How High Is the Temperature in a Turbocharged Engine Compartment?
3 Answers
When the turbocharger is operating, the temperature at the exhaust turbine end of the turbocharger exceeds 600 degrees Celsius. Here is some relevant information: 1. Turbocharger: A turbocharger consists of two parts, one is the compressor turbine, and the other is the exhaust turbine. The working principle of a turbocharged engine is very simple. When the engine reaches a certain speed, the exhaust gas has enough energy to drive the exhaust turbine to rotate. At this time, the compressor turbine will also rotate together, allowing the compressor turbine to compress air and blow it into the cylinders. 2. Precautions: After driving a car with a turbocharged engine at high speed or on a long-distance trip, it is advisable not to turn off the engine immediately. Instead, let the engine idle for a few minutes to help cool down the turbocharger.
The engine bay temperature of a turbocharged engine is significantly higher than the old diesel cars I've driven, especially on the turbo exhaust side. Under full load, it can easily soar to over 300 degrees Celsius, sometimes approaching 400 degrees, because the exhaust gases driving the turbine generate massive amounts of heat. In the overall engine compartment, areas close to the turbo also get quite hot, typically between 150 to 200 degrees. I've noticed this high temperature accelerates the aging of plastic and rubber components, such as wiring insulation becoming brittle, and also affects spark plug lifespan. So when driving a turbocharged car, never rush to touch anything after parking—it's scalding hot. Adding some radiators or heat shields can be a big help, extending engine life and improving safety. Remember to check the coolant more often in summer to prevent the high temperatures from straining the entire system.
When I pop the hood of my turbocharged sports coupe, a wave of heat hits me. Measured with a thermometer, the area near the turbo can spike to around 250°C immediately after parking, while other spots like near the battery hover around 100°C. This heat level is significantly higher than naturally aspirated engines because turbos rely on exhaust gases—high thermal efficiency but tough to cool. Prolonged exposure can age pipelines, especially fuel lines risking leaks or fires. After long drives, I always let it idle for a few minutes to cool the turbo and surrounding parts. Added vent holes help too—works nicely. While heat boosts performance, moderation is key.
