My Volvo S40 1.9T 2002 has check engine light has been on for almost 2 yrs. Checked the OBD codes and got three codes:
P0237
P0171
P0131
I was told by my mechanic (a mobile mechanic, not a Volvo specialist) that the car needs a new Turbo charger.


My questions:
a) Is the diagnosis correct?
b) If so, as it's an old car, can I try to get a Turbo charger from the junk yard, used from eBay, or should I only buy new?
c) If new after market OK or should I buy OEM?
d) What should be the typical labor charge for installing the Turbo charger be?


Thanks, greatly appreciate your feedback!

 

Not sure how to conclude you need a new turbo as your codes point to your mixture is too lean and your boost controller signal is out of range. The typical start for these codes is to check/clean the MAF and then check voltages on the boost sensor. If your codes have been on for two years, I'd start by clearing the codes and see which reset. For the lean mix problem, check the MAF, intake air tubing, vacuum lines etc. If the boost sensor code returns, I'd swap it out for a new one. As far as a turbo going bad, typically they develop seal issues - ie oil leaks etc - if your turbo totally failed you'd notice a change in driveability. Maybe he saw some leaking etc from the turbo itself, which can often be the return line gasket making a mess and not the turbo itself. Just the same, you can check out some vids on youtube to see how a turbo gets rebuilt...