What You Need To Know About Car Engine Mounts

When did you last check your engine mounts? Why is it important to check them?

This handy guide will show you how to identify bad engine mounts, and give you tips on how to replace them.

What is the function of a car engine mounting?

The engine mounts are used to attach the engine onto the chassis of the vehicle. The engine mounts are designed to dampen and absorb the vibrations generated by the motor, thereby isolating it from the rest the vehicle. The engine mounts are flexible and provide support, while still maintaining stability.

This reduces noise, vibration and harshness levels. It makes driving more comfortable for car occupants, while preventing engine damage and other critical components.

Types and sizes of engine mounts

Three main types of motor mounts are used today:

• Rubber/elastomer mounts are the most common in the automotive industry. They consist of rubber or elastomer support brackets that are attached by metal brackets to the engine and chassis of the vehicle.

The rubber is available in many shapes and sizes and can be used for various applications. They are also inexpensive to manufacture. Rubber absorbs vibrations well, and offers durability as well as a degree of flexibility.

• Hydraulic mounts use hydraulic fluid to dampen vibrations, before they reach chassis. They are better at isolating vibrations from the engine than traditional mounts, and they can be adjusted to specific conditions for improved performance. They are more expensive than other mounts. Fluid leaks are also possible.
• Electronic – These components, also known as active motor mounts, use a combination sensors and actuators in order to actively counteract any vibrations. These components are controlled electronically, and their stiffness and damping properties can be adjusted based on engine speed and load.

Image provided by Bestpartstore.co.uk of an engine mount for a car

How can you tell if a vehicle engine mount is faulty?

Even though engine mounts are very low maintenance, you should check them at least every few years because they can begin to wear out due to external influences and high loads. Mounts last on average between 5 and 7 years, depending on operating conditions.

There are many factors, including ageing and stress that can lead to the components going bad. If you are involved in a car accident, for example, the motor or mounts may be damaged by the impact. Other causes are incorrect installation, leaks around and on the mounts and bad driving habits.

Symptoms of an engine mount failure:

• Vibrations increase – this is the most common indication of a failing mount.
• Engine bay banging or clunking can be caused by mountings rubbing against each other or if the engine is not properly secured.
• Damage visible to the engine or mounts – Look for signs of damage such as cracks, corrosion, and loosening.
• Engine movement: When the engine is moving around a lot it can cause the axles and steering to be out of alignment.

How to install a engine mount?

If you need specific instructions about how to replace the damaged engine mount on your car or access it, please consult your vehicle’s manual. You can also find online tutorials that are model-specific.

How to install a new engine mount on your car yourself

• Wear protective clothing. It’s best to use heavy-duty gloves when working with engine components and to keep your arms covered. Wearing safety glasses is recommended due to the exposure to engine fluids.
• You can support and hold the motor using either a hydraulic lift from the bottom, or an engine support bar.
• Although it is not always necessary, experts recommend that you replace the transmission mounts at the same time that you replace the engine mounts.