With winter approaching and temperatures dropping, it is essential to remember that the cold directly affects car combustion engine components, especially turbocharged engines. This situation requires extra attention to avoid wear and possible breakages, especially when it comes to the process of turning off the engine after trips.
For turbo engines, both gasoline and diesel, the answer is simple: yes, it is recommended to wait before turning off the engine, leaving it idling for around two minutes. This practice, which may seem like a mere detail, is crucial to extending the turbocharger’s useful life and preventing mechanical failures.
But why wait? According to , the turbo is the engine component that reaches the highest temperatures. It acts as a compressor that forces compressed air into the cylinders, resulting in a significant increase in temperature. When the engine is turned off abruptly, the oil pump, responsible for maintaining lubrication, also stops, interrupting the flow of oil to the turbo. Without this immediate lubrication, the turbo bearings are more prone to premature wear, which can result in breakdowns and, in the worst case, the need to replace components.
By keeping the engine idling for a few minutes before turning it off, the turbo temperature is allowed to gradually drop and the oil to continue circulating, reducing the risk of overheating and excessive wear. This practice is especially recommended after long trips or situations in which the engine was working intensely, such as on a highway journey.
And when starting the car?
On cold days, starting the car also requires some additional care. When the engine starts, especially after it has been cold overnight, the oil becomes more viscous due to the low temperature and needs time to circulate properly and lubricate the components. Therefore, it is advisable to let the engine warm up at idle speed before starting to drive, avoiding sudden accelerations until the engine reaches the ideal operating temperature.
In cold conditions, the viscosity of the oil can make immediate lubrication difficult, which affects engine performance and durability. By giving the oil time to heat up, it allows for more efficient circulation and reduces wear during the first engine revolutions.
Essential care for a healthy engine in winter
At low temperatures, the warm-up and wait routine, before turning off the engine, becomes essential to ensure smoother performance and extend the useful life of the components. Small gestures of maintenance and specific care are, after all, the greatest allies of those who want to keep their car in ideal conditions during the winter.
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