Driving technique

Sympathetic driving will help the engine oil to fulfil its protective role. Not revving the engine hard immediately following a cold start ensures that the lubricant reaches vital parts, such as the crankshaft bearings and turbocharger, while those components are rotating relatively slowly. Similarly, oil takes far longer to warm than engine coolant; should your car have an oil temperature gauge (as pictured in Step 2), it's prudent to avoid high engine speeds and loads until the oil has warmed to at least 50°C.

While many manufacturers state that it is unnecessary for modern engines, turbocharger rebuilders recommend allowing the engine to idle for a time after a long, highspeed journey, before switching off. This allows the turbocharger shaft to slow down and cool, while receiving a supply of pressurised oil.

Be wary of stop-start systems cutting the engine automatically straight after travelling at high speeds, such as when encountering an unexpected traffic jam on an otherwise free-flowing motorway.

Some engine cooling system circuits possess an electric water pump to reduce turbocharger temperatures, which tend to operate after the engine is switched off. This helps reduce the risk of the lubricant oxidising into hard deposits, which will damage the delicate bearing material. However, an electric water pump cannot cure turbo damage resulting from a lack of oil lubrication. For this reason, never ‘blip’ the throttle just prior to switching off the engine.