Wastegate

nounStandard termAutomotive

A pneumatic or electronic valve that limits turbocharger boost pressure by bypassing exhaust gases.

A critical control valve in turbocharged engines that diverts exhaust gas away from the turbine wheel. By regulating how much exhaust drives the turbine, it dictates the maximum boost pressure delivered to the intake manifold. If this valve sticks closed, the turbo will overspeed and create massive boost spikes, often destroying the engine internals through severe detonation.

Heard on the job

The customer is complaining about low power, so check if the wastegate actuator is stuck open.

Insider tip

A rattling sound from the turbo area on deceleration is a classic sign of a loose wastegate flapper valve.