Yes, you can absolutely install a turbocharger in an automatic car. It's a well-established method for significantly increasing horsepower and torque. However, it's far more complex than a simple bolt-on mod and requires careful consideration of your vehicle's entire drivetrain to ensure reliability. The automatic transmission, in particular, must be able to handle the substantial increase in power.
The core of the project is the turbocharger itself, which uses exhaust gases to force more air into the engine. This allows for more fuel to be burned, creating a powerful boost in output. But this added stress is the primary challenge. The engine's internal components—like pistons, connecting rods, and the head gasket—may need to be upgraded to forged or high-strength parts to prevent failure under boost.
The automatic transmission is the other critical component. Most stock automatic transmissions are designed to handle the engine's factory torque output. Adding a turbo can easily exceed this limit, leading to premature wear or catastrophic failure. An essential upgrade is often an auxiliary transmission cooler to manage the increased heat generated. For significant power gains, you may need a rebuilt transmission with stronger internal gears and clutches, or a custom tune for the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) to adjust shift points and line pressure.
Supporting modifications are non-negotiable. You'll need a high-flow fuel pump and injectors, an intercooler to cool the compressed air, and a professional engine tune from a specialist using tools like Hondata or Cobb Accessport. This tune is vital for managing air/fuel ratios and ignition timing to prevent engine-damaging detonation.
| Consideration | Stock System (Typical) | With Turbo (Required Upgrade) |
|---|
| Engine Internals | Cast pistons/rods | Forged pistons/rods |
| Fuel System | Standard pump/injectors | High-flow pump & injectors |
| Transmission | Rated for factory torque | May need rebuild & cooler |
| Engine Management | Factory ECU | Custom professional tune |
| Exhaust | Standard catalytic converter | High-flow downpipe |
| Cooling | Standard radiator | Upgraded intercooler |
Ultimately, while turbocharging an automatic car is a proven path to major power gains, it's a serious investment. The cost of supporting mods and professional labor often exceeds the price of the turbo kit itself. For many, seeking a factory-turbocharged vehicle is a more reliable and cost-effective solution.
