Dacia Sandero (2011) Experiencing Black Smoke, Reduced Power, and Stalling: Possible Boost Pressure Sensor Failure

Hey! I've gone through something quite similar with my Dacia Logan MCV (2014, Diesel). She started chucking out black smoke, giving jerks, and stalled like yours. The pesky check engine light wouldn't quit, either - dead ringer for a few issues. But the loud hiss and power drop made me suspect something related to the turbo. Turned out, it was actually the waste gate valve that had packed it in. It’s a serious issue don't take it lightly. It controls excess pressure by directing exhaust gases away from the turbocharger, preventing them from pushing the turbo beyond its limit. If it fails, you can damage the turbo, which is a whole can of worms. The mechanic had to replace the whole unit, which entailed removing the turbocharger (because the wastegate valve's often part of the same assembly). I reckon the turbo removal process can be slightly different from model to model, but that was the general gist. Took a couple of days in the shop to get her sorted. Seriously, don't delay this, the longer you put it off, the more damage might be done (to your turbo or even your engine). Get her to the shop and see what the lads there have to say. Best of luck with it!

Hey there, Blimey, I didn't think about the waste gate valve. That's really informative. Sounds like a right nightmare with your Logan, huh? Hopefully, it's not something that drastic for my old Sandero but I'll certainly be taking her in to get looked at ASAP. I hope you don't mind me asking - was the fix particularly painful on your wallet? Trying to get an idea of how much damage this might do to my finances. And since you got it sorted, has anything else cropped up or is she running smooth now? Thanks again for all the info, it's a huge help. Cheers!

Hey there, Yeah, the wallet certainly felt the pinch when the mechanic mentioned a wastegate valve replacement. Enough to get your head spinning, honestly! Had to shell out 860 smackeroos, quite a hefty little sum. But then again, you can't put a price on peace of mind, right? Ever since I forked out the dough, I'm happy to report that she's been running like a dream! Definitely smoother than before. And remember that boost pressure sensor issue you suspected? Well, it turned out it was busted in my case and needed some TLC from the mechanic. She's all fixed up now and not causing any more mischief. It was pricey, sure, but in the end, it was worth every penny. It just goes to show you that with such complications, you gotta get under the hood and deal with the issues straight away. Hoping your Sandero's bill won't be breaking the bank though, and that she'll be purring like a kitten soon. Best of luck!

Hey! Phew, gotta say that 860 quid is a bit of a shocker, but you're right, can't put a price on the peace of mind and ensuring the ol' girl keeps rolling. That turbocharger sounds like a delicate soul, so I'll definitely get the mechanic to take a peek at the boost pressure sensor and the wastegate valve. Hopefully, my Sandero gets through with a little lighter hit to the wallet but it's better knowing what I could be in for than not! I'm glad to hear your Logan settled down after the fixing. Fingers crossed for my Dacia, hoping she'll run smooth as well. Thanks a ton for the detailed responses, been a massive help. Guess it's time to pay a visit to the mechanic and let them have a good rummage under the hood. Cheers take care!