The turbocharger needs oil because it spins fast.  

High speeds create heat, so good oil flow and cooling are key to keep your turbocharger lasting longer. 

What commonly causes Turbocharger breakdowns?

Damage from foreign objects (often in suction)

• Engine fragments like valve pieces can hit the turbine wheel. Bad filter upkeep also lets particles (sand, gravel, impurities) into the turbo, hitting the compressor wheel propellers. 
• Damage to propellers causes turbine imbalance  
• This leads to vibrations, which get worse over time, causing severe damage and turbo failure. 
• On-site turbine checks aren't always possible, so ensure the engine is healthy and air filters are good to avoid early damage. 
• If you can inspect the turbine (remove intake sleeve), move the turbine up and down. Look for excess play or marks on the propellers, which suggest balancing issues.  
• If so, overhaul or replace the turbocharger to prevent damage to other engine parts. 

Sudden engine shutdown at high RPM and/or without a cooling down period 

Turn off the engine at idle to let the turbocharger cool down for 30 to 40 seconds. 

This short time helps the cooling system remove heat from the turbine, stopping temperatures over 900°C inside the turbocharger, which can cause carbonization. 

Improper turbocharged engine warm-up matters too. Rapid expansion in a cold engine may crack parts from thermal shock. Respect warm-up and cool-down times to prevent early damage. 

Overheating  

Turbocharged engines run hotter than old naturally aspirated engines → More power means more heat. Excess heat can break or warp heat shields and turbine housing, deforming the turbine or melting parts. Keep engine compartment airways clear by cleaning radiators and hood grilles. 

Low level or lack of engine oil  

Turbines spin super fast (>100,000 rpm). Even a quick lack of oil can do serious and pricey damage. 

• Ignoring engine oil change timing
  A turbocharger isn't airtight. Oil can leak from the bearing housing, letting exhaust enter oil. If you don't change the oil often, combustion deposits can load the oil, changing its thickness. This reduces oil flow in the turbocharger, risking turbine blockage. 
• Lubrication system problems  
  Check for visible damage or blockage in the lubrication system. 
• Using correct lubrication fittings  
  Make sure lubrication circuit fittings suit the turbocharger to keep oil reaching the main bearings. 

Incorrect engine design  

Some turbochargers often fail if the engine isn't made for the job, like in very heavy vehicles with small engines, or when small engines have been over-tuned. This can cause high lubrication oil pressure that damages the turbine shaft. 

Signs of a faulty turbocharger

• High engine oil use 
  Worn turbo seals let oil into the intake system. 
• High fuel use
  Turbocharged engines have a precise air/fuel mix. A faulty turbo affects airflow, worsening combustion and raising fuel use. 
• Bluish smoke
  Blue exhaust gas shows oil combustion. If the turbo's the problem, you'll see blue smoke at idle and during regular work. 
• Engine oil leaks
  Oil can leak near intercooler clamps if the engine sits unused long. If leaks persist during use, check the turbocharger condition. 
• Long-lasting or loud turbocharger “whistle”
  A turbocharger creates high air flows, sometimes causing a “whistle.” If this whistle is constant or high-pitched, it's a sign of a fault in the bearings or turbine. Check the turbocharger condition if this happens. 
• Power loss
  Most power in a turbocharged engine comes from the turbo. If it's damaged, you lose significant performance. 

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