If your vehicle is showing strong exhaust fumes smell under the hood near the turbocharger, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
Extreme heat cycles can cause the bolts securing the turbocharger to the exhaust manifold or downpipe to loosen, or the gasket to blow out. This is highly common if gaskets were reused or improperly torqued during recent maintenance.
Exhaust manifolds on turbocharged engines endure massive thermal stress, frequently leading to hairline cracks or warped flanges that cause the manifold gasket to fail and leak exhaust gases.
The flex pipe absorbs engine movement and is often located right after the turbo downpipe. Over time, the braided steel degrades and cracks, venting exhaust gases directly into the engine bay.
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system routes exhaust gas from the manifold back into the engine. A failed EGR gasket or loose connection near the exhaust manifold will leak raw exhaust under the hood.
In severe cases of thermal shock or extreme mileage, the cast iron exhaust housing of the turbocharger itself can crack, leaking exhaust gases into the engine bay before they reach the exhaust system.