — are only available new. In such cases, EDEN BOITES will generally offer a compatible new turbo, covered by the same 12-month parts warranty and subject to the same fitting requirements.
A new turbo is also the right choice for commercial vehicles in intensive use, where the additional safety margin of an entirely new part may justify the extra cost. Our article new turbo — correct reference and fitting without failure covers the selection criteria and fitting precautions, which apply regardless of which option you choose.
The mistakes that destroy a reconditioned turbo during fitting
A quality reconditioned turbo can be put out of action within hours if fitting is carried out incorrectly. Here is the checklist of critical points that must be followed without exception.
- Drain and replace the engine oil before fitting. Metal particles from the failed turbo contaminate the lubrication circuit and will destroy the new bearings.
- Replace the oil filter at the same time as the oil. A filter saturated with debris will no longer trap any particles.
- Flush and inspect the turbo oil feed pipe (return and feed hoses). A blocked or kinked pipe will starve the CHRA of lubrication from the very first start.
- Pre-lubricate the turbo before the first start: inject clean oil into the feed union and turn the shaft by hand so that the bearings are in an oil film from the moment the engine fires.
- Allow the engine to idle for two to three minutes before any load is applied. Do not rev the engine hard during the first few minutes.
- Check the entire intake system (air filter, hoses, mass airflow sensor) to eliminate any source of foreign objects or unmeasured air leaks.
- Inspect the DPF and catalytic converter: a blocked DPF must be regenerated or replaced before refitting the turbo.
- Check the intercooler: if the turbo failed with oil contamination, the intercooler will be contaminated and must be cleaned or replaced — otherwise the oil will be re-ingested and destroy the new turbo.
- Have the turbo fitted by a professional: this is a condition of the EDEN BOITES 12-month warranty, and the only way to ensure all of the above points are properly observed.
What warranty applies to a reconditioned turbo from EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES provides a 12-month parts warranty on all reconditioned turbos, identical to that offered on new turbos. This warranty covers the part itself and is conditional on fitting being carried out by a professional. Keep the fitting invoice: it serves as proof of professional fitting in the event of a claim.
To read feedback from our customers, visit our customer reviews page.
Frequently asked questions
Is a reconditioned turbo less reliable than a new one?
No, provided the reconditioning is complete (replacement of the CHRA or its wear components, dynamic balancing, inspection of the variable geometry or wastegate) and the root cause of the original failure has been addressed before refitting. A new turbo fitted without treating the root cause will suffer the same fate as a reconditioned one — and vice versa. The quality of the fitting is just as important as the quality of the part.
How long does a reconditioned turbo last?
A reconditioned turbo that is correctly fitted and maintained — oil changed regularly, warm-up procedure observed, engine not switched off abruptly after hard use — can last just as long as a new turbo. The service life of a turbocharger depends above all on operating conditions and lubrication maintenance, not on whether the part is new or reconditioned.
Do I need to pay a deposit for the exchange?
No. At EDEN BOITES, no deposit is required upfront. You receive the reconditioned turbo, a professional fits it, and the old turbo is collected after fitting. Collection is included in the delivery charge. You are never in the position of having your vehicle off the road waiting for collection.
How can I be sure the reconditioned turbo is compatible with my vehicle?
Use the reference stamped on your old turbo, the engine code (found on the registration document in box P.5 or directly on the engine block), or your VIN. On EDEN BOITES product pages, the main reference and equivalent references allow you to confirm compatibility. If in doubt, the online quote form will get you a confirmed answer within a few hours.
Is a reconditioned turbo significantly cheaper than a new one?
Yes, considerably so. The price of a reconditioned turbo is significantly lower than that of a new one, because the exchange model allows the existing housings to be reused and only the internal wear components to be replaced. The exact price is shown on each product page in the EDEN BOITES catalogue — no generic price range is meaningful, as each reference has its own market.
What happens if my reference is not available in reconditioned?
The reconditioned range is more limited than the new range. If your reference is not available, EDEN BOITES will offer you a compatible new turbo, covered by the same 12-month parts warranty and subject to the same fitting requirements. Browse all our available turbos or submit a quote request for us to check availability.
Which OBD fault codes are associated with a failing turbo?
The most common codes are P0299 (insufficient boost pressure) and P0234 (excessive boost pressure). P0299 may indicate an air leak (cracked hose), seized variable geometry vanes, a faulty actuator or a turbo nearing the end of its life. P0234 often points to a poorly adjusted actuator or a wastegate stuck closed. These codes guide the diagnosis but do not on their own identify the faulty component.
Is payment in instalments available?
Yes. EDEN BOITES offers payment in up to 10 instalments. Full details are provided at checkout.
Can garages and trade customers order reconditioned turbos?
Yes. EDEN BOITES has a dedicated offer for trade customers. Garages can submit their requests via the trade quote page to receive a quote tailored to their business.
Should the oil be changed after fitting a reconditioned turbo?
The oil and filter must be changed before fitting, not after. Metal debris from the failed turbo circulates through the lubrication circuit and will immediately contaminate a new CHRA if the oil is not flushed beforehand. Some technicians recommend a second oil change after a few hundred kilometres to remove any remaining residual particles.
- A reconditioned turbo is a unit rebuilt in its wear components — not a cleaned second-hand part — and carries a 12-month parts warranty at EDEN BOITES.
- The exchange scheme requires no deposit upfront: the old turbo is collected after the new one has been fitted, with collection included in the delivery charge.
- Long-term reliability depends as much on addressing the root cause as on the quality of the part itself: lubrication, intake and exhaust back-pressure must all be checked before any refitting.
- If your reference is not available in reconditioned, a compatible new turbo is offered — same warranty, same professional fitting requirement.
To place an order, have your number plate, VIN or the reference stamped on your turbo to hand and submit your request using the form below. A quote will be returned to you within a few hours.
→ Request my reconditioned turbo quote
Are you a garage or automotive trade professional? Access our dedicated offer on the trade quote page.
