Five Turbo Myths That Cost You Money

Many buyers believe the myths about turbocharging and switch to a naturally aspirated model instead. Are the myths true? Let us look at them.

1. Turbos fail easily and are expensive to fix

Manufacturing has moved on. A modern turbo lasts about as long as the car itself, and if it does fail it can be replaced as a unit at a reasonable cost.

2. A turbo needs high-octane fuel

Octane rating follows compression ratio, not turbocharging. A turbo works on exhaust gas, and the exhaust behaves the same whatever the octane, so a turbo car does not automatically need premium.

3. A turbo needs the best oil

Very poor oil should not be used, since it can lead to oil consumption, but the best is not required either: oil with good alkalinity resistance and high-temperature stability is enough.

4. You must idle for minutes after starting

Warm-up can be done by driving gently at low speed. Idling wastes fuel and builds carbon, doing more harm than good.

5. You must idle before switching off

After a hard run, allowing a minute at idle lets the turbo cool with oil flowing. After gentle driving it is unnecessary.