Turbo intercooler swap?

JIMSTEPP77

MEMBER
2021 HONDA CRV
1.5L
4 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
30,000 MILES

I have the vehicle listed above EX model with 1.5L turbocharged engine. I've read that exchanging the turbo's intercooler with an aftermarket, larger one will improve engine performance and extend the life of the turbocharger. I would like to know if this is true with my model and engine.

1 Reply

BRENDON S

MECHANIC
653 POSTS

Good morning, JIMSTEPP77,

Swapping out your car’s factory intercooler (or charge-air cooler) with a larger or upgraded version will safely add horsepower in a turbo engine. By lowering engine inlet temps, denser air charge will enter the engine making more horsepower at similar boost levels and higher.

The intercooler comes after the Turbocharger on the intake side of the system. So, it will not in my opinion extend the life of the turbocharger.

What will be making sure your engine is running efficiently.

Proper maintenance like plugs will make sure the exhaust side of the turbocharger doesn't get gummed up with unburnt fuel.

Also, your cooling system is important as well since the turbocharger will use the engine's coolant to regulate the temperature. Heat is going to be the turbocharger's worst enemy.

So, making sure you are using the right coolant, preferably from Honda, will help save it.

Here is a link to a video on how the turbocharging system works:

https://youtu.be/K8aCL56jZX4

If you have any questions or if I can help in any other way, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you,
Brendon