Turbocharger Core Exchange Programs: How They Work and What to Expect

When a turbocharger fails and the vehicle needs to be back in service quickly, a core exchange program is often the fastest and most cost-effective option. PT Turbo has operated an exchange program since the 1980s. Here is exactly how it works and what you can expect.

What a Core Exchange Program Is

In a core exchange, the supplier ships you a pre-rebuilt turbocharger unit from inventory before receiving your failed unit. You install the rebuilt unit, then return the failed core within an agreed timeframe (typically 30 days). The core deposit—a refundable charge added to the purchase price—is returned when the failed core arrives in rebuildable condition.

This model works because turbocharger cores—the failed units—have significant value. Most of the metal in a failed turbocharger is perfectly serviceable: the housings, the compressor wheel if undamaged, and structural components. Only the bearings, seals, and sometimes the turbine wheel need replacement. When we receive your failed core, we rebuild it and it becomes part of the inventory for the next customer’s exchange.

The Core Charge Explained

The core charge is not a fee—it is a deposit that you receive back. The amount varies by application:

• Light-duty diesel truck turbos (RAM, Duramax, Powerstroke): $100–$300 core deposit
• Commercial truck turbos (ISX, MX-13, DD15): $200–$500 core deposit
• High-value performance or rare turbos: varies—call for pricing

The deposit is refunded when the failed core arrives and passes a rebuildability inspection. Cores with catastrophic housing damage, missing components, or severe corrosion may be assessed a partial return or refused.

What Qualifies as a Rebuildable Core

A core is rebuildable when:

• The turbine and compressor housings are free of cracks and major erosion
• The center section housing is intact and the bearing bores are not scored beyond rebuildable limits
• The turbo arrives with all mounting hardware and oil fitting locations intact
• The unit has not been cut open or disassembled in a way that compromises the housings

Turbos with disintegrated compressor wheels that have damaged the housing, or with turbine housing cracks from overheating, may not qualify for full core credit.

Shipping Your Failed Core

After installation, drain the failed turbo of residual oil, bag the oil ports, and ship it back in the original packaging from the replacement unit. We provide a prepaid return label for most domestic exchange orders.

PT Turbo’s exchange program covers all major diesel platforms—light duty, commercial, and performance applications. Call (909) 824-1020 to confirm availability for your specific turbo, or visit our online store. Same-day and next-day shipping available on most units. Contact us here.

Shop PT Turbo: Browse our remanufactured turbocharger catalog and our turbocharger rebuild kit catalog — OEM-spec replacements with a 12-month, unlimited-mile warranty. In-stock units available for same-day shipping.

Further Reading

• OEM vs Remanufactured Turbocharger: Which Is Better?
• Turbocharger Rebuild vs Replace: What’s the Right Call?
• How to Spot a Counterfeit Turbocharger Before You Buy
• Inside a Professional Turbocharger Rebuild at PT Turbo
• Buying Turbocharger Parts Online: What to Know First

Further reading: Learn more about turbocharger technology.