Description

This is a fully reconditioned Garrett GT17V turbocharger for the Audi A3 1.9 TDI (105HP) models produced between 2003 and 2010. It serves as a direct, OE-quality replacement for original part numbers including 713672-5006s and 03G253016N, built to precise manufacturer specifications in our Birmingham workshop.

The Garrett GT17V is a Variable Nozzle Turbine (VNT) unit, which uses adjustable internal vanes to control exhaust gas flow, optimising boost pressure across the engine’s entire rev range. This technology provides excellent engine response and efficiency, but it is also the unit’s most common failure point. The primary issue we encounter with these turbochargers is the seizure of the VNT mechanism. This is caused by an accumulation of carbon and soot from the exhaust gas, which restricts the movement of the delicate vanes. This problem is often accelerated by a faulty or clogged EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve or a driving style consisting of mainly short, low-speed journeys where the engine does not reach optimal temperature to burn off deposits. When the vanes stick, the turbo can either fail to produce enough boost, resulting in sluggish performance and poor fuel economy, or it can produce too much boost, triggering an engine fault code (e.g., P0234 Overboost Condition) and forcing the vehicle into a reduced power ‘limp mode’. Other potential failures include wear to the central bearing housing (CHRA) caused by contaminated, incorrect, or low-level engine oil, leading to excessive noise and eventual catastrophic failure.

What this turbocharger fits

This reconditioned turbocharger is specifically intended for the 1.9 TDI diesel engine found in the Audi A3 (8P chassis) platform. It is compatible with engine codes BXE and BLS (105 HP), which were widely used from 2003 through to 2010. We strongly advise you to verify the part number on your vehicle’s existing turbocharger data plate or contact our technical team with your vehicle’s registration number to ensure 100% correct fitment before ordering.

At Gap Turbos, this unit has been completely disassembled, ultrasonically cleaned, and inspected against original equipment specifications. The core assembly (CHRA) is replaced or rebuilt with new bearings and seals before being precision balanced on VSR machinery to speeds exceeding 150,000 RPM. The VNT mechanism is re-calibrated to ensure correct boost delivery. We can supply this unit on an exchange basis, or you can use our in-house fitting service here in Birmingham. We also recommend cleaning the intercooler, intake manifold, and EGR system when fitting a replacement turbo to address the root cause of the original failure.

For a firm quote and to discuss our comprehensive warranty, please contact our technical team directly.

Specifications

Vehicle fitment

• Audi A3 1.9 TDI

Common faults & troubleshooting

• Sudden loss of power (‘limp mode’): Often triggered during acceleration or uphill driving, this is a classic symptom of the VNT vanes sticking, causing an overboost fault code.
• Excessive black smoke from exhaust: Can indicate a boost leak in the pipework between the turbo and the engine, or a turbo that is not producing sufficient boost.
• Loud whistling or siren-like noise: This noise, which rises with engine RPM, points towards worn bearings or a damaged compressor wheel making contact with the housing.
• Poor overall performance and fuel economy: If the VNT vanes are stuck in the ‘open’ position, the turbo will fail to build sufficient boost at low RPMs, making the car feel sluggish.
• Blue smoke, especially on start-up: This indicates failed oil seals within the turbo’s core assembly (CHRA), allowing engine oil to leak into the exhaust system and burn off.

Fitting notes for this unit

• Prime the Turbo: Before connecting the oil feed line, use a syringe to squirt fresh, correct-grade engine oil directly into the turbo’s oil inlet port until it is full. This ensures immediate lubrication on first start-up.
• Replace Oil Feed Pipe: It is mandatory to replace the oil feed pipe and banjo bolts. The original pipe can become restricted with carbonised oil, which will starve the new turbo and cause premature failure.
• Crank Without Starting: After fitting, disable the engine from starting (e.g., by pulling the fuel pump fuse) and crank it for 15-20 seconds. This allows the oil pump to build full pressure and circulate oil through the new turbo and feed pipe before it spins at high speed.
• Check EGR System: Before fitting, inspect the EGR valve and intake manifold for heavy carbon build-up. A clogged EGR is a primary cause of VNT failure on these engines; clean or replace as necessary.
• Inspect Boost Hoses: Carefully check all boost hoses for splits, perishing, or internal delamination. A small leak will cause performance issues and can make the new turbo over-speed.
• Torque Settings: Ensure the manifold nuts and exhaust downpipe bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings using new gaskets and nuts to prevent exhaust leaks.

Alternative part numbers

This turbo is also referenced by:

• 03G253016N — Audi Turbocharger OEM 03G253016N (Audi A3 1.9 TDI, BXE/BLS, 105hp)

Frequently asked questions