Ensuring the right oil specification is used is not only important for the engine of a vehicle, but also to ensure the performance and long life of the turbocharger. This fact has been highlighted by Team P R Reilly and their partners at North Sea Lubricants who invest heavily in producing tools and materials to make getting and using the right oil spec simple.

On today’s roads more than 90% of diesel passenger cars are fitted with a turbocharger. This figure is set to grow further as industry experts predict a rapid increase in the presence of turbochargers in petrol engine vehicles over the next few years. Turbochargers increase engine power while at the same time they improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Manufacturers see turbo chargers as the key to producing the type of compact, low emission, efficient engines demanded by the latest environmental regulations.

NSL says that contrary to popular belief less than 1% of turbocharger failures are due to mechanical fault. The main culprit in turbo failures is in fact oil, with some 90% of failures due to a range of oil related issues. Oil starvation, oil contamination or leaks, wrong oil or poor filtration all contribute to failure. This is why it is vital that mechanics and motorists alike understand the importance of using the correct manufacturer specified oil on vehicles. 

The average turbo spins at 240,000 rpm putting it under tremendous stress. The turbine shaft and bearings rely on constant protection by an extremely thin film of oil. Without proper oil protection the bearings become scratched, scored and rapidly fail. Running a turbo without oil for five seconds is as harmful as running an engine without oil for five minutes.

Preventing turbocharger failure by selecting the right oil for a given vehicle is essential. This is why Team P R Reilly and their partners at North Sea Lubricants invest so much in producing application data.  A wide range of informational material is available enabling mechanics to offer greater insight to customers on the importance of using manufacturer specified oil for both engine and turbo protection. 

To learn more about using manufacturer specified oils, NSL products and offers contact the Team P R Reilly sales team, email: sales@team.ie or call 01-832-0006.