Saab 9-3 - is my turbocharger bust?

[Malim]

I've got a 1998 S reg 9-3 Turbo SE (that the 185bhp model) which started feeling sluggish and now only boosts to one-third of the gauge on the dashboard (that the gauge that goes green, orange, red). It doesn't get out of the green bit although the gauge does move. Does this means my turbocharger has had it?

If so, where's best to get a replacement. I'm guessing remanufactured/reconditioned is the way to go since I don't want to have a heart attack and cough for a new one.

If not, any suggestions. Electrickery perhaps?
Many thanks

George

[WildCards]

Do you see blue smoke coming out of the exhaust? That's usually a tell tale sign of a knackered turbo.

It could be a sticky wastegate not opening enough, best bet is to get it to someone who knows what they're looking at at really.

[fastcars_hardy]

It could be all sorts causing that. The car might have a fault so its backing the power off. you should get it looking at before spending lots of money.

[Max M4X WW]

Check all your boost and vac hoses too. Theres a valve thing on the bulkhead with 3 pipes going to various places. And the APC solenoid thing near the turbo with larger vac pipes.

[JensenA]

....or it could be a blocked or knackered Cat - Get the car diagnosed before spending money.