Mini Coopers are unique and fun to drive, with some models being made even sportier with the addition of a Supercharger. A supercharger, like a turbocharger, is a type of forced induction that permits higher horsepower by forcing more air into the engine.
Turbochargers are more commonly used and, therefore, more well-known, making it important to highlight the key differences between them and superchargers.
The supercharger is an air compressor attached to the engine via a belt.
Although supercharger oil changes may seem less consequential than other aspects of vehicle maintenance, this is quite important, as the specific oil helps keep your Mini’s supercharger running properly. This improves engine performance and fuel efficiency.
The supercharger also requires special oil that turbochargers do not, adding a maintenance item that turbochargers do not have. The ASE-certified technicians at Peak Auto, located in the areas of Apex and Cary, North Carolina, recommend maintaining the supercharger oil with regular inspections to prevent performance loss or engine damage.
Problems Caused by Low Supercharger Oil
If your Mini’s supercharger starts to run low on oil, your vehicle may face a variety of problems ranging from minor to severe. For example, one of the most common issues caused by low-supercharged oil is damage to components.
Scraping and Grinding of Gear
If your Mini’s supercharger runs out of oil, its gears will begin to scrape painfully against each other. Although the gears may be able to withstand a certain amount of scraping and grinding, prolonged exposure to high stress and friction can cause these components to break down. If this happens, the supercharger may stop working entirely. If you hear a grinding sound from your engine, drive into any of our garages located near you in Holly Springs and Park Village, NC.
Decreased Functionality or Failure of Engine Components
If the gears of your Mini’s supercharger are poorly lubricated, their decreased functionality may interfere with other components in your vehicle’s engine. More specifically, because the supercharger is directly connected to the crankshaft via a belt, stuck supercharger gears may prevent the crankshaft from working correctly. This can cause enormous issues for your vehicle’s engine. Our expert, ASE-certified technicians are skilled enough to identify the problem and repair your Mini at any of our garages near you in Raleigh and Shepherd’s Vineyard, NC.
Decreased Engine Efficiency
In addition to component failure, another common problem that may evolve from low supercharger oil is decreased engine efficiency. The amount of air that flows into your vehicle’s engine will decrease if your Mini’s supercharger lacks the oil to work correctly. This will not only reduce the engine’s power but also force it to use more fuel to compensate. Therefore, low supercharger oil may lead to a decrease in both engine power and fuel efficiency. We at Peak Auto, located near you in Scottish Hills and Upchurch Farms, NC, are here to help you identify and fix problems quickly.
The oil for the supercharger contains different ingredients from those of engine oil, so it is mandatory that the said oil not be mixed or substituted. According to the manufacturer’s recommendation, it is advised to change the Mini’s supercharger oil every 50,000 miles. However, if you notice any symptoms that the supercharger’s oil is low or contaminated, it is best to change it immediately to prevent further damage. If you experience a loss of power in your Mini, notice a drop in fuel economy, or hear unusual noises, please visit one of our garages located near you in Charleston Village and Fuquay Varina, NC.
Peak Auto – Your Go-To-Destination for Service and Repair of Your Mini in Apex, NC
Peak Auto, located near you in Apex and Cary, NC, is your friendly local expert in imported European cars. We are passionate about all things in European motoring, and we look forward to being your expert in Mini repair and maintenance.
Although it may seem that supercharger oil changes can be performed at home, they are more complicated than regular oil changes and are best handled by our best ASE-certified professionals, who have decades of experience specializing in European vehicles, including the Mini Cooper. We use factory-grade tools, OEM-quality parts, and fluids for your car. We have been awarded as the Top-Rated Service Center by %X CARFAX for five consecutive years from 2020 to 2024. We offer courtesy transportation, and our night drop is always available for your convenience to visit during your preferred hours. You can also enjoy our lavish waiting areas, complete with top-notch amenities, while we work on your Mini.
If you are looking for exceptional auto servicing from a trusted name, call or visit us now to book your appointment for your upcoming service. We will treat your Mini as if it were our own.
* Mini Cooper Car image credit goes to: tupungato.