If you own a 2013-2018 Buick Encore or a 2011-2018 Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic or Trax with the 1.4 L turbocharged engine, you already know how much performance and economy this compact turbo pulls off. But when your boost responsiveness fades, you spot smoke, or your vehicle just doesn’t feel right—you may be facing one of the most common failure points: the turbocharger.
The good news: replacing the turbo with the right kit can bring your engine back to life—restoring power, efficiency, and driving enjoyment. In this article we’ll walk U.S. drivers through:
- Why the 1.4 L turbo systems in these vehicles are so widely used
- The warning signs your turbo needs replacement
- How the Autoround Turbocharger + Gasket Kit delivers value
- What you need to know about installation, break-in and maintenance
- Why this is a smart investment for your American-market vehicle
Let’s dive in.
Why the 1.4 L Turbo in GM’s Small Cars Matters
The “Ecotec” 1.4 L turbocharged engine used in the Buick Encore and Chevy Cruze/Sonic/Trax family is designed to deliver an ideal balance of efficiency and performance for drivers. Here’s why this engine is so important:
- Compact yet responsive: The 1.4 L turbo gives reasonable horsepower and torque while maintaining better fuel economy than many larger naturally aspirated engines.
- Popular models: The Buick Encore (2013-2018) and the Chevrolet Cruze (2011-2018), Sonic (2011-2018), Trax (2013-2018) are widely sold in the U.S.—so finding aftermarket parts like turbochargers is practical and the demand is there.
- Turbocharged advantage: By using forced induction, the engine can generate more air per combustion cycle—this translates into better throttle response, especially important for U.S. freeway merging, mountain driving, towing light loads, etc.
Because of these advantages, the turbocharger remains a key component—and one that sees heavy use in U.S. driving conditions (stop-and-go traffic, high-heat climates, mountain grades, etc.). That means wear and tear is real and replacement is often the best way to restore performance.
Signs Your Turbocharger Needs Replacement
Before you invest in a new turbocharger kit, it’s vital to recognize the warning signs. If you catch them early, you can avoid collateral damage.
Here are the common symptoms drivers of GM 1.4 L turbo models report:
- Power loss or sluggish acceleration: Your Encore or Cruze no longer accelerates like it used to. Merging onto a highway feels labored.
- Whistling or siren-like noise: A high-pitch sound coming from the turbo area under boost. Indicates bearing wear or imbalance.
- Blue or grey smoke: From the exhaust—sign of oil leaking past turbo seals into the intake or exhaust.
- Black smoke or rich running: May mean boost pressure is lost and the engine is compensating with more fuel.
- Excessive oil consumption: The engine seems to ‘drink’ oil without visible leaks.
- Check Engine Light codes like P0299 (underboost): Indicates the turbo is not delivering required boost pressure.
- Engine running rough, fuel economy drops: All signs that something in the induction or boost system is compromised.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these, it’s time to consider turbocharger replacement. And that’s where a well-engineered kit comes in.
Why the Autoround Turbocharger + Gasket Kit is an Excellent Choice
When it comes to choosing the right replacement turbo, buyers want fitment certainty, quality materials, easy installation and peace of mind. Here’s how the Autoround kit delivers:
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the Buick Encore (2013-2018) and Chevy Cruze (2011-2018), Sonic (2011-2018), Trax (2013-2018) with 1.4 L L4 turbo engine.
- Complete Gasket Kit Included: The product isn’t just the turbo—it comes with the necessary gaskets (oil feed/return, exhaust manifold, turbo flange) to ensure proper sealing.
- High Quality Construction: Brand new (not reman), “OEM quality, made from premium materials and tested multiple times” according to the product description.
- Warranty: 3-year warranty on the part gives buyers confidence.
- U.S.-Friendly Service & Shipping: Free shipping, multiple U.S. warehouses, fast dispatch within 1 business day.
In short: if you’re driving one of those compatible models in the U.S. and need a turbo replacement that won’t break your budget, this kit ticks all the boxes.
Installation Tips for Drivers
While many owners opt for professional installation, some skilled DIYers tackle this themselves. Here are key pointers:
Verify Compatibility: Use the vehicle selector on the Autoround site and confirm engine code (e.g., A14NET) matches your car.
Prepare Before You Start:
- Drain engine oil & filter
- Drain coolant (if turbo is water-cooled)
- Clean intake and intercooler piping
- Check and clean oil feed lines; ensure oil return is clear
Remove Old Turbo Assembly:
- Disconnect battery
- Remove intake, downpipe, exhaust manifold bolts
- Remove oil and coolant lines carefully
- Clean mounting surfaces thoroughly
Install New Turbo + Gasket Kit:
- Place new gaskets provided in the kit
- Align turbo correctly, torque bolts to OEM specs
- Reconnect oil/coolant lines ensuring no leaks
- Re-install intake/intercooler piping
Add Fresh Engine Oil & Coolant: Use the correct spec oil and proper mix of coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool for GM vehicles)
Initial Start & Inspection:
- Start engine, idle for 2-3 minutes, check for oil/coolant leaks
- Verify boost behavior during a road test
Turbo Break-In: For the first ~300 miles, avoid full throttle, keep RPM moderate, and allow engine to idle before shutting off to protect the new turbo.
Maintenance Best Practices After Replacement
Replacing the turbo is the first step. To make it last, follow these-driver-oriented habits:
- Change oil regularly: Because turbo bearings run at very high speeds and temperatures, clean oil is critical. Consider changing every 3,000-5,000 miles, especially if you do lots of stop-and-go or highway driving.
- Warm up/cool down properly: Let your engine idle 30-60 seconds after start-up and again before shut-off, especially after highway driving.
- Check for intake/intercooler leaks: A leaking charge pipe reduces boost and makes the turbo work harder.
- Monitor oil consumption: If you begin to see increased oil use, check for possible turbo seal or bearing issues.
- Inspect the cooling system regularly: The turbo may share coolant pathways; low coolant or overheating stresses the unit.
- Use quality air filters: Clean air protects the turbo compressor wheel from damage caused by debris or dust—especially relevant for drivers in the U.S. Southwest or rural areas.
Investing in Value: Why This Replacement Makes Sense
From a cost-benefit perspective, drivers often face two scenarios:
- Continue driving with a failing turbo: Leads to poor performance, increased fuel consumption, possible engine damage.
- Replace the turbo: Restores performance, reduces oil/fuel losses, extends engine life.
Replacing the turbo via an aftermarket kit like the Autoround unit offers significant value:
- Direct fitment reduces labor cost and time.
- Lower parts cost compared to OEM GM unit.
- Immediate performance improvement and better drivability.
- Resale value may improve when performance is restored.
- Peace of mind with a 3-year warranty.
For many drivers, the cost of the kit (around a few hundred dollars) compared to the cost of ignoring the problem (fuel consumption, lost power, potential engine damage) is very favorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this kit fit my vehicle?
A: It fits the 2013-2018 Buick Encore (1.4 L L4) and the 2011-2018 Chevy Cruze (1.4 L), 2012-2020 Chevy Sonic (1.4 L), 2013-2018 Chevy Trax (1.4 L). Always verify with your vehicle selector or engine code.
Q: Is this a remanufactured unit?
A: No—this is a brand-new turbocharger kit (“new, not reman”) built to OEM-style quality.
Q: What’s included in the warranty?
A: The kit comes with a 3-year part warranty when purchased from Autoround.
Q: Can I install it myself in the U.S.?
A: Yes, if you’re comfortable with advanced mechanical work, including turbo mounting, oil/coolant line replacement, torque specs, and break-in procedures. If not, consider a trusted U.S. repair shop for installation.
Get Your Boost Back with Confidence
If your Buick Encore, Chevy Cruze, Sonic or Trax is losing power, using more oil, or showing boost issues, don’t let the problem linger. The Autoround Turbocharger with Gasket Kit is a smart and friendly solution that restores performance, protects your engine, and keeps your vehicle driving like it should.
For Fdrivers looking for a reliable, cost-effective turbo replacement: this kit offers excellent fit, quality, and support.
Ready to restore your boost? Click through to Autoround’s product page, confirm compatibility, and order your kit today.
