The turbocharger forces more oxygen-rich air into an engine. This component improves performance, increases horsepower and torque, and makes the vehicle run better, move faster, and work harder. Turbochargers are almost standard issue for most vehicles, but switching out a factory-installed turbocharger with a high-performance one does wonders for the engine.

That said, all good things must come to an end—though that end may be a long ways away. How long does a turbo last on a Powerstroke? There’s no hard and fast answer; it depends on things like the way the driver handles the vehicle, performs maintenance, and what they do for the engine. Here are a few other insights.

Take It Easy

Some owners of vehicles with Powerstroke engines report their turbochargers have lasted around 100,000–150,000 miles. A few have reached 200,000 miles or more before noticing a drop in power and performance. That’s a pretty good run and usually well within expectations for most vehicles. Turbo performance begins to drop when owners push a vehicle past its abilities.

Don’t Overdo It

If you push your truck past its limits, it needs time to rest. After a long drive or hours of work, give the vehicle time to recover. Letting the engine cool down afterward prevents turbo coking, which takes place when oil burns into the turbocharger because of high temperatures. The oil’s consistency goes from sludge to varnish, then to a solid state called “coke.”

Coking can damage the turbocharger and the engine. Using good-quality motor oil and not idling too often can extend a turbocharger’s life. The high-quality oils protect engine components against high temps.

Take a Look

Checking the exterior and interior of the turbocharger can also help you extend its life. Look for cracks and leaks, and listen for whines, squeals, and rattling. These sounds can indicate worn-out bearings. Watch for white-grey smoke from the exhaust, as well, which can mean turbocharger failure. Catching these things can help you remediate turbocharger issues and tack on a few more miles before replacing it.

Other Items

A turbo on a Powerstroke lasts quite a while, as it turns out, with regular care. As your vehicle approaches 100,000 miles, keep an eye and ear out for the aforementioned issues. Regular maintenance and inspections help, but consider performing a 6.0 Powerstroke turbo upgrade on your current model to give your car a new lease on life!