Will the turbocharger be damaged if it gets water inside?

[DiJune]

If the turbocharger gets water inside but the engine is not started, it will not be damaged. When the car's turbocharger and intake pipe are filled with water, the engine must not be turned over. If the engine is turned over with water in the turbocharger's intake pipe, the water will enter the cylinders through the intake valves. Since water is incompressible, when the piston moves upward to compress, a small turning force will cause the engine to stop, while a large turning force may bend the connecting rod, bend the piston pin, crush the piston, crack the engine block, or even lead to engine failure. If the turbocharger and intake pipe are filled with water but the engine is not turned over, simply remove the turbocharger and intake pipe to completely drain the water, then reinstall them. A turbocharger is essentially an air compressor that increases the intake air volume by compressing air. It utilizes the inertial force of the exhaust gases from the engine to drive the turbine in the turbine housing, which in turn drives the coaxial impeller. The impeller compresses the air delivered from the air filter pipe, forcing it into the cylinders under increased pressure. As the engine speed increases, the exhaust gas velocity and turbine speed also rise in sync, allowing the impeller to compress more air into the cylinders. The increased air pressure and density enable the combustion of more fuel. By adjusting the fuel quantity and engine speed accordingly, the engine's output power can be enhanced.

[DiGiselle]

A turbocharger can indeed be damaged by water ingress. Having run an auto repair shop for many years, I've frequently encountered failures caused by water. The reason is that the turbo spins at high speeds during operation, and if water enters, it can come into contact with hot metal parts, leading to corrosion, rust, and even bearing seizure. If the water carries mud or debris, it can accelerate wear on internal components. In severe cases, it may cause turbo blade fractures or explosive damage. Water ingress typically occurs due to driving through deep water, heavy rain, or leaks in the cooling system. If you notice symptoms like sluggish acceleration, oil leaks, or unusual noises, be alert to possible water damage. Early inspection of seals and drainage pipes can prevent major repairs. Replacing the turbo is a common solution, though it can be costly. Remember to perform regular maintenance, especially cleaning before the rainy season, and avoid speeding through deep water—this can significantly extend its lifespan.

[SanBrooke]

Water entering the turbocharger can easily damage it, as I learned from personal experience. Last year, I drove through a waterlogged section of road, and the turbo developed issues. The mechanic explained that water causes metal components to rust and corrode, and because the turbo spins at high speeds, the combination of water and heat accelerates deterioration. At first, I only noticed a drop in power and increased noise, but I didn’t pay much attention. It wasn’t until I took it to the shop that the water damage was confirmed. The repair took three days and cost a significant amount, even affecting the exhaust system. So, my advice is to avoid driving through deep water whenever possible, especially after heavy rain. If water does get in, stop the car as soon as possible for inspection, and avoid forcing the engine to start to prevent further damage. These small habits can save you both hassle and money.

[DeSteven]

Water ingress poses significant risks to turbochargers, necessitating careful prevention. I understand that turbos rely on precise operation, and water intrusion can lead to lubrication failure, accelerating wear and deformation. When driving daily, I always remind myself to avoid forcibly plowing through standing water, and after rain, I check the engine bay for any signs of water. Maintenance is crucial—regularly replacing coolant and inspecting hoses can prevent water infiltration. Simple habits can help avoid major troubles.