After finally saving enough money for a down payment on a new car, I was really excited about customizing it and really making it my own. I spent a lot of time going through and thinking of different ways to make the vehicle unique, and it was exciting to see how far it was able to come. I completely replaced the seat covers, overhauled the electronics, and gave the engine a serious tune-up. When I was finished, the car ran like a gem, and it looked even better. This blog is all about enjoying your new vehicle and not taking great features for granted.
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If you're a car enthusiast who wants to squeeze the maximum amount of horsepower out of your engine, an aftermarket turbo kit is the ultimate modification. However, there are a few downsides to consider before you dive into the world of forced induction.
Supporting Modifications Are Expensive
You need much more than just the turbocharger itself to turbo your engine, so make sure your budget includes supporting modifications. First of all, you need a special exhaust manifold just to mount the turbocharger unit. You also need a modified intake and intercooler system to connect the turbocharger outlet to your engine's intake manifold.
To compensate for the increased airflow produced by a turbocharger, many engines also require larger fuel injectors and aftermarket fuel pumps. Finally, you'll need aftermarket ECU software to tune your engine's fuel system so that it runs smoothly.
Reliability Might Be an Issue
Most engines aren't built to withstand drastically increased amounts of horsepower. Turbocharging your engine will put a lot of additional stress on your engine's internal components such as the pistons, crankshaft, and connecting rods. Your drivetrain will also undergo much more stress transferring all of that extra power to pavement. Turbocharging your car may create reliability issues with your transmission, axles, and other drivetrain components. Finally, turbochargers generate a lot of extra heat in your engine bay. On some vehicles, overheating can become an issue unless you install an upgraded radiator and cooling vents.
If you plan to use your turbocharged car as your daily driver, it's a good idea to set aside a budget for unexpected repairs. That way, if any stock engine or drivetrain components fail, you can replace them with upgraded aftermarket components designed to handle the increased stress of a modified engine.
Failing Smog Tests
Depending on where you live, some aftermarket turbo kits may be illegal. For example, California has especially strict emissions standards that restrict many aftermarket engine modifications. If your turbocharger kit doesn't adhere to the California Air Resources Board's emissions standards, your car will likely fail its next smog test.
Even in less strict locales, some aftermarket turbo kits may not adhere to state emissions guidelines. That can lead to you being cited for illegal modifications during a routine traffic stop. In some cases, you won't be able to renew your car's registration at your next smog test. To avoid those hassles, make sure all of your aftermarket modifications are certified and compatible with your state's emissions guidelines.
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