Turbocharger Wastegate
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The turbocharger wastegate is a mechanically activated valve located in the turbine housing of the turbocharger. It is opened and closed by the vacuum operated turbocharger wastegate actuator dependent on the amount of boost the PCM is requesting for the current driving conditions. The wastegate allows exhaust gases to bypass the turbine to vary the speed of the compressor wheel in conjunction with the variable vanes used on the turbine. This configuration provides for more precise control of the turbocharger boost output.