Turbochargers are designed to last for the service life of the engine.
Some tips for achieving longevity of the turbocharger Turbochargers are designed to last for the service life of the engine. One condition for achieving longevity is exact compliance with the engine manufacturer’s servicing specifications – such as oil change intervals and oil-filter system maintenance. How turbocharger damage is caused? Defects on the turbocharger most likely can be caused by a few main reasons. If there is insufficient lubrication, the bearings will fail and the compressor and turbine wheels grind against their housings. Contaminated oil leads to oil bore holes become clogged which respectively causes insufficient oil supply. Foreign bodies can damage the turbine or compressor wheels. What must be followed when handling turbochargers? The turbocharger is a technically complex unit with precisely matched components which components reach speeds of up to 300 000 rpm. Their individual components are made to minimum manufacturing tolerances. Maintenance and replacement should therefore be carried out by suitably qualified personnel. What is important here is use of special tools and machines, for example for balancing, adjustment and testing. Turbocharger design is optimized for a specific engine type at the manufacturing plant. For this reason, no adjustments or modifications should be made to them. Only use engine oil recommended by the manufacturer. Any deviation in viscosity may cause incorrect lubrication and damage the turbocharger. Some tips to car owners. If the turbocharger is producing any unusual noises, oil leaks, or vibrations, stop the engine and have it checked by a technician. After starting the engine, it takes about 30 seconds until the oil flows completely through the oil circuit. Only then may you rev the engine at high speed. If the engine was running at high speeds, do not shut it off immediately. The reason is that the turbocharger will continue to run without sufficient lubrication. Therefore, before shutting down the engine, let it run at idle for about 20 seconds.
Source: (MAHLE turbo tips)