Common Causes of Turbocharger Damage and How to Avoid Them

Turbochargers are devices that increase the power and efficiency of an engine by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. They are very popular in modern cars, especially those with smaller engines that need a boost of performance. However, turbochargers also have some drawbacks and challenges that can cause them to fail or malfunction.

In this article, we will explain what can cause damage to a turbocharger, and how to avoid or fix these problems.

What can cause damage to a turbocharger?

There are many factors that can affect the lifespan and performance of a turbocharger. Some of the most common ones are:

• Heat: Turbochargers generate a lot of heat and run at very high RPM (revolutions per minute). This means that they need proper cooling and lubrication to prevent overheating and wear. If the oil or coolant that flows through the turbocharger is insufficient, dirty, or clogged, it can cause the bearings or seals to fail, resulting in oil leakage, smoke, or loss of power. Heat can also cause the oil to burn and form deposits inside the turbocharger, which can block the oil passages and reduce the efficiency of the turbocharger. 
• Dirt: Turbochargers are exposed to the air and exhaust gases that enter and exit the engine. These can contain dust, debris, or particles that can damage the turbocharger’s components, especially the compressor and turbine blades. If the air filter or the exhaust system is faulty or not installed properly, it can allow dirt to bypass the filter and enter the turbocharger, causing abrasion, corrosion, or imbalance. Dirt can also affect the engine itself, causing wear and tear, reduced compression, or increased emissions.
• Pressure: Turbochargers operate under high pressure, which can cause stress and fatigue on the turbocharger’s parts. If the pressure is too high or too low, it can affect the performance and reliability of the turbocharger. For example, if the wastegate, which is a valve that regulates the pressure of the exhaust gas that drives the turbocharger, is stuck or malfunctioning, it can cause the turbocharger to overspeed or underspeed, resulting in damage or inefficiency. Pressure can also be affected by the altitude, temperature, or humidity of the environment, which can change the density and volume of the air that enters the turbocharger.

How to avoid or fix turbocharger problems?

There are some simple and effective ways to prevent or solve turbocharger problems. Here are some tips and recommendations:

• Use the right oil and change it regularly: Oil is essential for the lubrication and cooling of the turbocharger. It is important to use the right type and grade of oil for your engine and turbocharger, and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil change intervals. Using synthetic oil can be beneficial, as it can resist heat better than regular oil. Changing the oil regularly can prevent the oil from degrading, losing its viscosity, or becoming contaminated with dirt or metal particles. 
• Let the engine idle before and after driving: One of the best practices to protect your turbocharger is to let the engine idle for at least one minute before you shut it off, and for at least one minute after you start it. This allows the oil to circulate and cool down the turbocharger, and to prevent the oil from coking or solidifying inside the turbocharger when the engine is off. It also allows the turbocharger to warm up and reach its optimal speed and pressure when the engine is on. This is especially important if you drive your car hard, or if the turbocharger is water-cooled, as the coolant also needs time to circulate and cool down the turbocharger.
• Do not drive hard until the engine is fully warmed up: Driving your car hard when the engine is cold can cause damage to the turbocharger and the engine. This is because the oil and the coolant are not at their optimal temperature and viscosity, and the clearances between the parts are not adjusted. This can cause friction, wear, or leakage, and affect the performance and efficiency of the turbocharger and the engine. It is advisable to drive gently and gradually increase the speed and load until the engine reaches its normal operating temperature.
• Drive hard every once in a while: While driving hard when the engine is cold is bad, driving hard every once in a while when the engine is warm is good. This is because it can help to clear the carbon deposits that may build up inside the turbocharger, the engine, or the exhaust system. It can also help to activate the wastegate and prevent it from sticking or rusting. Driving hard means accelerating and decelerating rapidly, and using the full range of the turbocharger’s boost and RPM. However, do not overdo it, as it can also cause stress and wear on the turbocharger and the engine.
• Check and maintain the air filter and the exhaust system: The air filter and the exhaust system are crucial for the turbocharger’s operation and protection. They prevent dirt and debris from entering the turbocharger and the engine, and they regulate the pressure and flow of the air and the exhaust gases. It is important to check and replace the air filter regularly, and to ensure that it is installed correctly and securely. It is also important to check and repair any leaks, cracks, or damages in the exhaust system, and to ensure that the catalytic converter, the muffler, and the sensors are working properly.

Conclusion

Turbochargers are amazing devices that can enhance the power and efficiency of an engine. However, they also have some challenges and risks that can cause them to fail or malfunction. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you can prevent or fix turbocharger problems, and enjoy the benefits of a turbocharged engine.

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