Turbochargers are great for coaxing more power out of an engine and are included on many production vehicles. Turbochargers are especially effective when it comes to getting more power and fuel economy from small-displacement motors. Your vehicle might have one or two turbochargers that help it go much faster and get better fuel economy than it would without them. Like all other parts of your vehicle, the turbocharger can go bad over time. Here are three things that could make your turbocharged engine lose its performance. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to enlist the help of a reputable turbo engine maintenance shop.
1. Lack of Oil
All turbochargers require oil to help keep them cool and prevent internal parts from seizing up or otherwise going bad. Turbochargers endure a lot of heat, which is why oil is needed to keep them cool and working as intended. The oil leaves a residue that builds up inside the oil passages inside a turbocharger. Those passages gradually become smaller and smaller when the oil residue builds up inside of them. Eventually, the residue completely blocks the oil and causes the turbocharger to overheat and stop working right.
2. Contaminated Oil
Closely related to oil starvation is oil contamination, which happens when oil collects particles that make it less effective. Many types of very fine particles can collect inside a turbocharger and create internal friction that makes the turbocharger run hotter than it should. The oil becomes less effective and might cause an internal part to suffer heat deformation that renders it useless. Contaminated oil is one of the primary reasons why it’s important to have a turbo engine maintenance shop do routine work on your car’s turbocharger. Qualified professionals can keep your turbo in good condition and producing excellent power.
3. Damage Caused by a Foreign Object
Turbochargers often are exposed to foreign objects that might cause debilitating damage to them. A stone or bolt thrown up by tires is a good example of a foreign object that might impact a turbocharger and damage it badly enough to require repair work or a complete replacement. A cracked turbocharger might leak oil or affect the airflow to the combustion chamber and cause it to lose power until it completely fails. Frequent visual inspections can help you catch damage caused by foreign objects.
Cars with turbocharged engines often cost more to insure because they cost more to repair than their non-turbocharged counterparts, according to Kelley Blue Book. However, investing in turbo repairs and maintenance is well worth the money to ensure you get the performance you need. If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s important to take action right away. Working with the right professionals will help ensure your vehicle stays in good shape. Call or visit our turbo engine maintenance shop at Samperio Turbo Rebuild to learn more and schedule service for your vehicle’s turbocharger.
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