Introduction
Turbochargers have revolutionized the automotive industry, offering incredible power gains and efficiency improvements. However, with great performance comes great misinformation. There are countless myths floating around about turbochargers, many of which lead to unnecessary upgrades, poor maintenance habits, or unrealistic expectations. In this blog, we’re busting some of the most common turbo myths and separating fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Bigger Turbos Always Make More Power
The Truth:
While a larger turbo has the potential to produce more power, it’s not always the best choice for every setup. A turbo that’s too large for your engine may suffer from excessive turbo lag, meaning it takes longer for the boost to build. A properly sized turbo, matched to your engine’s displacement and intended use, will always yield the best balance of power, response, and efficiency.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need a Tune After Installing an Upgraded Turbo
The Truth:
This is one of the fastest ways to blow your engine. An upgraded or performance designed turbo dramatically increases air intake, and without a proper tune, your air-fuel ratio can be dangerously lean, leading to detonation, overheating, and potential engine failure. Always get a professional ECU tune after upgrading or modifying your turbo system.
Myth #3: Running Higher Boost Pressure Equals More Power
The Truth:
While increasing boost can result in more horsepower, it’s not as simple as turning up the boost controller. Your fuel system, intercooler, and engine internals must support the additional power. More boost also means more heat, which can lead to detonation and turbo failure if not managed properly. Always consider supporting mods like a better fuel pump, upgraded injectors, and a proper intercooler before cranking up the boost.
Myth #4: Blow-Off Valves Add Horsepower
The Truth:
A blow-off valve (BOV) does not directly increase power—it simply helps protect your turbo by releasing excess pressure when you lift off the throttle. While a high-quality BOV can improve the longevity of your turbo system, don’t expect horsepower gains just from installing one.
Myth #5: You Need to Let Your Turbo Idle Before Shutting Off
The Truth:
This myth stems from older, oil-cooled turbochargers. Modern turbo systems, especially those with water-cooled center sections, don’t require extended idling before shutting off. However, if you’ve been driving hard, letting the engine idle for 30-60 seconds can help lower turbo temperatures and prevent oil coking inside the bearings. Alternatively, a turbo timer can automate this process.
Myth #6: Turbocharged Engines Are Less Reliable
The Truth:
A properly maintained turbocharged engine can last just as long as a naturally aspirated one. The key is regular oil changes, using high-quality synthetic oil, monitoring boost levels, and ensuring proper cooling. Factory turbo engines are built to handle boost, but poorly tuned or over-boosted setups will shorten an engine’s lifespan.
Myth #7: Aftermarket Turbo Kits Are Always Better Than Stock Turbos
The Truth:
Stock turbochargers are designed for reliability and efficiency, while aftermarket kits prioritize power. While upgrading to an aftermarket turbo can unlock more horsepower, many stock turbos are highly efficient and can be upgraded with billet wheels, ported compressor housings, and tuning before considering a full swap.
Conclusion
Turbochargers are an incredible tool for making power, but misinformation can lead to costly mistakes. Whether you're looking to upgrade your turbo system or simply maintain your current setup, understanding these common myths will help you make better, more informed decisions. Do your research, invest in quality parts, and always get a professional tune!
