A turbocharger is a turbine-driven device that compresses the engine's air to increase power output and efficiency. It can boost during acceleration, reduce the wear and tear of engine parts, and be added to diesel and gas cars. However, you may forget about certain disadvantages of turbochargers when choosing between a turbocharger and a supercharger.
A turbocharger is expensive, especially when you include the extra parts and installation fees. It may also cause delays in emergencies.
Below, we’ll go over the main drawbacks of turbochargers and compare them to superchargers.
Disadvantages of Turbochargers
The cons of turbochargers are vital when choosing whether to add one to your car. For example, reliability issues are common with turbochargers since they require many different components that can fail. However, some other disadvantages can be the following:
Increased cost
One disadvantage of turbochargers is the cost, more precisely, the additional parts needed for the engine to work with the extra power added by the turbo.
The typical kit comprises the turbo, exhaust manifold, wastegate, and blowout valve. And buying the parts separately can range from $500 to $5,000, sometimes more.
However, depending on the engine's make and model, additional tuning and onboard computer parts may be needed. Moreover, don’t forget that if you’re an amateur, you may need professional help, which may cost you significant money.
Although there are many affordable turbos for sale, these are the most popular turbocharger car models at the moment that come at a high cost and have extensive maintenance requirements:
- Toyota Supra MK4
- Subaru Impreza
- Subaru Impreza WRX
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 1-10
- Nissan 350z
- Nissan 370z
- Nissan GTR
- Nissan Skyline
- Porsche 911
- Volkswagen Golf R
- Ford Focus RS
- Mazda RX-7
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Honda Type
Laggy response
To deliver power to the engine, a turbo requires the engine to maintain a specific RPM, which varies depending on the model. The turbine must also spool at the correct speed to force air into the engine, delivering the necessary power.
This is why, in racing, more specifically in rally racing, when the driver is shifting gears, they hold the foot on the gas pedal and the clutch to keep the turbo from spooling down.
In emergencies, when you need to speed up when entering the highway, if you miss a gear, the turbo will slow down to the minimum speed, and you will lose all the momentum you were building up. Even with correction into the right gear, the turbo will take time to spool to the correct speed again.
Complexity and maintenance
Turbo engines require more routine maintenance than a standard engine. The turbo can add up to 40% more power, thus stressing the additional components of the engine and resulting in a shorter lifespan of the engine. Not to mention that you will have to buy premium gas, which will add to the day-to-day cost of your vehicle.
The turbo also delivers a boost to the engine. So, if you over-boost, you can fry the turbo and the pistons, which will result in very expensive engine repair.
Reduced fuel efficiency
Turbos can decrease fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic and city driving. When driving in the city, the smaller-capacity engine will be forced to work at high RPM to keep up with traffic. Meanwhile, the turbo will spool at the maximum safe speed, forcing more air into the engine bay and turning the cylinders faster, resulting in higher fuel consumption.
Turbocharger vs. Supercharger
Unlike the turbocharger, where the power comes from a turbine spooling up to speed from wasted heat from the exhaust manifold to compress the air, the supercharger is connected to the crankshaft using a belt. The supercharger speeds up simultaneously with the crank and forces air into the engine bay without the lag using forced induction, creating up to 50% more power.
A supercharged car usually has a hood scoop from where it intakes air, after which the supercharger comprises the air and increases air pressure and density. The engine receives more air and burns more fuel, producing more power.
Hence, superchargers are found in famous V8 cars such as the Shelby Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Charger, and off-road vehicles like the Land Rover lineups.
Types of superchargers
There are four types of superchargers:
- The Roots supercharger uses two rotors to send air into the fuel mixture, forcing it into the intake manifold and increasing the pressure between the supercharger and the engine.
- The twin-screw supercharger looks like the Roots supercharger, but instead of compressing air from the intake, it does so within the supercharger housing, forcing air into two interwoven screws.
- The centrifugal supercharger is a little simpler. As the name suggests, there is a fan that sucks air into the intercooler or directly into the engine.
- And the newest generation of superchargers, that is the electric supercharger. It works like the centrifugal supercharger, but this time uses an electric motor to pressurize air intake.
Superchargers are widely available, reliable, and can be used for cars with 250,000+ miles. Last but not least, they give the signature whining noise that car enthusiasts can’t resist – one of the disadvantages of turbochargers.
Other Factors to Consider
Here are some additional factors to consider when deciding whether to get a turbocharger:
Conclusion
There are as many advantages as there are limitations of turbocharger cars. For example, a turbocharger is highly versatile and can fit many types of vehicles. However, it stresses the existing engine, so you may still need to upgrade your parts. A turbocharger can also extend the engine's life but costs a lot to maintain fuel-wise.
When deciding whether the disadvantages of turbochargers outweigh the advantages, you want to be fully aware of your vehicle needs. Consider your car model, budgetary restrictions, and driving style – all these factors will help you make the right decision.
