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How do you install a turbo on a non-turbo car?
I love fast cars! I watch all the car movies and go to car shows, but my car just has a little naturally aspirated engine. What’s the easiest way to install a turbo on a car?
Sarah Gray · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Installing a turbo on a non-turbo car is going to take a lot more than just plugging in a new part. That said, it is possible to add a turbocharger to just about any naturally aspirated (NASP) engine.
But here’s why you should think twice: Turbocharged engines don’t just take in air differently than NASP engines—they do everything differently.
Adding a turbocharger means:
- Cooling the compressed air
- Modifying the ECU
- Upgrading your clutch
- Possibly upgrading your fuel pump
Keep in mind: If you’re able to tune everything just right, you might be able to get a little more horsepower out of your NASP engine—but the extra strain on your engine will likely cause it to deteriorate faster.
Pro tip: A few companies, like Flyin’ Miata, have tried to simplify the process with a complete turbo-kit, but it’s still a very labor-intensive process. You’d be better served both in performance and dollars spent to source a turbocharged engine and have your mechanic install it. This can get expensive, but you’ll definitely get more bang for your buck.
MORE: Will modifications make my car insurance more expensive?
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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