Yes, you absolutely can turbo an automatic car, and it’s a modification that’s becoming increasingly popular for those seeking an automatic car performance upgrade. This exciting enhancement involves fitting a turbocharger to a car already equipped with an automatic transmission, aiming to boost engine power and torque.
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The Allure of Turbocharging an Automatic
Adding a turbocharger to any engine is about forcing more air into the combustion chamber. More air means more fuel can be burned, leading to a significant increase in power and torque. When applied to a vehicle with an automatic transmission, this translates into a more exhilarating driving experience, with quicker acceleration and a noticeable surge of power. The concept of turbocharging automatic transmission vehicles isn’t new, but advancements in technology have made it more accessible and reliable than ever before.
How Turbochargers Work (Simplified)
At its core, a turbocharger is an exhaust-driven air compressor. It uses the engine’s own exhaust gases to spin a turbine. This turbine is connected to another turbine (a compressor), which spins at incredibly high speeds. The spinning compressor draws in fresh air, compresses it, and then forces it into the engine’s intake manifold. This pressurized air, known as “boost,” allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power.
Why Consider Turbocharging an Automatic?
Many drivers opt for automatic transmissions for their convenience. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t desire enhanced performance. Turbocharging automatic transmission cars offers a way to bridge that gap.
- Increased Power and Torque: The most obvious benefit is a substantial jump in horsepower and torque. This means faster acceleration and more responsive driving.
- Improved Drivability: When properly tuned, a turbocharged automatic can feel smoother and more powerful across a wider range of the RPM band.
- Potential for Better Fuel Economy (in some cases): While not the primary goal, a turbocharged engine can sometimes be more efficient when driven conservatively, as it can achieve desired speeds with less throttle input.
- The Thrill Factor: There’s an undeniable excitement that comes with the power delivery of a turbocharged engine, even in an automatic.
Adding Turbo to Automatic Gearbox: What’s Involved?
Adding turbo to automatic gearbox is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. It’s not as simple as bolting on a turbo kit to a manual transmission car. The automatic transmission itself needs to be able to handle the increased power and torque.
Key Components of a Turbo Kit for an Automatic
A typical turbo kit for automatic vehicles will include:
- Turbocharger: The heart of the system, responsible for compressing the air.
- Exhaust Manifold: Designed to direct exhaust gases to the turbo.
- Downpipe: Connects the turbo’s exhaust outlet to the rest of the exhaust system.
- Intercooler: Cools the compressed air before it enters the engine, making it denser and more powerful.
- Intake Plumbing: Connects the air filter to the turbo and the intercooler to the engine.
- Fuel System Upgrades: Larger fuel injectors and a higher-flow fuel pump are usually necessary to supply enough fuel for the boosted engine.
- Engine Management System (ECU) Tuning: Crucial for optimizing fuel and ignition timing to work with the added boost.
- Oil and Coolant Lines: To supply lubrication and cooling to the turbocharger.
The Automatic Transmission’s Role
The automatic transmission is designed to shift gears based on engine speed, load, and throttle position. When you introduce a turbocharger, the engine’s power delivery changes dramatically. This means the transmission’s control unit (TCM) needs to be recalibrated to manage these changes effectively.
Challenges of Turboing Automatic Cars
While the rewards are great, there are significant challenges of turboing automatic cars. The primary concern revolves around the transmission’s ability to handle the increased stress.
Transmission Strength and Durability
Automatic transmissions, especially older or less robust ones, are not inherently built to withstand the kind of sudden and significant torque increases that a turbocharger provides.
- Torque Converter: The torque converter is a fluid coupling that allows the engine to spin while the wheels are stationary. Higher power can overwhelm the stock torque converter, leading to slippage and potential damage.
- Clutches and Bands: The internal clutches and bands within the transmission are responsible for engaging different gear sets. Increased torque can cause these components to slip or fail prematurely.
- Transmission Fluid: The stock transmission fluid may not be sufficient to handle the higher operating temperatures generated by increased power and slipping.
Automatic Transmission Durability with Turbo
Achieving good automatic transmission durability with turbo often requires more than just a simple bolt-on kit.
- Reinforcement: Some transmissions may require internal reinforcement, such as stronger clutch packs or upgraded valve bodies, to cope with the extra power.
- Cooling: A transmission cooler is often an essential addition to prevent overheating, which is a common killer of automatic transmissions under stress.
Automatic Transmission Tuning for Turbo
Automatic transmission tuning for turbo is absolutely critical. This involves modifying the transmission’s control software (TCM) to:
- Adjust Shift Points: The TCM needs to be told when to shift gears to optimize power delivery and avoid lugging the engine or over-revving it.
- Control Line Pressure: Higher line pressure can improve clutch engagement, making shifts firmer and reducing slippage.
- Manage Torque Management: Modern TCMs often reduce engine torque during shifts to smooth out the experience. With a turbo, this feature needs to be carefully calibrated to avoid bogging down the engine and compromising acceleration.
Automatic Transmission Modifications for Boost
To truly handle boost, automatic transmission modifications for boost are often necessary. These can include:
- Upgraded Torque Converter: A higher stall speed torque converter can help the engine get into its powerband more effectively and handle more power.
- Heavy-Duty Clutch Packs: Replacing stock clutch plates with stronger, multi-clutch setups provides more surface area and durability.
- Upgraded Valve Body: The valve body controls fluid flow to clutches and bands. An upgraded unit can offer firmer shifts and better hydraulic control.
- Transmission Cooler: As mentioned, an external cooler is vital for maintaining optimal fluid temperatures.
How Turbochargers Affect Automatic Transmissions
The introduction of a turbocharger fundamentally alters how the engine operates, and consequently, how the automatic transmission needs to function.
Torque Delivery
Manual transmissions allow the driver to control torque delivery by engaging and disengaging the clutch. Automatics do this automatically. A turbocharger creates a much steeper torque curve, meaning torque can build very rapidly.
- Lag: Turbo lag is the delay between pressing the accelerator and the turbocharger building enough boost to significantly increase power. While modern turbos are much better, it’s still a factor. During this lag, the automatic transmission is essentially waiting for power.
- Sudden Power Surges: When boost hits, it’s a sudden influx of power. The automatic transmission’s control system must be able to react instantly to this surge, ensuring smooth gear engagement without abruptness or potential damage.
Heat Generation
Turbocharged engines generally produce more heat. This heat can be transferred to the transmission fluid through the engine block and transmission cooler lines.
- Fluid Breakdown: Overheated transmission fluid can break down, losing its lubricating properties and leading to increased wear.
- Component Damage: Excessive heat can warp or damage internal transmission components, including clutch plates and seals.
Shift Quality and Speed
A well-tuned turbocharged automatic should offer shifts that are both quick and smooth.
- Firm Shifts: To prevent slippage under boost, shifts need to be firm. This is achieved through increased line pressure and improved clutch engagement.
- Intelligent Shift Points: The TCM needs to be programmed to select the optimal gear for the current driving situation, taking into account the turbo’s power delivery.
Popular Vehicles and Turbocharging Automatics
Many popular vehicles with automatic transmissions are candidates for turbocharging. This is particularly true for models that already have a sporty heritage or are designed with performance in mind.
Examples of Vehicles
- Honda Civic (Si): While the Si often comes with a manual, many owners of automatic Civics have successfully turbocharged them.
- Subaru WRX (Automatic Variants): The WRX is known for its turbocharged boxer engine, and automatic versions can be further enhanced.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (GSR models): Historically, some Evo models featured automatic transmissions and were targets for performance tuning.
- Ford Mustang (EcoBoost): The EcoBoost Mustang, available with an automatic, is a prime candidate for turbo upgrades.
- Various GM Vehicles (LS-powered): Many GM vehicles with V8 engines and automatic transmissions are highly adaptable to turbocharging.
Turbo Kits for Automatic Vehicles
The availability of dedicated turbo kits for automatic vehicles has made this modification more feasible. Reputable manufacturers offer kits specifically designed for certain makes and models, often including components and tuning maps tailored for the automatic transmission.
The Process of Turbocharging an Automatic Car
Embarking on the journey of turbocharging automatic transmission vehicles requires a structured approach.
Step 1: Assessment and Planning
- Vehicle Suitability: Determine if your automatic car is a good candidate. Research its existing transmission’s strength and common upgrades.
- Budget: Turbocharging is an investment. Factor in the cost of the kit, installation, tuning, and potential transmission upgrades.
- Goals: What level of performance are you aiming for? This will dictate the type of turbo and supporting modifications needed.
Step 2: Sourcing Components
- Turbo Kit: Choose a reputable turbo kit for automatic vehicles that matches your car and performance goals.
- Transmission Upgrades: If necessary, source upgraded clutch packs, torque converters, and transmission coolers.
- Supporting Modifications: This might include a higher-flow fuel pump, larger injectors, an upgraded exhaust system, and improved engine cooling.
Step 3: Installation
- Professional Installation Recommended: Due to the complexity and potential for damage, professional installation is highly recommended, especially for the transmission work and tuning.
- Careful Plumbing: Ensure all oil, coolant, and intake plumbing is routed correctly and securely.
Step 4: Automatic Transmission Tuning for Turbo
This is arguably the most critical step.
- Dyno Tuning: A professional tuner will use a dynamometer to map the engine and transmission for optimal performance and reliability. This involves adjusting fuel maps, ignition timing, and transmission shift strategies.
- Transmission Control Module (TCM) Reprogramming: The TCM needs to be calibrated to handle the new power, adjust shift points, and manage torque.
Step 5: Testing and Refinement
- Street Testing: After tuning, test the vehicle under various driving conditions.
- Monitoring: Keep a close eye on transmission temperatures, boost levels, and any unusual noises or behaviors.
- Further Refinements: Minor adjustments to the tune may be necessary to achieve perfect drivability.
Benefits of Turbocharging Automatics (Revisited)
The effort and investment in turbocharging automatic transmission cars can yield significant rewards.
- Enhanced Acceleration: The most noticeable benefit is the dramatic improvement in 0-60 mph times and overall acceleration.
- More Engaging Driving: Even with an automatic, the surge of power from a turbo can make driving more exciting and responsive.
- Increased Versatility: A turbocharged automatic can be more capable for situations requiring quick bursts of speed, like merging onto a highway or overtaking.
- Customization: It allows owners to tailor their vehicle’s performance to their specific preferences.
What to Consider Before Turbocharging Your Automatic
It’s essential to approach this modification with realistic expectations and thorough research.
Automatic Transmission Durability with Turbo – The Reality
While advancements have been made, automatic transmission durability with turbo still requires careful management. Pushing an automatic transmission far beyond its stock power handling capabilities, even with upgrades, will eventually lead to wear and tear. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes with high-quality synthetic fluids, becomes even more critical.
Challenges of Turboing Automatic Cars – Mitigation Strategies
- Conservative Boost Levels: Start with lower boost levels and gradually increase as confidence in the transmission’s resilience grows.
- Quality Components: Use high-quality turbo kits for automatic vehicles and transmission upgrade parts from reputable brands.
- Professional Tuning: Never skimp on tuning. A skilled tuner can optimize the system for both performance and longevity.
- Proactive Maintenance: Regular inspections and fluid changes are paramount.
Cost Implications
Adding turbo to automatic gearbox is not a cheap modification. Beyond the initial cost of the turbo kit and installation, factor in potential transmission upgrades, tuning costs, and increased maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I turbocharge any automatic car?
While technically possible on many, it’s highly recommended to choose a car with a relatively robust automatic transmission from the factory. Some transmissions are simply not designed to handle significant power increases without extensive and costly modifications. Researching your specific car model’s transmission strength and common upgrade paths is crucial.
Is it worth turbocharging an automatic car?
This depends entirely on your goals and budget. If you’re seeking a significant performance boost and are prepared for the costs and potential maintenance requirements, then yes, it can be very rewarding. If you prioritize absolute reliability and low maintenance, it might not be the best route.
How much does it cost to turbocharge an automatic car?
Costs vary wildly depending on the car, the quality of the turbo kit, the extent of transmission upgrades needed, and labor rates for installation and tuning. A basic turbo kit installation might start in the low thousands, but with significant transmission upgrades and professional tuning, costs can easily reach $5,000 – $15,000 or more.
Will turbocharging an automatic void my warranty?
Yes, almost certainly. Any performance modification like turbocharging will void the powertrain warranty on your vehicle.
How does turbocharging affect the transmission fluid?
Turbocharging increases the heat generated by the engine, which can transfer to the transmission fluid. This is why an upgraded transmission cooler is often a necessary component, to keep the fluid within optimal operating temperatures and prevent premature breakdown and damage.
Can I do it myself?
While some mechanical skills can go a long way, turbocharging an automatic car is a complex undertaking. Proper installation of the turbocharger, plumbing, intercooler, and crucially, the automatic transmission tuning for turbo, requires specialized knowledge and tools. Professional installation and tuning are strongly advised for reliability and safety.
Conclusion
Can you turbo an automatic car? The definitive answer is a resounding yes. The pursuit of enhanced performance with an automatic car performance upgrade is a viable and exciting endeavor. However, it’s crucial to approach adding turbo to automatic gearbox with a clear understanding of the associated challenges of turboing automatic cars. The key to success lies in meticulous planning, selecting quality components, investing in expert automatic transmission tuning for turbo, and respecting the limits of automatic transmission durability with turbo. By carefully considering all aspects, you can transform your automatic car into a more powerful and exhilarating machine.