3 Tips For Protecting Your Turbocharged Foreign Vehicle

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Owning and operating a vehicle can be a challenge. From finding the means to purchase it to ensuring it is fueled and insured, the many stresses are easy to see. Of course, maintenance is also a key part of owning a vehicle if you want it to run in the most effective manner. If you own a vehicle made by a foreign company, you may think it does not require as much service. Also, if you own a vehicle with a turbocharger that enhances the engine performance, you may think it is more durable and requires less service than other vehicles with traditional engines. These are both myths. This guide will teach you a few simple tips to maintain your turbocharged foreign vehicle.

Oil Changes

As your engine heats up, it burns oil, which can decrease the amount of lubrication your engine has. In addition, dirt, dust, and other debris will build up in your oil, preventing your engine from burning clean oil, which can lead to problems for your vehicle's operation. Checking and changing your oil regularly is imperative, but you probably already understand this importance.

What you may not understand is that each vehicle manufacturer has their own recommendations on when it is the best time to change the oil. These recommendations may differ if you have a turbocharged engine.

Certain manufacturers believe oil changes are only necessary every 7,500 miles, but turbocharged engines that allow more air into the engine will require oil changes more frequently. If you have a new vehicle, change the turbocharged engine's oil at 3,000 miles and then every 5,000 miles after.

Also, consider using synthetic oil only. Synthetic oil is capable of withstanding high heat, which your turbocharged engine will create.

Again, it is best to ask your vehicle's manufacturer for specific recommendations, such as Audi service recommendations.

Air Filter

The engine's air filter is more important than you may think. It traps dirt, dust, and other debris, preventing it from flowing into the engine. If the air filter is clogged with debris, your engine will struggle to operate in the most efficient way. Also, a clogged air filter prevents airflow, which is essential for your turbocharged engine to perform at its best.

Again, all manufacturers have different recommendations on when to replace the air filter, but you should use some common sense, too.

Inspect your air filter regularly. If it is visibly clogged with dirt and dust, replace it. Since it is an inexpensive part that serves a big purpose, the small expense will be a great investment.

If your air filter looks clean, but you know it has not been replaced in a long period of time, focus on your mileage. Certain manufacturers recommend replacing the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but if you drive your vehicle more aggressively or on rough terrain or dirt/gravel roads, you may need to replace the filter more frequently.

Most people are surprised to learn that a clean air filter can improve gas mileage and even increase acceleration depending on your specific vehicle.

Operate

The manner in which you operate and drive your turbocharged foreign vehicle can also affect its performance and life span.

If you tend to drive more aggressively, accelerating excessively and braking hard and fast, you will place extra stress on the engine. If you have the option to shift gears, shift the gears instead of relying on the automatic transmission when accelerating and braking. Shifting the gears places less stress on the transmission and engine.

Finally, allow your vehicle to warm up and cool down properly. Before you start driving, turn your vehicle on to allow the engine to heat up. This ensures the oil is ready for the upcoming heat. To ensure your engine has a chance to cool down before parking it, drive slower in the last few minutes and let your vehicle run for a few minutes before shutting the engine off.

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