What kind of oil should be used for a turbocharged engine?
4 Answers
Turbocharged engines use either full synthetic oil or semi-synthetic oil. Below is some relevant information about turbocharged engines: 1. Working principle: A turbocharger is essentially an air compressor that increases the intake air volume by compressing air. The increased air pressure and density allow for the combustion of more fuel, which in turn increases the fuel quantity and adjusts the engine speed, thereby enhancing the engine's output power. 2. Components: The turbocharging system mainly consists of a turbine housing and a supercharger. First, the intake port of the turbine housing is connected to the engine's exhaust manifold, while the exhaust port is connected to the exhaust pipe. Then, the intake port of the supercharger is connected to the air filter pipeline, and the exhaust port is connected to the intake manifold. Finally, the turbine and impeller are installed in the turbine housing and supercharger respectively, and they are rigidly connected on the same shaft.
I've been driving turbocharged cars for years and found that only full synthetic oil is reliable. Turbo engines run at high temperatures and pressures, where conventional oil tends to break down and lose effectiveness. I mostly use 5W-30 viscosity oil—it lubricates quickly during cold starts and remains stable at high temperatures. Don't cheap out with mineral oil; that stuff degrades and clogs passages, leading to engine overheating and issues. Also, shorten the oil change interval—I recommend checking every 5,000 to 7,000 km or consulting the vehicle manual since it burns faster. This is crucial for driving safety—engine failure on the highway isn't worth the risk. I always go for premium brands like Shell's full synthetic. It's pricier, but protects the engine for longevity and saves money on long-term repairs.
With over a decade of driving experience, I've learned that turbocharged engines absolutely require full synthetic oil. It offers superior high-temperature resistance, prevents turbocharger blade wear, and ensures smoother engine operation. Choose viscosity grades like 0W-40 or 5W-30 based on manufacturer recommendations - never switch to mineral oil arbitrarily, as it may cause power loss during acceleration or even engine seizure. Always select API SP-grade oil for optimal compatibility. Don't delay oil changes - replace every 6,000 kilometers or so, and check regularly with the dipstick. While full synthetic costs tens of yuan more per change, it saves hundreds in potential major repairs. The key is choosing reliable brands like Mobil - it gives peace of mind and provides excellent protection for your beloved engine.
For turbocharged engines, I recommend fully synthetic oil. It withstands high temperatures and pressures, provides excellent lubrication, and prevents engine damage. A viscosity like 5W-30 suits most vehicle models. Mineral oil tends to break down easily, leading to more issues. Don't skip oil changes; doing it every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers is safest. This protects your engine, saving both money and hassle.
