Turbochargers have revolutionized engine performance, delivering more power and efficiency from smaller displacement engines.
By forcing extra air into the combustion chamber, turbos can significantly boost horsepower and torque. However, with these performance gains comes the challenge of reliability, particularly when it comes to oil consumption.
Turbochargers rely on a thin film of oil to lubricate their rapidly spinning shafts and bearings. When this lubrication system works perfectly, oil stays within the turbo and engine, ensuring long life and consistent performance.
Unfortunately, not all turbocharged engines are created equal in how they handle oil. Some turbo setups are engineered with exceptional sealing and cooling technologies that prevent oil leaks and burning, resulting in minimal oil consumption even under aggressive driving.
These turbos demonstrate impressive longevity and reliability, making them favorites among enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
On the other hand, there are turbochargers notorious for burning oil. Due to design limitations, poor sealing, or manufacturing compromises, these turbos often allow oil to leak into the intake or exhaust system.
This causes excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and in severe cases, fouled spark plugs or costly engine damage.
Understanding which turbochargers fall into these two categories helps car owners and buyers make smarter decisions about reliability, maintenance, and overall ownership costs.
In this article, we’ll explore five turbochargers that are known for their excellent oil control and five that frequently struggle with oil burning. This balanced view sheds light on the importance of design and upkeep in turbocharged vehicles.
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5 Turbochargers That Don’t Burn Oil
Turbochargers are high-performance components that spin at extremely high speeds—often over 150,000 RPM—and operate under intense heat. Given these demanding conditions, effective lubrication is critical to prevent premature wear and oil leakage.
Some turbochargers have proven their reliability over years of service by maintaining a tight seal between the oil supply and the intake/exhaust paths, while also managing heat efficiently.
These factors help prevent the turbo from burning oil, which otherwise leads to increased oil consumption, exhaust smoke, and even engine damage.
The turbochargers that do not burn oil typically feature advanced bearing designs, such as ball or journal bearings with superior seals, and optimized oil flow systems that minimize oil pooling or leakage.
Additionally, good heat dissipation prevents oil breakdown, which can cause sludge build-up and seal failure.
Manufacturers who invest in these technologies produce turbochargers that offer long-lasting performance without compromising engine health or fuel economy.
Another contributing factor is the quality of engine management systems. Precise control over fuel injection, ignition timing, and boost pressure can prevent conditions that would otherwise encourage oil burning, such as excessive blow-by gases or overly rich mixtures.
For drivers, owning a turbocharged car with a reliable, oil-tight turbocharger means less frequent oil top-ups, cleaner emissions, and reduced repair costs. These turbos also tend to maintain peak performance for longer periods.
In this section, we’ll examine five turbochargers widely regarded for their excellent oil control and durability.
These examples demonstrate how thoughtful engineering and high-quality manufacturing can significantly enhance turbocharger longevity and overall engine reliability.
1. Garrett GT3582R (Used on Various Performance Cars)
The Garrett GT3582R turbocharger is one of the most respected models in the performance and tuning community, known not only for its power potential but also for its excellent oil control and durability.
Unlike older turbo designs that rely on traditional journal bearings, the GT3582R utilizes advanced ball bearing technology.
This significantly reduces friction and wear, allowing the turbo to spin more freely and efficiently while maintaining a strong seal against oil leakage.
One key reason this turbocharger doesn’t burn oil is its meticulously engineered oil channel system. Garrett’s design ensures that oil flows consistently to lubricate the shaft and bearings without pooling inside the turbine housing or leaking into the intake or exhaust.
This is crucial because any oil that escapes into the combustion chamber will be burned off, leading to blue smoke and increased oil consumption.
Moreover, the GT3582R benefits from an efficient oil return system. Oil that lubricates the bearings drains quickly and completely, reducing the risk of oil accumulation that can degrade seals over time.
The combination of precise machining and high-quality seals minimizes oil bypass, which is a common cause of oil burning in less sophisticated turbos.
This turbo is widely used on cars like the Ford Focus RS, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and various other sporty models, both from the factory and in aftermarket setups.
Owners consistently report minimal oil consumption even after thousands of miles of spirited driving. Additionally, its robust construction withstands the high temperatures and pressures typical of forced induction, further protecting oil integrity.
Garrett’s commitment to quality materials and design has made the GT3582R a benchmark for reliability.
For enthusiasts seeking a turbocharger that balances power, efficiency, and low maintenance, the GT3582R stands out as a prime example of how engineering advancements reduce oil burning and extend turbo life.
2. BorgWarner EFR 6758
The BorgWarner EFR 6758 turbocharger is widely praised in the automotive performance world for combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional durability, particularly in terms of oil consumption and sealing.
What sets the EFR series apart is its innovative use of ceramic ball bearings and an integrated cooling system that work together to preserve oil quality and prevent leaks — two critical factors in preventing turbo oil burning.
Ceramic ball bearings have significantly lower friction compared to traditional steel bearings, reducing heat generation inside the turbocharger’s bearing housing.
Excess heat is a major enemy of oil seals and can cause oil to degrade or vaporize, leading to leaks or oil entering the intake system.
By using ceramic bearings, BorgWarner effectively lowers internal operating temperatures, maintaining a stable oil film and preserving the health of the seals over extended use.
Another crucial aspect of the EFR 6758’s design is its highly efficient oil and coolant cooling passages. The turbocharger integrates a dual water and oil cooling system that quickly removes heat from the bearing housing.
This not only extends the life of the oil but also prevents the buildup of sludge and varnish that can compromise oil flow and seal integrity.
The turbo’s robust oil return system ensures that oil does not pool inside the housing, which helps avoid common problems like oil coking — a major cause of oil burning in turbochargers.
The EFR 6758 is favored by many tuners and OEMs for its reliability in both street and track applications, demonstrating excellent oil control even under demanding driving conditions.
It is found in a variety of vehicles and aftermarket builds where owners prioritize durability alongside high performance.
Owners frequently report negligible oil consumption and no blue smoke issues, even after long periods of hard use. This is a testament to BorgWarner’s meticulous engineering focus on balancing extreme performance with longevity.
In summary, the BorgWarner EFR 6758 stands as a premium example of a turbocharger designed to minimize oil burning, thanks to its advanced bearing technology, sophisticated cooling systems, and well-engineered oil flow paths.
For anyone seeking a reliable turbo that maintains engine cleanliness and efficiency, the EFR 6758 is an excellent choice.
3. Honeywell (Garrett) GT1446
The Honeywell GT1446 turbocharger is widely recognized for its efficiency and long service life, especially when it comes to oil consumption.
Found in several popular turbocharged models such as the Mini Cooper S and the Fiat 500 Abarth, the GT1446 has earned a reputation for robust oil control and durability in everyday driving conditions.
One of the critical reasons the GT1446 doesn’t burn oil excessively is its precise engineering of the oil lubrication system.
Garrett (now Honeywell) uses high-quality oil seals combined with an optimized oil feed and return system, which ensures that the oil lubricates the turbo bearings without seeping into the compressor or turbine housings.
This careful balance reduces oil leakage, one of the primary causes of oil burning in turbochargers.
Additionally, the GT1446 benefits from an efficient cooling system. Many turbochargers can suffer from heat soak, which causes the oil to break down and degrade seals.
The GT1446 incorporates an effective water and oil cooling circuit that prevents excessive heat buildup, maintaining the oil’s viscosity and preventing it from becoming sludge or vapor that can lead to leaks.
Owners of vehicles equipped with this turbo report very low oil consumption over tens of thousands of miles, even under spirited driving conditions.
The GT1446’s durability and consistent performance have made it a favorite choice in both OEM applications and some aftermarket setups.
Garrett’s strict quality control and use of durable materials in the GT1446 contribute to its longevity. It is engineered not only for performance but also for long-term reliability, minimising common issues such as oil burning that plague lesser turbochargers.
Overall, the GT1446 is an example of a turbocharger that effectively balances performance and reliability, offering drivers peace of mind with minimal maintenance concerns related to oil consumption.
4. Mitsubishi TD04L
The Mitsubishi TD04L turbocharger has long been a staple in many Japanese performance vehicles, including various Subaru and Volvo models.
Its reputation for durability, particularly in oil control, is one of the reasons it remains popular among enthusiasts who want dependable turbo performance without the headaches of excessive oil burning.
The TD04L features a simple yet robust design with a well-sealed shaft housing and a high-quality oil lubrication system.
Mitsubishi engineered this turbo with tight oil clearances and efficient oil return paths that prevent oil from pooling and escaping into the compressor or turbine wheels.
This reduces the risk of oil being burned in the combustion chamber, a common issue in lesser turbo designs.
Heat management also plays a key role in the TD04L’s oil longevity. The turbo benefits from effective water and oil cooling lines that keep operating temperatures in check. This prevents oil breakdown and seal deterioration, both of which contribute to oil leaks and burning.
Many drivers report that their TD04L-equipped vehicles consume minimal oil even after high-mileage use and track days. The turbo’s relatively simple design means fewer failure points and easier maintenance, further enhancing its reputation for reliability.
Mitsubishi’s focus on building a well-balanced, oil-efficient turbocharger has made the TD04L a standout choice for those wanting solid performance paired with minimal oil consumption issues. Its widespread use in both stock and upgraded vehicles highlights its dependable engineering.
5. IHI VF52 (Used on Some Subaru Models)
The IHI VF52 turbocharger is found on many Subaru models, including the popular WRX and Forester XT variants.
Known for its reliability and effective oil management, the VF52 is another turbocharger that stands out for not burning oil excessively when properly maintained.
One major reason the VF52 controls oil consumption well is its high-quality bearing system paired with efficient oil seal design.
The shaft housing seals are engineered to tightly contain oil, preventing it from leaking into the intake tract or exhaust. This is crucial because leaking oil can lead to blue smoke and increased oil consumption.
Additionally, Subaru’s implementation of the VF52 includes an effective oil and coolant cooling circuit, which ensures the turbo’s internals remain within optimal temperature ranges.
Cooler operating temperatures help maintain the integrity of the oil, preventing it from breaking down and causing seal damage.
Many owners praise the VF52 for maintaining low oil consumption even under spirited driving and high boost pressures. This longevity is partly due to Subaru’s reputation for quality turbo systems and their focus on balancing power with reliability.
While any turbocharger can develop issues if neglected, the VF52’s design minimizes common problems associated with oil burning. Regular oil changes and proper maintenance further extend its service life, making it a trusted choice among Subaru enthusiasts.
5 Turbochargers That Always Burn Oil
While turbochargers can greatly enhance engine power and efficiency, not all turbos are created equal—especially when it comes to oil consumption.
Unfortunately, some turbocharger models have gained a notorious reputation for burning oil excessively, leading to a host of problems for vehicle owners.
Turbochargers that burn oil often do so because of poor internal sealing, inadequate lubrication design, or heat management issues.
This oil burning manifests as blue smoke from the exhaust, higher oil consumption, fouled spark plugs, and sometimes even damage to the catalytic converter and engine.
Several factors can contribute to oil burning in turbos. One common cause is the failure of oil seals around the shaft housing, allowing pressurized oil to leak into the intake or exhaust.
Poor oil return flow can cause oil to pool inside the turbo, increasing the risk of seal breakdown and oil entering the combustion chamber.
Additionally, turbos that run excessively hot or lack effective cooling systems cause oil to degrade rapidly, resulting in varnish and sludge buildup that further compromise seals.
In this section, we will explore five turbochargers that are well-documented for their oil burning issues.
These turbos have been installed in various cars across different brands, where owners and mechanics alike have noted consistent problems with oil consumption and related maintenance headaches.
Understanding which turbochargers are prone to oil burning helps owners anticipate potential repairs and take preventive measures. It also highlights the importance of proper turbo design and maintenance in avoiding costly engine and emission system damage.
We’ll break down the reasons behind the oil burning tendencies of these five turbos, providing insight into their design flaws, typical symptoms, and what owners can expect if their vehicle is equipped with one.
1. Holset HE351CW (Common in Diesel Trucks)
The Holset HE351CW turbocharger, widely used in various heavy-duty diesel trucks, has gained notoriety for oil burning issues despite its strong performance credentials.
The turbo’s design features a large journal bearing system and relatively basic sealing arrangements, which can become problematic over time.
One primary issue lies in the turbo’s oil seals, which are prone to wear, especially under high-mileage conditions or inadequate oil maintenance.
These seals are responsible for keeping engine oil confined to the bearing housing, but when they start to degrade, pressurized oil can seep into the intake or exhaust, causing blue smoke and excessive oil consumption.
Another contributing factor is the turbo’s oil return path. If the oil return is partially blocked or inefficiently designed, oil can pool inside the turbo housing, accelerating seal wear and increasing the likelihood of oil leaks.
In heavy-duty use, such as towing or commercial hauling, these conditions become more prevalent, exacerbating oil burning problems.
Moreover, the HE351CW’s oil cooling system is not as advanced as modern turbos, which means it can run hotter, causing oil to break down faster. Heat-soaked oil loses its lubricating properties and becomes sludge-like, further compromising seal integrity.
Mechanics often report that owners of trucks with the HE351CW turbo face recurring oil consumption problems, requiring frequent top-ups and turbo rebuilds.
While the turbo offers impressive power and reliability when new, its propensity to burn oil is a significant downside, particularly in aging vehicles or those with poor maintenance histories.
2. Garrett GT2256V (Used on Many 2000s Diesel and Gasoline Models)
The Garrett GT2256V turbocharger is a popular unit found in a range of diesel and gasoline engines from the early 2000s. Despite its widespread use, it has become known for persistent oil burning issues that frustrate many owners.
The root cause often stems from the turbo’s traditional journal bearing design combined with suboptimal oil seal configurations.
Over time, the seals tend to wear or harden, especially if the vehicle experiences frequent short trips or inconsistent oil changes. This wear leads to oil leakage into the intake system and combustion chamber.
Additionally, the GT2256V’s oil return system can be prone to clogging, particularly if oil change intervals are neglected or poor-quality oil is used. This causes oil to stagnate within the turbo housing, accelerating seal degradation and increasing oil burning symptoms.
Another issue with the GT2256V is its relatively limited cooling capability compared to newer turbos. High operating temperatures cause oil to thin and lose lubricating properties, hastening seal failure and oil leaks.
Owners typically report blue exhaust smoke at startup or under boost, alongside increased oil consumption that can escalate rapidly if unchecked.
Repairing or replacing the turbo is a common fix, but without addressing underlying maintenance issues, the problem often returns.
The Garrett GT2256V serves as a cautionary example of how design limitations and maintenance neglect can combine to create a turbo prone to burning oil, resulting in increased running costs and frustration.
3. Garrett GT1749V (Common on Early 2000s Volkswagen and Audi Models)
The Garrett GT1749V turbocharger, widely used on many Volkswagen and Audi models from the early 2000s, has earned a reputation for persistent oil burning problems.
Despite its popularity and proven power delivery, the GT1749V’s oil consumption issues have been a frequent complaint among owners and mechanics alike.
One of the primary reasons the GT1749V burns oil is its journal bearing design combined with relatively basic oil sealing technology.
While journal bearings are common and cost-effective, they rely heavily on a consistent and clean oil supply to maintain proper lubrication and seal integrity. Any lapses in oil quality, pressure, or return flow can cause the seals to wear prematurely.
The GT1749V’s oil return path is another common weak point. Over time, carbon buildup and sludge can clog the return line, leading to oil pooling inside the turbocharger housing.
This oil build-up exerts extra pressure on the seals, causing oil to leak into the intake system and combust with the air-fuel mixture, resulting in blue smoke and excessive oil consumption.
Thermal management is also a challenge for this turbo. Its cooling system is relatively modest, and the turbo often runs at high temperatures, especially during spirited driving or stop-and-go traffic.
Elevated temperatures degrade engine oil faster, turning it into varnish and sludge that further impair seal performance.
Owners of vehicles equipped with the GT1749V often report noticeable blue smoke during startup and under boost conditions, alongside rising oil consumption that demands frequent top-ups.
Repairing this issue typically involves replacing worn seals and ensuring proper oil return flow, but many owners find the problem recurs without careful maintenance.
Despite these issues, the GT1749V remains a common turbo choice due to its availability and performance potential. However, prospective owners should be aware of its oil burning tendencies and the importance of rigorous oil maintenance to mitigate problems.
4. Mitsubishi TD05H
The Mitsubishi TD05H turbocharger, found in a variety of Japanese performance cars such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution II and III, has long been associated with oil burning challenges.
While it delivers strong performance in stock and tuned setups, the TD05H requires careful maintenance to avoid excessive oil consumption.
One critical issue with the TD05H is its oil seal design. Compared to newer turbochargers with advanced seal materials and technologies, the TD05H uses older sealing methods that are prone to wear and leakage, especially under high boost or extended high-RPM driving.
The oil return system on the TD05H is relatively simple and can become clogged with debris or sludge if the engine oil is not changed regularly or if the vehicle experiences aggressive driving conditions.
This can cause oil to accumulate in the bearing housing, pushing past the seals and into the intake or exhaust.
Heat is another factor that contributes to oil burning in the TD05H. The turbo’s cooling system is not as efficient as modern designs, and under heavy load, it can experience heat soak.
Elevated temperatures cause the engine oil to degrade quickly, losing its lubricating properties and increasing the risk of seal failure.
Owners frequently report blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration or startup and higher-than-normal oil consumption.
Fixes often involve rebuilding the turbo with upgraded seals or converting to newer-style cartridge bearings, but without proper maintenance, oil burning can persist.
While the TD05H has proven itself as a performance icon, its tendency to burn oil is a notable drawback for daily driving or long-term ownership, requiring vigilance in oil quality and maintenance intervals.
5. Holset HX35
The Holset HX35 turbocharger, commonly used in heavy-duty diesel trucks and commercial vehicles, is another turbo known for oil burning problems.
While it is capable of delivering substantial power and torque, its oil consumption issues can lead to costly repairs and downtime.
The HX35’s oil seals are particularly susceptible to wear and failure, especially in trucks subjected to heavy loads, long idling periods, or poor maintenance.
These seals are responsible for keeping oil inside the turbo housing, but when compromised, they allow oil to enter the intake tract or exhaust.
The oil return path in the HX35 is often criticized for being prone to clogging, especially if oil changes are irregular or if low-quality oil is used. When oil cannot drain properly, it accumulates in the turbo housing, increasing pressure and pushing oil past worn seals.
Thermal stress is also a concern with the HX35. Its cooling system is less sophisticated compared to modern turbos, meaning it can run hotter for longer periods. This heat degrades the oil, leading to sludge formation and accelerating seal damage.
Truck owners frequently report blue exhaust smoke, increased oil consumption, and the need for frequent top-offs or turbo rebuilds.
While the HX35 remains a workhorse turbocharger, its oil burning tendency requires owners to be especially diligent about oil quality and maintenance to extend its service life.
Turbochargers have revolutionized automotive performance, providing increased power and efficiency in a compact package.
However, as with any mechanical component, their longevity and reliability depend heavily on design quality, materials, and maintenance practices.
Through examining five turbochargers known for their durability and clean operation versus five notorious for oil burning issues, we gain valuable insight into what sets reliable turbos apart from problematic ones.
Turbochargers that don’t burn oil typically feature advanced sealing technologies, efficient oil flow and return systems, and robust cooling mechanisms.
These elements work together to maintain proper lubrication without allowing oil to leak into the combustion chamber or exhaust. As a result, these turbos offer longer service intervals, reduced emissions, and lower maintenance costs.
They are often found in newer or more meticulously engineered engines, where manufacturers prioritize both performance and longevity.
On the other hand, turbochargers prone to burning oil often share common flaws: inadequate seals, inefficient oil return passages, and less effective cooling designs.
Combined with factors like neglectful maintenance or aggressive driving, these shortcomings cause oil to seep past seals, leading to blue smoke, increased oil consumption, and potential engine or emissions system damage. Owners of vehicles with these turbos often face repeated repairs and higher operating expenses.
Understanding these distinctions empowers vehicle owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts to make informed decisions—whether purchasing a new or used car, performing maintenance, or considering upgrades.
Regular oil changes with high-quality oil, prompt attention to exhaust smoke or oil consumption, and proper cooling system upkeep are essential to maximize turbo life regardless of model.
In summary, while no turbocharger is immune to wear, choosing models with proven oil management and maintaining them diligently dramatically improves longevity and performance.
Being aware of which turbos tend to burn oil—and why—can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.
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