The things You Should Never Do in a Turbocharged Vehicle
The use of various devices and technologies such as turbochargers makes our cars better machines. We don't often pay attention to turbochargers because they are usually autonomous and only require maintenance occasionally. However, there are at least five things you should never do on a turbocharged vehicle to ensure that it does not malfunction.
Don't drive right after the car starts
The turbocharger takes power from the engine's exhaust to spin the turbine and attached compressor wheel. But without any exhaust flowing through the turbine, the engine won't produce the burst of power it needs when it initially starts. Starting a turbocharged car in the winter is also problematic because the components of the turbocharger and engine can become stiff from the cold and can scrape against each other if the oil hasn't reached them yet.
Let it warm up first
The best option is to let the natural functions of a turbo engine take effect before driving. The oil will have time to reach the temperature needed to become thin enough to slip between these moving parts, such as the turbine and compressor wheels. Your engine will also become more comfortable powering the car and producing enough exhaust gas to start the turbocharger's function and give you the best performance with smooth progress while driving.
Don’t use adulterated fuel
Adulterated fuel is a mixture that uses other flammable materials such as ethanol or kerosene in addition to gasoline. In a turbocharged car, you should never drive with mixed fuel in the tank.
The extra chemicals can cause engine corrosion or cracking of the internal combustion engine, which can lead to engine knock. Over time, engine knock can damage engine components due to constant rattling noises from the components, and the exhaust gases it produces may not be enough to power the turbo, resulting in poor knocking and reduced performance.
Always use premium fuel
Premium fuel is always the best choice when filling up the tank because it ensures that the engine runs smoothly and the exhaust gases produced provide the required power to the turbo. Make sure the gas station you visit provides gasoline that is reliable and suitable for your car so that you don’t need to worry about any problems with your turbocharged engine.
Never turn off the engine suddenly
When you drive for a long time at increasingly faster speeds, a lot of exhaust gas flows through the turbocharger. If you turn off the car too quickly, these exhaust gases will remain in the turbocharger and can cause corrosion.
Never shut off the engine suddenly in a turbocharged car, as the heat is higher than in a normal engine and the oil may be too hot to properly coat the turbocharger and engine. The oil needs to cool down to a temperature where it can adhere to the metal and lubricate it, and this is not possible when the engine has not had a chance to cool down, especially after a long period of fast driving.
Keep the engine idle after driving
When you park and intend to shut down a turbocharged engine, let the vehicle idle for a while before shutting it off. The vehicle will have time to cool down and allow the oil to reach a temperature that will coat the metal parts. Excess exhaust gases will also exit the engine and prevent engine knocking.
Don't slam on the accelerator
Sometimes you may find that your vehicle's boost is not as strong as you would like. The common reaction is to press the accelerator pedal harder to allow more fuel and air to enter the combustion chamber. No matter what engine it is, you should not do this, especially in a turbocharged car.
Slamming on the accelerator will only waste fuel, which may cause parts of the engine and combustion chamber to clog. Accelerating too hard will also overwork the engine and turbine and cause rapid wear and tear on these parts.
Maintain steady pressure at a constant speed
It is very important to be consistent when driving a turbocharged vehicle because steady power will create a controlled workload for the car's components. If your vehicle is not producing enough boost, it is best to wait while maintaining constant pressure on the accelerator pedal. The turbo may take some time to provide a burst of power, depending on certain circumstances, such as your acceleration or if you slow down for a turn and speed back up.
Maintain Steady Pressure at a Constant Speed
It is very important to be consistent when driving a turbocharged vehicle, as steady power will create a controlled workload for the car's components. If your vehicle is not producing enough thrust, it is best to wait while maintaining constant pressure on the gas pedal. The turbo may take some time to provide a burst of power, depending on certain circumstances, such as your acceleration or if you slow down for a turn and accelerate back.
Don't Drive When There Are Signs of Damage
While a turbocharger generally does a good job of powering our cars without too many issues, it is still possible for it to fail. If your turbo shows signs of damage, the last thing you should do is drive it.
Make sure to look for blue smoke coming out of the engine, or if you notice a sudden drop in the vehicle's performance. These could be signs of a cracked turbo, as well as an oil or exhaust leak. The turbocharger is an extension of the engine's power; if it is damaged, it is only a matter of time before the engine shows signs of damage.
Stay Ahead of Repairs
Every part of your car requires ongoing maintenance, including the turbocharger. Keep your turbocharger well-maintained, and your vehicle will have a better chance of running for a long time without any sudden damage. If you have a specific type of turbine, such as a Holset, look for Holset turbine parts so you have the correct parts to ensure your turbine works properly.
Turbocharged cars are great driving machines, but they also come with risks that you should avoid whenever possible. It also helps to consider these no-nos for driving a vehicle with a turbocharger to ensure safety while driving.