Turbo lag: you know the feeling even if you don’t know its name. It’s those few seconds between pressing the accelerator and getting power. It takes time for pressure to build up in the exhaust system so that it can spin the turbo’s turbine. At that point, the engine gets more air and fuel, which leads to a satisfying jump and boost of power and torque. While turbo lag doesn’t mean your truck is in bad shape, you might feel like you have to do something to “fix” it. Here are a few methods to get rid of diesel engine turbo lag.

Replace the Air Filter

Some mechanics recommend not just changing but completely replacing the air filter with a cartridge-style model. This change improves airflow and filtration with a greater capacity. When an engine can “breathe,” it has fewer issues overall, especially less turbo lag. Stay on top of air filter changes, discarding and replacing used filters before they become clogged.

Improve the Fuel System

This might take a little more knowledge and DIYing. Replacing the fuel pumps and injectors with more efficient models helps with the combustion process. The vehicle experiences less turbo lag as a result because the injectors improve fuel delivery. A better fuel pump boosts the pressure, and power increases with less lag.

New Turbocharger, Less Lag

This one is a little obvious, but if the turbocharger isn’t up to snuff, give it the heave-ho. Speak with your mechanic about the best brand for your needs. Twin-scroll turbos are popular because they have two inlets versus the standard single inlet, doubling the ability to deliver more air and fuel and less time waiting for the boost.

Add Nitrous Oxide

You’ve seen this one in the movies. The protagonist needs a burst of power to escape the baddies, so they flick a switch and engage the nitrous oxide for a comically large boost. Nitrous oxide makes an engine work faster—by some accounts, up to four times more! However, if you don’t have the right fuel-to-air ratio, it can literally backfire and blow your engine.

Take Care of Your Truck

Another method to get rid of diesel engine turbo lag is to keep doing what you’ve (hopefully) been doing: Take care of your truck. Periodic oil changes, maintaining fuel levels, keeping the tires inflated, and washing the exterior can help your truck operate efficiently, which puts less pressure on the engine and turbocharger.

Have any questions about combatting turbo lag, adding a Ford 6.0 Powerstroke turbo (or other brand, or generally upgrading your vehicle’s performance? Contact us for a consultation today.