Last Updated:
How to take care of a turbocharged engine: If you drive a car with a turbo engine, then some of your small mistakes can cause major damage to the turbocharger. This not only affects the performance of the vehicle, but thousands of rupees may also have to be spent on repairs. Which 5 important things should be kept in mind from starting the engine to shutting down the car? Learn about the right engine oil, air filter and driving habits that can help extend the life of your turbo engine.
Take care of a car with turbo engine like this.
How to take care of a turbocharged engine: To get good mileage along with better performance, people choose a car with turbocharged engine. This technology is capable of extracting tremendous power and torque even from a small engine. However, while turbo engines offer a better driving experience than naturally aspirated engines, they also require extra care and proper maintenance. Turbocharger works at high temperature and its turbine rotates between 1.5 lakh to more than 2.5 lakh revolutions per minute (RPM).
Due to high speed and high temperature, huge pressure is created on its components. If car drivers ignore some basic technical habits and regular servicing rules, the turbocharger can wear out prematurely, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, to maintain the longevity of the turbo engine, it is very important to keep some special things in mind. Come, let us know about them.
Avoid acceleration immediately after starting
As soon as you start the car, avoid driving at high speed or pressing the accelerator suddenly. After the engine is started, it takes a few seconds for the oil pump to deliver engine oil to the bearings throughout the engine block and turbocharger. After starting the engine, let the vehicle run at idle (neutral) for about 30 to 60 seconds, so that the correct oil pressure and temperature can be achieved.
Cool-down before shutting down the engine
Do not switch off the engine immediately after a long journey or driving at high speed. When you suddenly turn off the ignition, oil flow to extremely hot parts of the turbo stops, causing the trapped oil to burn and form carbon (oil coking). This carbon causes permanent damage to the turbo bearing. After stopping the vehicle, leave the engine running for at least one minute.
Selecting the Right Grade Synthetic Oil
Engine oil acts as the lifeblood of a turbo engine, which not only helps in lubrication but also helps in keeping the turbo cool. Always use full-synthetic oil as recommended by the manufacturer and change it when the prescribed time or kilometers are completed. Spoiled or thickened oil cannot protect the turbo’s high speed bearings.
Regular check of air filter
The turbocharger draws large amounts of air from outside and sends it into the combustion chamber. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, dust and fine particles can reach the turbo’s compressor wheel and damage its blades. Therefore, get the air filter cleaned or replaced at every servicing.
Avoid overloading at low RPM
Putting the vehicle in a higher gear and suddenly pressing the accelerator heavily at very low speed (engine lagging) is harmful for turbocharged engines. This creates abnormal pressure on the engine components. Whenever more speed is needed, downshift to the correct gear.
About the Author
Ram Mohan Mishra is an active journalist in the automotive world of digital media and has been working continuously in the field of auto journalism since 2021. Presently he is handling the auto desk of News18 Hindi as Senior Sub-Editor.
