Turbochargers, also popularly known as turbos were initially made for planes where the need for high-altitude performance was important during World War II. After reinvigorating the aviation industry, automotive companies started to fit them in cars in the 1960s and they eventually gained popularity in the 1980s.
Since then, a turbo is one of the most important components of any modern car’s engine. They help the engine burn fuel more efficiently and produce more power by compressing the air before it goes into the engine.
But often as time passes, the engine turbo becomes worn out or stops working properly, which can make the engine weaker and cause it to use more fuel. When this happens, there are two things you can do: either fix the turbo or get it replaced. While this can be a fun DIY project, it is best to rely on skilled mechanics for these complex repairs.
At In Town Automotive, we have the experience to get your engine running efficiently again by repairing or replacing your turbo. However to help you understand the importance of this crucial engine component, we will explore how periodic turbo replacement preserves your engine’s power and ensures it stays revved up for the long road ahead.
Let’s get started!
Why Do Turbos Fail?
Only a tiny fraction, probably less than 1%, of turbos fail because of manufacturing or mechanical issues. Most of the time, the culprits are what we call the “turbo killers” – for example issues like not having enough oil, dirty oil, or getting hit by things that should not have been in the engine.
Out of all the engine turbo troubles, more than 90% happen because of oil problems. Oil can stop reaching the turbo because of blocked or leaking pipes, or lack of oil in your vehicle.
Another factor that can lead to turbo issues and eventual failure is oil contamination and the presence of carbon deposits, better known as soot. If too much soot gathers in or around your turbo, it starts acting like sandpaper, wearing down the turbo’s parts.
In addition, you may experience issues with your turbo if you leave your engine running too long, drive recklessly or find yourself revving too aggressively, leading to rapid heat changes.
Can a Worn-Out Turbo Damage Your Engine?
When a turbo gets old or damaged, instead of powering up the engine, it can cause problems for it. Let’s break it down: the turbo’s job is to help the engine work more efficiently by pushing more air (therefore combustible oxygen) inside it.
But when the turbo is worn out, it can’t do it’s job properly, which means the engine doesn’t get enough air to mix with the fuel. When there is not enough air, the combustion engine cannot burn fuel efficiently, making it weaker.
On top of that, when a turbocharger fails, it can contaminate the engine’s lubrication system with debris and oil, which can cause increased wear on other components of the engine such as bearings and pistons. It can also cause cylinder scoring due to oil starvation.
Furthermore, a broken turbocharger could cause pieces of metal to enter the engine, leading to potential catastrophic engine failure and a hefty repair bill. To save yourself from trouble, if you suspect engine problems, getting your turbo looked at too by experienced professionals is incredibly important.
At In Town Automotive, our skilled mechanics can conduct a careful examination of your engine turbo, and repair or replace it as needed.
How Will Replacing My Turbo Impact Engine Performance?
An engine turbo is made up of a turbine and compressor wheel, which are bonded together with a shaft. While working the car engine produces a lot of fumes, which is pushed towards the turbo through an entrance.
These fumes turn the turbine and compressor wheel, pushing the compressed air out of the exhaust port and into the cylinders through a pipe. This clever mechanism forces more air into your engine and helps you drive your car faster.
When the turbo becomes old or has any kind of damage, maybe from too much heat, dirt or wear – it stops working as efficiently and ultimately affects the engine’s performance.
If your turbo isn’t working correctly, it limits the amount of air flow to the engine, meaning it cannot runas fast or as smoothly as it should. That’s why you need to get it checked regularly and replace it if needed.
Contact In Town Automotive to Revive Your Car’s Power with Our Turbo Replacement Services!
A worn-out turbo or turbo failure can damage your car’s engine. The longer you take to replace it and drive with a failed turbo, the more damage it will cause. If you notice any signs of slow down in your car, or it feels sluggish, it’s worth taking your vehicle a professional, like In Town Automotive, to get it checked out.
Our technicians have years of experience and can get your car operating at peak efficiency again quickly. If you are looking for turbo replacement in Northampton, then we’re the best choice for you.
Aside from turbo replacements, we offer other services like brake repairs, cambelt servicing, DPF cleaning, tyre maintenance, and more. If your car is due for an MOT, we also provide MOT checks. If you have any issues with your vehicle, contact us for a fast and friendly service.
To learn more about us, visit our turbo replacement page or contact us to book your appointment today!
bookings@intownautomotive.co.uk