Can you still drive a car with bad motor mounts?
Motor mounts are a critical component of your vehicle, designed to secure the engine to the car's frame while absorbing vibrations and shocks. When motor mounts go bad, it can lead to a range of issues that affect both the performance and safety of your car. In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s safe to drive with bad motor mounts, the risks involved, and what you should do if you suspect a problem.
What Are Motor Mounts and Why Are They Important?
Motor mounts, also known as engine mounts, are small but essential parts that connect your car's engine to its chassis. They are typically made of metal and rubber, with the rubber acting as a cushion to reduce vibrations and noise. Their primary functions include:
- Securing the engine in place to prevent movement during operation.
- Absorbing vibrations to ensure a smooth and quiet ride.
- Protecting other components from damage caused by engine movement.
When motor mounts are in good condition, they help maintain the structural integrity of your vehicle and ensure a comfortable driving experience. However, when they fail, the consequences can be significant.
Can You Drive with Bad Motor Mounts?
Technically, you can drive a car with bad motor mounts, but it is not recommended. Here’s why:
- Increased Vibrations: Worn or damaged motor mounts can no longer absorb engine vibrations effectively, leading to excessive shaking that can be felt throughout the car.
- Engine Misalignment: Bad motor mounts may cause the engine to shift or tilt, which can lead to misalignment and strain on other components, such as the transmission or exhaust system.
- Potential Damage: Driving with bad motor mounts can cause additional wear and tear on surrounding parts, including hoses, belts, and wiring, which may lead to costly repairs.
- Safety Risks: In extreme cases, a completely failed motor mount could allow the engine to move excessively, potentially causing a loss of control or damage to critical systems.
While your car may still be operable with bad motor mounts, the risks far outweigh the benefits of continuing to drive in this condition.
Signs of Bad Motor Mounts
If you suspect your motor mounts are failing, watch out for these common symptoms:
- Excessive vibrations or shaking, especially when idling.
- Clunking or banging noises when accelerating, braking, or turning.
- Visible engine movement when the car is running.
- Unusual wear on engine components or misaligned parts.
These signs indicate that it’s time to have your motor mounts inspected and replaced by a professional mechanic.
What Should You Do If You Have Bad Motor Mounts?
If you suspect your motor mounts are failing, follow these steps:
- Stop Driving: Avoid driving your car as much as possible to prevent further damage or safety risks.
- Schedule an Inspection: Contact a trusted auto repair shop to have your motor mounts inspected. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing motor mount issues to get you back on the road safely.
- Replace the Motor Mounts: If the mounts are confirmed to be bad, have them replaced promptly. This will restore your car’s performance and prevent additional damage.
Conclusion
While it may be possible to drive with bad motor mounts, it is not a safe or practical choice. The risks to your vehicle’s components and your personal safety make it essential to address the issue as soon as possible. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don't fix motor mounts?
If an engine mount is damaged, its anti-vibration properties weaken. An increase in vibrations leads to the engine making more of a sound than usual – something that can be extremely damaging to an engine if it continues for a long time.
What are the symptoms of bad motor mounts?
A common symptom of failed or deteriorated engine mountings is noise coming from the engine bay, such as knocking or clunking. Not every noise is directly related to your engine mount, but worn engine mounts can mean the engine is moving around more than normal and making contact with other components.
Are engine mounts urgent?
The importance of replacing worn-out engine mounts promptly
What's more, a worn-out engine mount can affect the overall health and performance of your car, causing other important internal components, such as your fan belt or radiator hose, to become loose or damaged as a result.
Is it worth it to fix motor mounts?
The vibration generated from worn engine mounts can have a noticeable impact on other vehicle components, such as fan belts or radiator hoses, leading to stretching or snapping. So, replacing worn engine mounts is vital to the overall health of your machine.
How expensive is it to fix an engine mount?
The most common parts used in an engine mount include; a rubber body, sleeve or bonded plate, and the connection bolt. On average, replacing an engine mount can cost anywhere from $446 to $498.
At what mileage should motor mounts be replaced?
They last anywhere from 5 to 7 years depending on your car and driving habits. Over the years and thousands of miles, these engine mounts are likely to wear out.
Is replacing motor mounts a big job?
It's not too bad a job to change the motor mounts, but depends on your skill level. It's likely going to require some strength to bust some of those bolts loose and you will need at least a decent jack and a couple jack stands and some chocks as well as whatever tools you need to get the old ones off.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace engine mounts?
In some cases, a professional mechanic might be able to replace some mounts in about one hour, while in many other instances, a mount replacement can take several hours and even an entire workday.
How long can you drive on bad motor mounts?
The driving can be carried on until these mounts wear off further and lose their ability to grip the frame. At this point, you should take the car to professionals and access the repairs for the worn parts. Have the entire engine and transmission checked for any damage and get the handling accordingly.
How long does it take to replace motor mounts?
In some cases, a professional mechanic might be able to replace some mounts in about one hour, while in many other instances, a mount replacement can take several hours and even an entire workday.
