I plan to use my Dacia Duster for lots of short journeys, is this bad for the turbo engine?

I am planning on buying a 2018 Dacia Duster. 90% of my trips will be daily, two or three times under three miles. If I buy the 1.3 turbo petrol will I have problems due to the oil in the turbo unit not reaching working temperature every time?

Am I better off buying the non turbo 1.6 engine?

Asked on 24 July 2023 by zog

Answered by David Ross

Frequent short journeys where the engine does not have time to get up to temperature is not ideal for any kind of powertrain, as the most wear occurs when the engine is cold.

This may have additional implications for a turbocharged engine as the oil does not circulate as freely until it is at the correct temperature, so if the majority of your driving is going to be this kind of journey we would suggest choosing the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine. You may also want to consider changing the engine oil more regularly than the recommended schedule.

Tags: engine wear and tear turbochargers

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Dacia Duster (2018 on)

Incredible value for money. Spacious interior. Efficient petrol, diesel and bi-fuel engines. Strong performance in HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Index.