How Much Does a Turbo Cost?

Are you searching for the answer to ”how much does a turbo costs” to get an estimate of what you will spend to install a turbo on your car?

Look no further because you are at the right place. We have analyzed the current price of turbochargers and several factors that might add to the cost of installing a turbo, and you can find them in this article.

A turbocharger is a device that helps improve the power output of your car. It can be pretty expensive to install, but it can be pretty helpful as well,

As you read further in this article, you will know lots more about turbos and see if you can afford to have one installed in your car.

What Is a Turbo?

A turbocharger, popularly called a turbo, is a turbomachine that forcefully sends extra air to the combustion unit to improve combustion and engine output power.

The commonly known kinds of turbocharged machines are Aircraft, automobiles, trucks, trains, and heavy machinery.

Also Read: How Much Hp Does a Turbo Add?

How Does a Turbo Work?

In theory, a turbo is a pump that operates at a very high temperature and forces more air into an engine.

A Turbo can produce more power, improve engine performance, and reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emission.

The Turbo can be found between the exhaust pipe and exhaust manifold. As the exhaust gas leaves the engine, it turns a turbine that drives a compressor bringing in air and pressuring it.

The Turbo is lubricated as the engine oil passes through it. Turbos are well-structured composite engineering modules built to withstand many millimeters. It has a compressor, turbine, and supporting bearing linked with a shaft.

The waste energy that comes from the exhaust gas drives the Turbo. The gas enters through the turbine casing, turns the turbine blade, and moves out using the exhaust exit.

Turbo housings and turbine wheels are made from materials that can withstand high temperatures because exhaust gas temperatures can reach 950 degrees Celcius.

The load and speed of the engine determine the velocity of the turbine. When the engine is idle, the turbine velocity will be higher, and there will be more gas intake to move via the housing.

The turbine revolves swiftly at full steam; the turbine wheel can also run at about 360 thousand rpm, about six thousand speeds per second.

The turbine is linked with the compressor wheel by a power steel shaft and driven by a rotating turbine. The compressor housing gets air through the compressor wheel.

The air is compressed as the blade rotates at high rpm. The way the housing is designed helps convert the low pressure, high-velocity airflow into a high pressure, low-velocity airflow at the exit section.

The compressor receives the air at room temperature and leaves it at about 200 degrees Celsius. As air pressure rises, the density of the air falls, reducing power.

As a result, its frequency is sent via a charged intercooler or air cooler, which cools the heated pressurized air with air or water.

A forged shaft connects the compressor and the turbine and moves through the bearing housing that is lubricated by the engine oil.

Oil is supplied at a given pressure to the bearing housing, thrust system and journal bearing. Besides serving as a coolant, the oil also removes heat from the turbine. Between the shaft and the bearing, a film of oil floats between the bearing and the housing.

These oil film clearance are pretty necessary. There are unique seals on the end of each airing housing. Unlike traditional seals of engine oil, they’re made to withstand the turbocharger‘s high pressure and temperatures, and they assist in preventing oil from leaking into the turbine or compressor housing.

Check out this video for further explanation on how turbos work

What is the Difference between Turbochargers and superchargers?

Turbochargers and superchargers are both powerful devices and unique components. Here are some of the differences

1. Regarding speed, a supercharger may generate more power within a shorter time than a turbocharger.
2. A significant factor is the price: A Turbo costs are significantly more pocket-friendly than the cost of a supercharger.
3. Turbochargers struggle with heating difficulties, whereas electric superchargers do not have such issues.
4. Turbos are not as loud as superchargers.
5. The fuel efficiency of the turbocharger is superior to superchargers because it operates at a lower average RPM rate.

We recommend the Supercharger because it is much more overall dependable.

Also Read: Procharger vs Supercharger (Differences, Pros & Cons)

Factors That Influence How Much a Turbo Costs?

There are lots of factors that may influence turbo installation cost. They include:

1. Hardware Costs

Turbo kits can cost anything from $500 for a simple setup to more than $5000 for an advanced solution. The cost of the kit will be determined by the component quality and that of the brand. You will get various turbo kits at the market, so carry out proper research before buying one.

You should ensure to get a kit that will be compatible with your car. Installation instructions are included in almost all turbo kits.

However, we advise having the kit installed by a professional as it will be much safer.

A few extra components will be needed to ensure that the Turbo runs well after installation. These standards differ from vehicle to vehicle.

An improved intercooler, pipes, and a charged air cooler are among these extra needed components. In addition, powerful injectors, fuel pumps, and a larger radiator are also required.

These supporting modifications are likely to cost about $2000.

Buying old kits and parts can help you save money on hardware prices; this will lower the overall cost to Turbo a car and allow you to save more.

2. Labor Costs

The typical labor cost for turbocharger installation on an average vehicle is around $500; you will also have to account for the labor costs of supporting mods, if necessary.

If you are capable of installing the turbo kit yourself, you will be able to save about half of the cost. However, paying an experienced professional to perform this task is safer.

Nonetheless, if you know how to work on engines, go ahead and save some money by doing the installation yourself, although it will take you a few weekends to finish.

3. Software / Tuning Costs

The software must be tweaked for your automobile to perform effectively after installing an aftermarket turbo. The reason for this is that the turbo kit alters the pressure and airflow in the engine, affecting the amount and timing of fuel injection.

Your automobile may run on too much fuel (rich) or insufficient fuel (lean) without fine-tuning, resulting in engine damage.

A professional tuner can adjust the software in your car, and it usually costs between $500 and $1000.

It is essential to highlight that you should only try to modify your car’s software if you’re familiar with working on automobiles and have a thorough knowledge of how engines operate.

Engine damage can be caused by improper software adjustment; if unsure, it is advisable to get advice from a specialist.

You may need to pay other potential charges depending on the vehicle you want to turbocharge. Some of these changes are

4. Standalone ECU

Turbocharging naturally aspirated vehicles requires a standalone ECU for several reasons.

Firstly, you will have more control and power over the engine management system. This implies that you can fine-tune the engine more precisely for maximum performance.

Secondly, it can assist and prevent engine damage by managing the too much stress the turbocharger induces on the engine.

Finally, since you have a particular ECU dedicated to the engine, you will have nothing to panic about.

A Standalone ECU has a hefty price tag. (Depending on the ECU you choose, the price ranges from $2000 to $10000.)

5. Forged/Built Engine

When adding a turbo, a typical reason it is essential to forge some engine internals is that the stock piston may not be able to handle the cylinder pressure at high rpm.

Forged Engine internals can assist in strengthening these sections to tolerate increased cylinder loads and pressures.

Before constructing these forged engine internals, be sure of how much power can push through the engine and how much can be handled by the factory.

From what has been elaborated above, the cost of turbocharging a car will cost about $1,000-$25,000, or even more depending on the necessary tuning and hardware, the new component quality, and if most of the job was done by you or by a professional.

It is important to add that while it is feasible to Turbo a car on a budget or lower cost, this may end up causing problems in the long run.

How to Reduce the Cost to Turbo a Car?

Don’t be discouraged by the required cost of parts or expenses. Ask your mechanic to make a list of all the components needed.

However, do not purchase them from a mechanic or a regular auto store. Instead, search for the parts on an online auto store. Because you’re cutting out the middleman, you can nearly get a considerably better offer online.

Numerous excellent aftermarket turbochargers can pass as an original manufacturer turbochargers. These aftermarket turbochargers are suitable, and the prices are way lower.

Why Install a Turbo to a Car?

There are different reasons why people want to install a turbo in their car, and the most popular are listed below:

1. More Engine Power

People opt to install a turbocharger in their naturally aspirated vehicle to improve the car’s power significantly. Using a turbocharger increases the amount of air flowing through the engine, allowing more fuel to be burned and generating more power.

So this might be a very enticing alternative for people who wish to improve their car power.

2. Better Fuel Economy

Saving money from fuel costs is another reason why people install turbochargers. More fuel is consumed when a vehicle’s engine is pushed to work too much.

On the other hand, a turbocharger can improve the efficiency of an engine and consume less fuel overall since it gives greater power when needed but not always. This might be a huge benefit for those looking to save money on fuel.

3. Turbo Cars Are More Fun To Drive

Lastly, some persons prefer the adrenaline rush of driving a turbocharged vehicle. Something is thrilling about having additional power on hand with the knowledge that you can utilize whenever you need it.

For many people, this could be the most enjoyable mode of transportation. Adding a turbocharger can be a terrific way to boost performance, manage your car fuel, and have fun while driving.

Should You Turbo Your Car?

You can greatly improve the performance of your engine is via turbocharging it, although you should consider a few things before adding one to your car. Before installing a turbocharger, think about the following points:

1. How Much Power Would You Like to Add?

A turbocharger can significantly increase your engine’s power, so before you choose the correct turbocharger, the amount of power you want to add must first be defined.

2. Are You Looking For Instant Acceleration, or Are You Willing to Wait for the Turbocharger to Spool Up?

If you want instant power, a smaller turbocharger with low boost pressure can serve. In contrast, if you need the power to respond instantly, a turbocharger with a higher boost pressure is an option.

3. What Is Your Budget?

The cost of a turbocharger can be anywhere from $500 to $5,000. Therefore you will need to figure out how much you’re prepared to pay before selecting the proper turbocharger.

4. Are You Willing to Modify Your Car in Other Ways?

Please use the bolt-on turbocharger kit if you don’t want to make any other modifications; then, you have a selection of turbochargers.

Is Adding a Turbo to Your Car Worth it?

Before you decide to add a turbocharger to your car, there are a few things you need to think about. The first is the financial aspect. This may not be ideal for you if you’re on a limited budget.

The installation procedure is the second factor to consider. Adding a turbocharger is not as easy as installing an exhaust system.

It necessitates specific abilities as well as mechanical understanding. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this job, you’ll need to get an expert to carry out the task.

Finally, you have to evaluate the impact on your vehicle’s dependability. For example, adding a turbocharger can increase the stress on your engine, perhaps causing premature tear and wear.

If you are unwilling to take this risk, you should forget the thought of adding a turbocharger.

If you have considered all of these factors and still believe a turbocharger is the best for you, go for it! Nothing beats the sensation of boost turning on and hearing that beautiful turbo spool up. Ensure you do your homework to avoid any future problems.

Frequently Asked Questions – How Much Does a Turbo Cost

Conclusion – How Much Does a Turbo Cost

The cost of adding a turbo to your car will range from $500 to $5,000. This depends on the car, the situation, and the resources available to you. Finding a balance between getting a low price and making sure everything is done to the highest quality will ensure satisfaction with the end result.

We hope this post was of help to you. Please feel free to check out our other blog articles if you want to get more tips for preventing car troubles!