Recently I've noticed slight smoke and burning smell coming from my turbo. When I shut the car down I can hear gurgling coming from the turbo as well. The car isn't overheating. The oil levels are ok. I still have full power.

Is my turbo dying? Or is there some other problem?

This is my 2002 WRX with 170K miles.

 

Sounds like it might be on it's way out. Gurgling is normal, it's coolant circulating. Turbos go out they do take some pretty heavy wear. Hell look at it this way, you've got 170K on a tuned WRX with a possible failing turbo. That's pretty damn good.

 

Take it out and inspect it.

 

i got a wrx turbo lying around here gots like bout 35k no shaft play wasnt plannin on sellin it but if your in need of one i'd let it go for $125 bucks but i hope its not the problem tho good luck on that man..

 

it is gonna explode...kill it

 

I'll know by tomorrow. Got an appointment at LIC.

 

The guys at LIC worked their magic and all is well. Turns out it was the right front axle. The boot ripped open and spewed it's grease all over the DP and that's what was smoking (I think that's how it worked). So not only did they take my car in on a moments notice when nobody else (in my area) would touch it for a week, but they went ahead and performed a Major tune up service on it. BTW, I'd spring for the "good stuff" when it comes to oils. My gears are smooth as butter now. Stage 2 2002 WRX 170K miles and going strong!

 

good stuff how much did they charge you for that?