What grade of engine oil is best for turbocharged engines?
2 Answers
Synthetic engine oil is recommended for turbocharged engines. Below is the relevant introduction: Introduction to synthetic engine oil: Synthetic engine oil is a type of artificially manufactured engine oil. During the production process, various natural substances are chemically decomposed and then synthesized with other substances to finally produce synthetic engine oil. Depending on the intended use, the composition of synthetic engine oil can be adjusted. Synthetic engine oil offers high lubricity, low friction resistance, resistance to oxidation, and strong cleaning properties. Characteristics of full synthetic engine oil: Full synthetic engine oil provides better high and low-temperature performance, has a longer oil change interval, and is suitable for more severe driving conditions.
From my over ten years of experience in car repair, when it comes to turbocharged engines, fully synthetic oil is the way to go. The viscosity grade should primarily follow the manufacturer's manual recommendations, commonly 5W-30 or 0W-40. Turbochargers spin fast and generate high temperatures; mineral oil can't handle it and tends to carbonize, leading to sludge buildup. If the viscosity is too low, inadequate lubrication can wear out the turbo bearings, while if it's too high, poor flow reduces cooling efficiency. I recommend checking the oil level every thousand kilometers and changing the oil every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers. Don’t skimp by using low-quality oil—saving a few bucks now could cost you thousands in major repairs later. Car maintenance is like human nutrition; poor care will lead to problems eventually. Remember, stick to reputable brands like Shell or Mobil for guaranteed quality.
