What Is An Engine Mount And Why Is It Important?
An engine mount or motor mount is exactly what it sounds like - it is the part that mounts your engine to the frame of your car. Normally made out of steel and either rubber or polyurethane, the engine mount reduces noise, minimizes vibration, and is essential to the safe operation of your vehicle. Left in disrepair, the motor mounts will continue to deteriorate or break, causing damage to the engine and other parts of your car.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- The signs of a bad engine mount
- What causes an engine mount to go bad
- Age and replacement for engine mounts
- Where to find OEM replacement engine mounts
What Are the Signs of a Bad Engine Mount?
If you have a bad engine mount, you'll experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Increased vibrations or noise - Your engine makes more noise than usual; you feel more vibrations in the steering wheel or coming through the car.
- Lurching or thumping noise when starting - The car feels like something is lurching or thumping when you try to start it.
- Your car rides rough - You feel a jolt or thump when changing gears or going over bumps in the road.
- You hear clunks or bangs from under your hood - It sounds like something is kicking or banging under the hood when the car is in motion.
- Visual Wear - In some cars, you can open the hood to inspect the engine mounts. If they appear loose, broken, or the rubber or polyurethane is worn, your engine mounts need to be replaced.
Why Do Engine Mounts Go Bad?
The most likely cause for a bad engine mount is wear and tear over time. If you drive an older vehicle or one with high mileage, it's not uncommon for the engine mounts to wear out. Other causes include:
- Hard or rough driving, including driving over bumps, potholes, or unpaved roads
- Suspension damage or worn struts, springs, or shock absorbers
- Frame damage due to a car accident
- Leaking fluids like antifreeze cause the rubber to deteriorate
- Improper replacement of the engine mounts or other repairs to the engine or suspension of the vehicle
How Long Do Engine Mounts Last?
In most cases, engine mounts should last at least five years or more. If you own a car that's five years old or older or has over 60,000 miles, it's a good idea to inspect the engine mounts regularly. A good time to perform this inspection is at each oil change.
Should I Replace All of the Engine Mounts at the Same Time?
Image Credit: Samarins
While it is possible to replace just one bad engine mount, it's a good idea to replace all of them at the same time. Even if the other engine mounts appear in good shape, they are the same age and in almost the same condition as the bad one. If another one goes bad shortly after the first one, it will not only cause more hassle, but could damage your car, including damaging the new engine mount. So we recommend replacing engine mounts as a set.
Where to Buy OEM Replacement Engine Mounts
The best place to find quality OEM engine mounts is Suburban Auto Parts. As one of the largest dealer groups in the country, we have a huge selection of genuine OEM parts and accessories in-stock and ready to ship. And because we have so many parts, we're able to offer discount pricing that most other OEM parts sellers can't match. Additionally, because our parts inventory is located in multiple warehouses, we're able to offer fast shipping to buyers anywhere in the continental U.S. When you buy from us, you can expect your parts will arrive as quickly as possible.
Best of all, our team of experts is ready to answer questions and help you find the parts you need - just call or email.