Volvo Repair: 2001 S40 turbo, wastegate actuator, turbo charger

Question
hey-

I have recently purchased a 2001S40 with about 60k on the
odometer.  Good condition.  Recently, however, I've noticed a lag in
its performance- the engine sounds louder to produce the same
rpms as before.    I suspect the turbocharger.. how do I determine
if it's not working properly?

Thanks kindly,
Shannon

Answer
To check the turbo you're going to have to have 2 people. someone go inside the car and and put the car in REVERSE NOT DRIVE, and press the brake extremely hard, and then floor the gas and hold it there.  If the car starts moving hold the brake harder.  The rpm's will go up to mid range and then stay there.  Then while one person is doing that have the person outside the car look over the engine and look at the turbo charger.  You should be able to see the wastegate actuator moving as it reaches boost levels.  It won't open under 10psi so if it moves its boosting.  Don't do this in drive for safety of the person looking at the turbo.  Also you may have to remove the heat shield before you do this to get a better view, its just three bolts holding it on.  Don't even attempt to remove it if you've run the engine at all, it will be very hot.  If it isn't boosting take it to the dealership so that they can check the computer to see if you have a turbo control problem, or internal turbo failure.  You should be able to hear the turbo hiss while driving when you get into full load conditions also.  Hope that helps.

James