Our survey data show that many turbo engines are highly effective and reliable . But some CR members reported problems with certain turbocharged engines when compared with nonturbo engines, including problems with the turbochargers and engine computers.
What is the disadvantage of turbo engine?
Smaller engines use less fuel, but being turbocharged adds pressure, which can lead to higher temps and engine knock, damaging the engine. To avoid this, you have to have a lower compression ratio . Thermal efficiency and compression ratio are directly correlated.
Do turbo engines have more problems?
Turbo engines tend to have more problems in many cars , although there are turbocharged engines that are reliable. ... At higher mileage, as the cylinder walls and pistons rings wear out, higher combustion chamber pressure results in increased pressure inside the engine crankcase.
Does a turbo affect engine life?
2. Turbos Reduce the Lifespan of an Engine . One of the most common turbo myths is that running boost will damage your engine over time. ... However, a properly implemented turbo pushing enough PSI through a motor to produce respectable levels of power won’t strain a motor any more than idling in traffic will.
Do turbocharged engines require more maintenance?
Turbocharged engines will require more frequent oil changes and fresh spark plugs , though turbo engines typically don’t require additional service compared to naturally aspirated engines.
How many miles do Turbos last?
Turbos are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle (or around 150,000 miles ); however, it’s possible for them to wear out over time depending on how hard you drive the car and the original build quality of the turbo.
Who makes the most reliable turbo engine?
The study found that six brands which have turbocharged engines with better reliability than the average non-turbo engine. These brands were Honda, Lexus, BMW, Porsche, Audi, and Subaru .
How often do Turbos need to be replaced?
However, turbochargers are wearable parts and they will wear down over time. Most turbochargers need to be replaced between 100,000 and 150,000 miles . If you are good at maintaining your car and get timely oil changes your turbocharger may last even longer than that.
Is turbo engine better than normal engine?
The most obvious advantage of getting a turbocharged engine in your vehicle is that you’re going to have a much faster , much more powerful ride – but you don’t need an auto mechanic to tell you that. ... This also means that you’re able to get more power out of a smaller engine, without the need for upgrading.
What are the pros and cons of a turbocharger?
- Fuel economy can tank when driven aggressively.
- May require premium fuel.
- Can inflate repair costs.
Engines with high compression ratios or turbochargers often require high octane fuel found in premium gas for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. However, the majority of cars on the road today are optimized to run on regular gas.
Is a 4 cylinder turbo faster than a V6?
Modern turbocharged four-cylinder engines, when engineered properly, will either beat or match a naturally aspirated V6 in almost every category. Turbo-fours are lighter, more efficient , and can be more powerful than a naturally aspirated V6. The only thing that a V6 will always do better is towing capacity.
How much does a turbo increase horsepower?
A turbocharger works with the exhaust system and can potentially give you gains of 70-150 horsepower . A supercharger is connected directly to the engine intake and could provide an extra 50-100 horsepower.
Do turbos increase mpg?
A turbocharger typically helps a car get better gas mileage because a smaller engine can be used to get the same amount of performance. Expect a turbocharged engine to be about 8% -10% more fuel efficient that the same engine that is not turbo equipped.
Which is better naturally aspirated or turbo?
The benefit of a naturally aspirated engine is that they are in general more reliable than forced induction engines, or engines that rely on a turbo or supercharger. The big drawback is that to have a high-output naturally aspirated car usually means having a large, heavy and petrol guzzling engine.
