How They Work

A turbocharger is a device that is used to increase the power and efficiency of an internal combustion engine. It does this by using the exhaust gases produced by the engine to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of how a turbocharger works:

1. The exhaust gases from the engine pass through the turbine housing, which contains a turbine wheel. The high-velocity gases cause the turbine wheel to spin at a high speed.
2. The turbine wheel is connected to a shaft, which runs through the center of the turbocharger. The other end of the shaft is connected to a compressor wheel.
3. As the turbine wheel spins, it causes the compressor wheel to spin as well. The compressor wheel is located on the intake side of the turbocharger and is surrounded by a housing that contains an inlet and outlet.
4. The spinning compressor wheel draws in air from the inlet and compresses it before releasing it through the outlet. The compressed air is then forced into the engine's combustion chamber, where it mixes with fuel and is ignited.
5. The increased airflow provided by the turbocharger allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power. This can result in improved performance and fuel efficiency.
6. To prevent the turbocharger from spinning at excessively high speeds, a wastegate is often used to regulate the flow of exhaust gases through the turbine. The wastegate is a valve that can be opened or closed to control the amount of exhaust gases that pass through the turbine. This helps to prevent the turbocharger from overspeeding and damaging itself or the engine.

Overall, the turbocharger is a valuable tool for increasing the power and efficiency of an internal combustion engine. By using the energy from the exhaust gases to drive a compressor, it is able to force more air into the engine's combustion chamber, resulting in increased performance and fuel efficiency.

Why They Fail

There are several reasons why a turbocharger can fail. Some of the most common causes of turbo failure include:

1. Oil contamination: If the oil system becomes contaminated with dirt or debris, it can clog the oil passages in the turbo and cause it to fail. This can be caused by a lack of proper maintenance or a faulty oil filter.
2. Lack of lubrication: If the turbo isn't getting enough lubrication, it can overheat and fail. This can be caused by a lack of oil or a problem with the oil pump.
3. Foreign object damage: If a foreign object, such as a rock or piece of debris, gets sucked into the turbo, it can cause damage to the turbine blades. This can result in a loss of performance or complete failure of the turbo.
4. Overheating: If the turbo is subjected to excessive heat for extended periods of time, it can fail. This can be caused by a malfunctioning cooling system or a lack of proper airflow to the turbo.
5. Wear and tear: Like any mechanical device, a turbo will eventually wear out and fail. This is usually caused by the normal wear and tear that occurs over time as the turbo is used.

Overall, a turbocharger can fail for a variety of reasons, including oil contamination, lack of lubrication, foreign object damage, overheating, and wear and tear. Proper maintenance and care can help to prevent some of these issues and extend the life of the turbo.

Tips To Prevent Premature Failure

Here are a few tips to help prolong the lifespan of the turbocharger in your car:

1. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule: This will help to ensure that the turbo is getting the proper care and attention it needs to function properly.
2. Use high-quality oil and filters: Using high-quality oil and filters can help to prevent contamination and clogging, which can lead to turbo failure.
3. Avoid overloading the engine: Overloading the engine can put excess strain on the turbo and cause it to fail prematurely.
4. Let the engine warm up before driving: Allowing the engine to warm up before driving can help to reduce the amount of strain on the turbo and prevent it from overheating.
5. Avoid long periods of idling: If you're going to be stopped for an extended period of time, it's best to turn the engine off rather than letting it idle. This can help to prevent the turbo from overheating.
6. Avoid extreme driving conditions: If possible, try to avoid driving in extreme conditions, such as very hot or very cold temperatures, as this can put additional strain on the turbo.

By following these tips, you can help to prolong the lifespan of the turbocharger in your car and ensure that it continues to function properly.

How We Can Help

At Start My Car, we stock a range of D.O.E Turbochargers, which are drop-in replacements for your damaged turbo. D.O.E Quality parts is a trusted provider, and all source factories have been carefully researched to ensure they are currently supplying OE parts, in addition to meeting or exceeding the relevant ISO standards. All turbos are factory tested, Core balanced, checked for boost and actuator movement, and undergo oil leakage tests. Components interchangeable with OEM turbos.

Additionally, D.O.E. turbos came with a 1 month no quibble warranty provides for one free of charge replacement turbocharger in the event of failure for any reason. After that 1 month, you still get a 1 year warranty against faulty components and workmanship.