Need opinion

So recently received error fuel pressure sensor malfunction, can remember code but replaced sensor and it resolved it. Oddly enough when I replaced fuel pressure sensor it started making a whine like I was low on power steering fluid. Sound increases with RPMs. I Confirmed all fluids were not low and no air in power steering unit.

Took off intercooler and Confirmed all connections were good with no rips or cracks. While in garage started with intercooler disconnected and heard sound immediately.

So I'm pretty sure the turbo or the bearing have gone bad. I am still hoping I am wrong but not leaning towards that.

My question is since I am not trying to build a performance car should I replace with another stock size or upgrade slightly since I will already be in there replacing it?

I will add don't really have money to spare so cost is definitely a factor too

 

Replacing with anything not stock will require a tune, which it seems you don't have the money for.

 

Already running versa tune, I have money i just don't want to throw $500+ at it

 

Are you self tuning? If not, it's still gonna cost.

 

I'm not self tuning but just trying to ask what could be an option and if so would expect to pay around xx.
Currently have versa tune and Autotech HPFP. So while not exactly at the point I can slap anything on and go i thought I'd ask to make sure I wasn't putting myself in a position I would screw myself.
Since clearly only advice i can get is it will cost i said screw it and ordered a new K04 replacement turbo. Guess when the next one goes out and I can start this process over

 

I self tune so don't take this as gospel but I think even a basic safe tune would be in the $150 range...Bout the same as a stock K04 if memory serves.

 

Why do you think your turbo is shitting the bed? Did you ever listen to it with the intercooler disconnected before the noise started? Is it using oil? Meeting boost targets?

 

After installing versatune I was getting 18-20 lbs of boost and now only get max of 12

When car starts it makes a whine like power steering is low and as it warms up it reduces

 

Possibly the pressure relief valve being taxed if the only thing you did was replace the sensor. There's at least one sensor known for reading low (causing high pressure), even though it is physically identical to stock. What sensor (by part number and brand) did you use, and what year is your car?



If the tune you have is either load based or hybrid, it will automatically lower boost in cold weather to accommodate for the higher air density. Or, you just have a leak, lol.

 

I have 2007 mazdaspeed3.
I bought the Duralast Fuel Injection Pressure Sensor SU13475. Comparing to pressure from before it went out seem same at idle and acceleration.
Granted only drove it a couple times since this problem start just in case it got worse.
But sound is definitely on backside of of engine.
Before fuel pressure sensor went bad seemed like wasn't getting as much boost but wasn't logging to know for certain.
Living here in Texas don't get too many cold days and even with 60-70 degrees boost is low. Last year didn't have that issue with temps in 40s.
I bought replacement turbo and it spins fine. Old one, which still need to pull, spins ok but has a little wiggle and feels like it has a little movement front to back which spins slower.
I know there is some play but curious if years of oil gummed it up. Definitely need to install a catch can

 

Fuel pressure is maintained on a duty cycle. If the sensor reads off, the ECU will still try to maintain the same target pressure, meaning the sensor will read the same (even if it's actually not).

 

Well finally got around to pulling turbo to replace it. Well can't say for sure it's my only problem but definitely a problem that needed to be fixed.
I will say it was somewhat a pain getting to some of the bolts. I'm a bigger guy and needles to say it was snug