Alfa Romeo 
In recent years, turbochargers have become a common feature in many cars. Whether you drive a small hatchback or a large SUV, there is a good chance that your vehicle is equipped with a turbocharger. But what exactly is a turbo, and why have they gained such widespread popularity to the point where they come as standard in many modern car models?
How Does a Turbo Work?
The function of a turbocharger can be broken down into a few key steps.
The exhaust gasses that are produced by the engine are usually released after combustion. However, when a car features a turbocharger, these exhaust gases are used to drive a turbine instead. This turbine is on one end of a shaft and on the other end is a compressor. When the exhaust gases turn the compressor, it draws in more air from outside.
The compressed air is then moved into the engine’s combustion chamber. Because this air is denser, it contains more oxygen which is required to burn fuel. Importantly, this means more fuel can be burned more efficiently with the same-sized engine. The improved combustion causes a more powerful explosion within the engine cylinders which results in a greater power output.
Why Are Turbos So Popular?
Turbochargers have become popular for several reasons, and many of these apply to everyday drivers.
Fuel Efficiency: One of the significant advantages of turbocharged engines is their ability to provide more power without consuming more fuel. By allowing smaller engines to produce power equivalent to larger engines, turbos help to maintain a good fuel economy. This is particularly beneficial in a time when fuel efficiency is a major concern for car manufacturers and drivers alike.
Environmental Benefits: Turbochargers contribute to lower emissions. Since an engine with a turbocharger can produce more power from the same amount of fuel, it can run more efficiently and produce fewer emissions per mile. As a result, this type of car is typically much more environmentally friendly than conventional cars without a turbocharger.
Smooth Driving Experience: Turbochargers can significantly improve the driving experience. They provide a smoother and more responsive ride, particularly when accelerating. This makes daily driving more enjoyable and can be especially beneficial in situations where quick acceleration is needed, such as merging onto a motorway or overtaking other vehicles.
Space and Weight Saving: Turbochargers allow for smaller engines, which are lighter and take up less space. This can result in a lighter overall vehicle, which in turn can improve handling and further contribute to fuel efficiency. The reduced weight and size can also provide more interior space for passengers and cargo, adding to the car’s practicality.
Widespread Adoption: The technology behind turbochargers has become more refined and reliable over the years. This has led to their widespread adoption in a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to large trucks. As a result, many drivers may find themselves behind the wheel of a car with a turbocharger without specifically seeking one out.
Common Misconceptions
Despite their popularity, there are still some misconceptions about turbochargers. One common myth is that turbos are only for high-performance sports cars. While it’s true that turbos were initially popular in racing and high-performance vehicles, their benefits have made them a common feature in everyday cars as well.
With an increasing focus on harmful emissions and sustainability, many car manufacturers have begun designing their vehicles with turbos as standard. For example, 57% of cars that were produced around the world in 2022 featured a turbocharger. Part of the reason for this is that modern turbochargers are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Turbo Maintenance and Care
If your car has a turbo, it’s important to follow some basic maintenance tips to keep it running smoothly. Regular oil changes are important because turbos operate at very high speeds and temperatures, and clean oil is essential for their lubrication. It’s also advisable to allow the engine to warm up properly before driving and to let it cool down for a few moments after a long or hard drive. This can help prevent excessive wear on the turbocharger components.
If your car features a turbocharger you may need to consider a replacement at some point. Here at Essex Turbos, we want to provide our customers with the most reliable and cost-effective options which is why we offer both new OEM and reconditioned models.
Understanding what a turbo is and why it’s popular can help you appreciate the technology under the bonnet of your car, even if you’re not a car enthusiast. So, the next time you drive your turbocharged vehicle, you can enjoy the ride knowing a bit more about what makes it tick.
If you have any further questions about your turbocharger or if you need some help finding the right turbo model for your car, simply get in touch today.