How many hours does it take to replace motor mounts?

Replacing motor mounts typically takes about 1 to 3 hours for a single engine mount in a professional shop. If two or more mounts must be replaced or if access is tight, plan for 3 to 6 hours. Times can vary by vehicle, so a precise estimate should come from a technician.

What affects the repair time

Several factors determine how long a motor mount replacement will take. The following elements commonly influence the overall duration:

• Number and type of mounts being replaced (engine mount, transmission mount, or additional mounts like a torque strut).


• Vehicle design and engine layout (transverse vs. longitudinal mounting, subframes, and space constraints).


• Accessibility and obstructions (exhaust components, belts, intake plumbing, wiring harnesses).


• Need to support the engine or transmission during the work (jack or engine hoist requirements).


• Condition of fasteners and brackets (rusted or seized bolts can slow the job).


• Whether related parts must be removed or realigned (subframes, brackets, or accessory components).

In short, greater complexity and tighter access typically extend the job beyond a standard mount replacement.

Typical time estimates by scenario

Use these rough time ranges as a guide for common configurations. Actual times depend on the exact vehicle model and the shop’s procedures.

1. One front engine mount on a standard passenger car: 1–2 hours.


2. Front and rear engine mounts on a typical sedan: 2–4 hours.


3. Engine and transmission mounts on a mid-size SUV or light truck: 3–6 hours.


4. Multiple mounts on luxury or performance vehicles with tight spaces: 4–8 hours.

These estimates are approximate and can vary with vehicle design, access, and whether ancillary components are involved. For a precise figure, consult a qualified technician who can assess your specific car.

DIY vs. professional service

Replacing motor mounts is a task that a confident DIY mechanic can tackle, especially for a single mount on accessible layouts. However, professional technicians bring experience with engine support, alignment, torque specifications, and safety precautions, which can save time and reduce the risk of misalignment or damage. If you lack proper tools or a reliable engine support setup, the job is better left to a shop, even if it costs more upfront.

What to expect at a shop

When you take your vehicle in for motor mount replacement, a shop typically assesses the scope, confirms the number of mounts, and provides a written estimate with an hourly labor rate and parts cost. The total time will reflect the mounts being replaced, the need to remove other components, and any additional work identified during diagnosis. After completion, most shops perform a test drive or road test to ensure the mount installation is secure and the engine is properly aligned.

Summary

Motor mount replacement times vary significantly based on how many mounts are involved, how accessible they are, and whether other components must be moved or removed. In general, expect about 1–3 hours for a single mount in a routine case, rising to 3–6 hours (or more) for multiple mounts or difficult access. Always get a vehicle-specific estimate from a qualified technician for an accurate timeline and cost.

Is it a big job to replace engine mounts?

Replacing engine mounts is a medium to big job because it requires specialized tools like a lift or hoist to support the engine, and can be time-consuming due to difficult-to-reach locations and potential need to remove other components. While the mounts themselves aren't overly complex, the difficulty lies in the access, the need to safely jack up and support a heavy engine, and the potential for hidden problems like rust or obstructions. 
Factors that make it a big job

• Supporting the engine: The engine must be securely lifted and supported to take the weight off the mounts during replacement. This usually requires a jack with a block of wood on the oil pan or a vehicle lift. 
• Difficult access: Many engine mounts are buried deep in the engine bay, and getting to them can be difficult. 
• Removing other parts: It is often necessary to remove or loosen other components to gain access to the mounts, such as the starter, AC compressor, or exhaust manifold. 
• Time-consuming: The combination of supporting the engine, removing parts, and the job's fiddly nature can make it take several hours to complete. 
• Risk of damage: Without the right tools and experience, it's easy to damage other components or injure yourself when working with the heavy engine. 

Why it's a worthwhile job

• Safety: Worn mounts can lead to engine movement that puts stress on other parts and can be unsafe. 
• Performance: Proper mounts keep the engine in place, which leads to better performance and a smoother ride. 
• Longevity: Replacing them can prevent more expensive damage to the vehicle's structure and other mechanical parts down the line. 

When to DIY versus professional help

• Consider DIY if: You have a lot of experience, the mounts are easily accessible, and you have the necessary equipment like a hoist or lift. 
• Consider professional help if: The mounts are hard to reach, you're unfamiliar with the process, or you don't have the right tools. The cost of professional labor reflects the difficulty and time involved in the job. 

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How many hours of labor does it take to replace an engine?

Engine replacement labor typically takes 10 to 20 hours, though it can be shorter or longer depending on the vehicle's make and model, engine complexity, and other factors. For a basic engine swap with no complications, the time might be closer to 8 to 12 hours, while more complex jobs can take 15 to 20 hours or even more.
 
This video explains the factors that influence the time it takes to replace an engine: 1mLearnToDIY360YouTube · Dec 2, 2024

• Typical range: The most common estimate is between 10 and 12 hours, but many quotes fall between 10 and 15 hours. 
• Factors that increase time:
  • Vehicle complexity: Tight engine bays, integrated systems, and difficult-to-access parts increase the time needed for removal and reinstallation. 
  • Make and model: Older vehicles may be easier to work on, while newer cars with more complex systems can take longer. 
  • Additional repairs: If other parts need to be replaced or if the new engine isn't an exact match, the job will take longer. 
• How to estimate cost: To get a labor cost estimate, multiply the number of hours quoted by the shop's hourly rate. 

How much does labor cost to replace motor mounts?

The labor cost to replace motor mounts can range from $100-$450 per mount for easy-to-access jobs to well over $1,000 for complex or hydraulic mounts that require significant labor for access. The total cost depends on the vehicle's make and model, the specific mounts being replaced, and the labor rates of the repair shop, with a complete job often running between $300 and $1,500 or more. 
Factors influencing labor cost

• Accessibility: Simple mounts that are easily accessible on top of the engine can be a quick 30-minute job, resulting in low labor costs. 
• Complexity: Mounts that are buried in the engine bay may require removing other parts to gain access, significantly increasing labor time and cost. 
• Mount type: Hydraulic or active mounts are more complex and expensive to replace. They can also be more difficult to access than standard mounts. 
• Number of mounts: Replacing all motor mounts on a vehicle will be more expensive than replacing just one. 

How to estimate your cost

• Get multiple quotes: Contact several local shops for a written estimate to compare prices. 
• Be specific: When getting a quote, ask what is included. For example, are you getting a quote for one mount or multiple? Does it include the cost of hydraulic fluid? 
• Consider your vehicle: The make, model, and year of your car can affect labor time and cost. 
• Check for parts cost: The cost of parts can vary, so it's important to get an estimate for both parts and labor. 

How long does it take to replace motor mounts?

Replacing motor mounts can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours or more, depending on the car's make and model, and the accessibility of the mounts. A basic, easily accessible mount might be replaced in about 30 minutes by a professional, while a mount that is difficult to reach could require 2 or more hours. A full day at the shop is often needed for this job. 
This video demonstrates the symptoms of bad motor mounts and how to tell if they have failed: 55sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Aug 12, 2023
Factors that influence replacement time

• Mount accessibility: Some motor mounts are located in easily accessible areas on top of the engine, while others are buried deep in the engine bay, requiring the removal of other components to get to them. 
• Vehicle make and model: Different vehicles have different engine bay layouts and access points, which directly impacts how long the job will take. 
• DIY vs. professional: A professional mechanic can complete the job faster due to their experience and specialized tools, typically in 1–3 hours. For a DIYer with less experience, the job could take significantly longer. 
• Number of mounts: It is best practice to replace all motor mounts at the same time, as the other mounts are likely experiencing similar wear and tear. Replacing multiple mounts will increase the total job time.