How Are Most Turbochargers Lubricated?

Turbochargers improve the engine’s performance and efficiency by supplying extra compressed air. To work properly, they need proper lubrication to reduce friction and ensure the longevity of their components. Knowing how are most turbochargers lubricated makes it easier to keep them running at peak efficiency over a long period.

The article will discuss turbocharger lubrication and how the oil makes its way to the turbocharger.

How Are Most Turbochargers Lubricated

The role of lubrication is to support the engine’s work by reducing the friction of the moving parts and dissipating heat. This is possible through the engine’s precisely designed lubrication and cooling system, without which the car wouldn’t work properly or last too long.

Different engine designs have different lubrication system. But, regardless of the engine design, every turbocharger uses the same oil for lubrication. When the turbocharger gets installed, it gets connected to the engine’s lubrication and cooling system, allowing it to receive the necessary oil for proper function.

The other vital role of the oil is to cool the turbo as it carries away the excess heat generated in the turbocharging process. Without proper cooling, the turbocharger will likely overheat and lead to potential damage.

How does a turbo get oil

The lubricating oil makes its way to the turbocharger with the help of the oil pump, which takes it from the oil pan and guides it through the oil filter to remove if from any impurities. The oil then gets sent through an oil feed line, which directs it toward the turbocharger.

The oil enters the turbocharger’s bearing housing, lubricating the bearings and the spinning shaft. Once it passes through the bearing housng, it makes its way back to the oil pan through an oil return line.

This process happens continuously while the engine runs, creating a constant flow of oil to keep the turbo and the other components running smoothly.

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Types of turbocharger lubrication

Turbochargers can achieve lubrication only from oil. Even though some turbos have an oil system that’s independent of the engine, it is still related to the oil.

On the other side, there are some turbos that receive cooling from other sources, like water. Water-cooled turbochargers utilize a separate cooling system that circulates water throughout the device. It’s highly effective in managing the extreme temperatures generated by the turbo’s work, and many models utilize this method as a way to ensure the device works properly.

Engines that utilize the oil for both lubrication and cooling use a combination of oil-lubricated and oil-cooling systems. The disadvantage of the dual purpose of oil in both lubricating and managing the heat is that the high heat can break it down and reduce its efficiency faster.

Turbocharger maintenance and care

Performing regular inspections of the turbocharger will help you discover any oil leaks and loose connections. 

Engines require scheduled oil changes; adhering to these intervals is crucial because proper lubrication requires clean and high-quality oil. Changing the oil is also an effective way to remove the contaminants it has absorbed over time.

As part of the regular maintenance program, you must always ensure that the oil filter works well and replace it at the required frequency. Having high-quality oil flow through the engine and into the turbocharger is essential in maintaining the high performance of your vehicle. 

When it comes to the oil, it must contain an adequate amount of viscosity in order to act as an effective lubricant and protect the moving parts. But, you have to understand that the oil loses its viscosity over time through its exposure to high temperatures and contaminants. So, regular changes are necessary to ensure that it maintains its lubricating properties.

Recognizing signs of improper lubrication

A bad lubrication for the engine can also lead to a lack of lubrication for the turbocharger. There are ways to notice it if the driver is vigilant enough for changes in the car’s behavior.

Here are some symptoms that might indicate problems with the oil:

Increased noise

The lack of proper lubrication can cause a noticeable increase in both engine and turbocharger noise. It’s likely caused by the higher friction between the moving parts, like the compressor and the turbine wheels. The high-speed rotation of the compressor and turbine wheels creates a significant amount of heat, which, in the absence of proper lubrication, will come into more direct contact and lead to increased noise.

If you notice a significant noise increase, you should immediately take your vehicle to a professional for inspection. 

Decreased performance

One of the most noticeable effects of bad lubrication is experiencing a decrease in the engine’s power output. The turbocharger’s role is to compress air and enhance the combustion process. Whenever it isn’t adequately lubricated, it may reduce power generation.

The decrease in performance can mostly be felt during acceleration as the turbo becomes more sluggish in its response. Lagging when delivering the boost and delivering an interrupted fuel efficiency are also common signs that something may be wrong with the turbocharger, especially with its lubrication.

Oil pressure warning light

Sometimes, the only way to know there’s something wrong with the oil is when the light comes on, as the symptoms may be unnoticeable. The oil warning light is designed to monitor and inform the driver about the engine’s oil pressure status. When the engine lacks oil, the pressure increases, which prompts the light to notify the driver of the problem.

Ignoring the light can have severe consequences for the turbocharger and the engine, and an immediate response is necessary. As a driver, you should pull over to a safe location as fast as possible and turn off the engine. Afterward, you should check the oil’s level with the dipstick before getting professional assistance.

Conclusion

The turbocharger gets its lubrication from the same source as the engine, and it’s reliant on the quality and sufficient amount of engine oil. Moreover, popper lubrication ensures that the induction devices function efficiently, providing the added power and efficiency many engines depend on. 

On a final note,  whether you're an automotive enthusiast or a mechanic, delving into the intricacies of how are most turbochargers lubricated can lead to improved engine performance and reliability.