Turbo Engines
I'm looking for opinions on the pros & cons of owning a car with a turbo engine. I understand they are more expensive to work on. How Much? 10%, 20% more? Do some car manufacturers make a better turbo? What makes it better? I live in a desert climate. Are turbos prone to quicker breakdowns in hot climates? I average 10,000 miles a year and I'm good about maintenance and oil changes. Thanks for your comments.
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Turbos are very reliable overall, I also have a car with a supercharger. Nothing like the feeling of a turbo kicking in though,. supercharges are smooth and never know they are there. Turbos, love that kick at 2500 RPM. Highly recommned synthetic oil which will should eliminate the largest problem called coking when you shut down and the high RPMs of the turbo cause dino oil to coke or bake.
Anyway, no problem so far in my experience and love the power boost.
And yes, generally a turbo engine is harder to work on, as there is more plumbing and heat shielding, etc. Also, you probably lose about 10% of overall engine life on a turbo...but with engines being as durable as they are these days, unless you are really a fierce driver, you'd have gotten rid of the car before the wear effects of a turbo cause engine failure or serious problems.
Of course, not all turbo cars are designed equally, and some turbo cars can be annoying to drive, with too much turbo "lag" at low speeds and a rush of power in a narrow rpm band. Also, slamming into the turbo on a FWD car in wet weather can be unnerving if you aren't careful.
I love turbos and currently have a supercharged car also. Watch out for used turbos and keep the oil fresh. You will be fine.