What should be considered when choosing engine oil for turbocharged cars?
2 Answers
Details to consider when selecting engine oil for turbocharged cars are as follows: 1. Turbocharged cars have higher requirements for the engine compared to naturally aspirated ones, as their internal components need to withstand high temperatures and more intense impacts, compression, and other working conditions. Therefore, when choosing engine oil for turbocharged cars, it is essential to select oil with good anti-wear properties, high-temperature resistance, and superior lubrication. Fully synthetic or semi-synthetic oils meet these requirements perfectly. Besides using the manufacturer-recommended oil, fully synthetic and semi-synthetic oils are excellent choices. 2. In addition to the above characteristics, engine oil suitable for turbocharged cars must also have good oxidation resistance. In high-temperature working environments, oil with poor oxidation resistance can easily degrade and become ineffective.
When driving a turbocharged car, extra care must be taken when selecting engine oil. As an experienced driver who has owned several turbocharged vehicles, I once made the mistake of using conventional oil to save money, only to trigger an engine overheating warning. The mechanic explained that turbochargers operate at extremely high temperatures, causing conventional oil to oxidize and degrade more easily. It's essential to choose high-quality full synthetic oil with excellent thermal stability, and never deviate from the manufacturer's recommended viscosity grades like 5W-30 or 5W-40. Look for API SP or ACEA C3 certifications to effectively prevent carbon buildup. Change intervals should be shorter – I recommend checking and replacing every 5,000 kilometers rather than procrastinating until 7,000-8,000 km. During summer highway trips when oil temperatures soar, premium oil protects turbo bearings and extends their service life. Choosing the wrong oil can lead to turbo wear and failure, resulting in repair bills costing thousands – a heartbreaking waste of both money and your beloved vehicle.
