Do Turbocharged Vehicles Require More Maintenance?

If you currently own a vehicle with a turbocharged engine, you may wonder whether it requires more maintenance, like spark plug and oil changes, compared to naturally aspirated engines. Here are some helpful examples to help you learn more.

Dodge

Dodge recommends switching the spark plugs on the Dart’s turbocharged 1.4 liter four-cylinder engine every 30,000 miles. On a 2.0 or 2.4 liter naturally aspirated engine, this is only required every 100,000 miles.

There isn’t a schedule for oil changes recommended by Dodge, but they recommend that it be done when the oil change indicator says it’s time. This monitors how many short trips you take, the temperature outside and driving conditions.

Hyundai

On the Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe, the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, it’s recommended by the manufacturer that owners change the oil every 7,500 miles or a minimum of once annually. For a Hyundai with a turbocharged 2.0 liter engine, the manufacturer recommends the first oil change after 3,000 miles or six months. Afterward, it’s recommended that it be changed every 5,000 miles or six months. The turbo 2.0 liter also requires the spark plugs to be changed more frequently — about every 45,000 miles or three years, compared to a 2.4 liter engine, which only requires they be changed every 105,000 miles or seven years.

More Generally

These are only two examples from two manufacturers, but it does reveal the fact that there can be some differences in maintenance schedules for standard and turbocharged vehicles. Of course, the biggest impact on your maintenance needs will come from the way you use your turbo engine. If you’re flooring the throttle regularly, it will only put more stress on the engine, tires, brakes, transmission, and suspension, leading to more maintenance.

Honest Accurate Auto Service does not install turbo kits, but can work on all systems in a turbocharged vehicle. We can help you keep your vehicle running at peak performance with quality auto repair in Colorado Springs.

If you are convinced you need a little extra boost in horse power from turbo kits or turbo upgrades, you can check out TurboKits.com!