When driving around 120/140 kmph and applying max gas, normally the force/torque can be really felt from the turbo. However sometimes its just not there / no extra pull, also the consumption meter doesn't go up, its like the fuel control doesn't let it. What could be the reason of this?
In lower gears or at lower speed this is never an issue, this is specific / non-deterministic to higher gears / speed.
- model: e46 2004 BMW 320CD
- transmission: manual
- milage: 220k Km
- notes
- it has still the original turbo
- lambda sensor just got swapped
I know there could be a lot of reasons, however maybe someone also experience something like this or any starting points to look at would be appriciated!
Update after checking with my mechanic:
There were some error codes reported, he replaced the lambda sensor but he thinks the turbo control is setting wrong parameters for the turbo geometry. Gonna update again after a few days of experience.
Update after nearly a year:
The problem didn't resurface, however we've also disabled the EGR (according to my guy, this is customary for these models, because its design is flawed).
The torque feels perfect since, the only downside the "check-engine" lights because of the disabled EGR, downgrading the firmware to a model w/o EGR could be a solution for this but I don't like downgrading. (edit: I've received a contact who supposedly can disable this alert from the firmware, gonna update after)
Update after nearly two years:
The problem resurfaced later on last summer (turns out for proper reproduction hot weather was also necessary) so I've scheduled some extra checks.
Turns out there was a leakage on my intercooler. Also the cooling grid had lots of pollution.
After fixing those issues + a long/hot summer testing I feel finally stable/strong performance from my e46.