Turbochargers are everywhere in 2026, from compact sedans to heavy-duty trucks. As more buyers turn to turbocharged engines for power and efficiency, a lot of outdated or incorrect information is still circulating. If you're shopping for a turbo or just curious about how they work, it's easy to fall for these myths.
This guide dispels 12 of the most common misconceptions buyers still hold. Read on to get a realistic view of what turbochargers can (and can't) do, helping you make smart decisions and avoid problems down the road.
Myth 1: Turbochargers Damage Engines And Shorten Lifespan
This myth stems from older turbo systems that ran hot and were sensitive to poor maintenance. Today's turbos are far more advanced. When properly maintained, a turbo won't hurt your engine.
Most modern engines are designed to be turbocharged from the start. They come with reinforced components, better cooling systems, and sensors that regulate boost to keep everything within safe limits.
The real danger is neglecting oil changes, skipping them, or using the wrong type of oil, which can cause premature wear. But if you follow a regular maintenance schedule, a turbocharged engine can last just as long as a naturally aspirated one.
Myth 2: Remanufactured Turbochargers Aren't As Reliable As New Ones
A high-quality remanufactured turbo can be just as dependable as a new one. The key difference is in how it's sourced and rebuilt. At Goldfarb & Associates, we only offer remanufactured turbos that have been disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt with new components where needed. Every unit is visually inspected, and we only accept structurally sound cores.
Some buyers assume "remanufactured" means "used and worn out." That's not true. In many cases, the turbo you get is a mix of restored housings and brand-new internals, tested to meet OEM standards. For buyers seeking to save money without compromising quality, remanufactured turbos are a smart option.
Myth 3: Turbochargers Always Create Lag
Turbo lag was once a significant issue, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. Back then, it took time for exhaust gases to spool up the turbo, so drivers experienced a delay in power delivery. Modern turbo designs have addressed this issue with features such as variable geometry vanes, twin-scroll housings, and electronic wastegates.
Additionally, improved engine tuning helps maintain smooth and responsive power. For most modern setups, the average driver won't notice any lag at all during daily driving. If you're running an aftermarket turbo that's too large for your engine, lag might still be a factor—but that's a sizing issue, not a turbo problem.
Myth 4: Turbochargers Are Only For High-Performance Cars
Indeed, turbos were once reserved for sports cars and race builds. Today, they're used on everything from sedans to pickup trucks and delivery vans. Automakers use turbochargers to downsize engines without sacrificing power, improving efficiency, and lowering emissions.
You don't need a high-performance car to benefit from turbocharging. Many small engines utilize low-pressure turbos solely to enhance low-end torque and drivability. These setups prioritize balance over raw speed, making them ideal for everyday use.
Myth 5: Aftermarket Turbos Always Outperform Stock Units
Bigger doesn't always mean better. Aftermarket turbos can boost power, but only when the rest of the system is built to support it. An oversized turbo on a stock engine might increase top-end performance, but it can also introduce lag, strain components, and cause reliability issues.
OEM turbos are carefully matched to the engine's airflow and fuel delivery. They prioritize durability, low-end power, and efficiency. That's why many drivers stick with OEM or OEM-style replacements. If you're planning an upgrade, you'll need supporting mods, such as upgraded injectors, intercoolers, and tuning, to benefit from the upgrade fully.
Myth 6: Turbochargers Decrease Fuel Economy
This one depends entirely on how the car is driven. Turbocharged engines can burn more fuel when under heavy boost. But when driven moderately, they can be more efficient than larger naturally aspirated engines.
That's why manufacturers use turbocharging to replace V6 and V8 engines with smaller inline fours. You still get power when you need it without constantly burning extra fuel. In day-to-day driving, a turbocharged engine typically consumes fuel more efficiently unless you're continually flooring it.
Myth 7: Turbochargers Always Require Premium Fuel
Not every turbo engine needs premium fuel. It depends on the compression ratio, boost level, and engine tuning. Many factory-tuned turbo engines run just fine on regular unleaded gasoline, although premium fuel can improve performance in some cases.
Always check the fuel recommendation in the owner's manual. Using a lower-octane fuel than what the engine was tuned for can cause knocking, which can damage the pistons and valves over time. But if the engine was designed to handle 87 octane, you're good to go.
Myth 8: You Can Bolt A Turbo Onto Any Engine Without Extra Work
A turbo isn't a plug-and-play mod. Adding one to a naturally aspirated engine requires significant changes, including stronger internals, a lower compression ratio, revised fuel maps, and upgraded cooling systems, among others. Slapping on a turbo without these steps is a quick way to blow a head gasket or crack a piston.
If your engine wasn't designed with turbocharging in mind, it's better to swap in a turbocharged engine or work with a builder who understands the required modifications. The cost of doing it right is often more than buyers expect.
Myth 9: Turbochargers Require Extensive And Expensive Supporting Mods
This depends on your goals. If you're replacing a worn-out OEM turbo with a similar unit, no supporting mods are needed. However, if you're upgrading to a larger aftermarket turbo, you may need to upgrade fuel delivery, intercooling, tuning software, and other components.
Supporting mods doesn't have to be expensive or extreme. Sometimes, it's just about better airflow or heat management. The idea that every turbo build needs thousands in extras is only valid if you're chasing big power numbers. For factory replacements or mild upgrades, your stock setup may already be enough.
Myth 10: Turbocharging Kits Always Cause Unwanted Heat Buildup
Turbos do create extra heat, but that doesn't mean your engine will overheat. Modern systems utilize intercoolers to reduce intake air temperatures and water-cooled turbo housings to more effectively manage heat. Exhaust manifolds are also constructed from materials that can withstand high temperatures.
Problems usually arise when an aftermarket turbo is installed without proper heat shielding or tuning. Overheating often comes from installation shortcuts, not the turbo itself. For stock applications or professionally installed kits, heat buildup is controlled by design.
Myth 11: Turbochargers Automatically Void A Car's Warranty
Installing a turbo or aftermarket part doesn't void your entire warranty. In most countries, including the U.S., warranty coverage can only be denied if the modification directly caused the issue being claimed. This is part of federal law.
That said, if you install a turbo on an engine that wasn't designed for it and something goes wrong, the manufacturer won't cover the damage. Always document your work, use quality parts, and consult your dealership or mechanic before modifying a vehicle under warranty.
Myth 12: You Must Idle Before Shutting Off A Turbocharged Engine
This was true in the past when turbos lacked modern cooling systems. Today's turbocharged engines often have water-cooled housings and improved oil flow to prevent coking. Unless you've just finished hard driving or towing under load, you can usually shut off the engine without idling first.
Still, it's a good habit to wait 30 seconds after highway driving before turning the engine off. This allows oil to circulate and cool the turbo, especially on older vehicles. If you're concerned, turbo timers or modern engines with built-in cooldown cycles offer added peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the future of turbochargers?
Turbochargers are getting an electric boost to spool up instantly and work smoothly with hybrid systems. More innovative controls and lighter materials will make them more efficient and responsive, providing you with quicker power and improved fuel use in the years ahead.
What is the life expectancy of a turbocharged engine?
With regular oil and filter changes using quality synthetic oil, a turbocharged engine can easily reach 200,000 miles. Letting the turbo cool briefly after hard driving and keeping air filters clean also helps it last.
What is the biggest problem with turbos?
Too much heat and old oil tend to cause issues. Excessive exhaust temperatures can wear seals, and degraded oil leaves deposits on bearings. Good cooling, fresh oil, and sticking to service schedules keep turbos running well.
What to look out for when buying a turbo?
Gently rock the shaft to check for minimal play and spin the compressor wheel to spot bent blades. Make sure the oil and coolant ports match your engine's fittings. Finally, pick a supplier that offers transparency and a clear return policy.
Leave the Myths Behind and Get the Turbo You Actually Need
Turbochargers have come a long way, but the myths haven't caught up. Misinformation can lead buyers to make expensive decisions or avoid turbos altogether. Now that you know the facts, you're in a better position to choose the correct turbo for your vehicle, driving style, and performance goals.
At Goldfarb & Associates, we stock thousands of new, used, and remanufactured turbochargers from trusted suppliers worldwide. Our diesel turbocharger range includes options from industry-leading brands such as Garrett, Air Research, CAV, Delphi, Holset, and more.
Browse our full inventory online, or contact us today to speak with a turbocharger expert. Your next upgrade starts with the right advice and the right parts.
