Turbocharged car owners: Why skipping downshift can cost you

The almost ubiquitous turbochargers, which provide "strong low-end torque" and help meet emissions standards, have become one of the main reasons for driver errors. When the road is clear, and the car seems to accelerate adequately just by pressing the gas pedal, we skip downshifting. However, this mistake negatively affects the engine.

Many drivers believe accelerating at lower RPMs is better because it creates less noise from the exhaust system. Nonetheless, the engine is not designed to handle heavy loads at low RPMs. Under these conditions, its efficiency decreases—more energy from the fuel is used to generate heat rather than contributing to actual acceleration. This results in higher fuel consumption and engine heating, especially inside the cylinders.

Excessive heating of these components can lead to uneven fuel mixture combustion and ignition problems. As a result, the forces in the cylinder become unevenly distributed, contributing to faster engine wear. Turbocharged engines, found in most new cars, are particularly sensitive to such acceleration, increasing the risk of premature ignition of the mixture.

Research conducted by Japanese companies Toyota and Denso has shown that glowing remnants of fuel and oil can remain in the engine when accelerating without downshifting. These particles at low RPMs increase the chance of uncontrolled ignitions, which shortens the lifespan of pistons and spark plugs.

Driving instructors also recommend downshifting before accelerating during courses. Overtaking is a risky maneuver that requires a dynamic and swift conclusion. Downshifting allows you to utilize the vehicle's full capabilities and quickly complete the overtaking maneuver.