How much should I pay to replace motor mounts?
The cost to replace motor mounts can vary significantly depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the specific parts needed, and the labor required. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to have your motor mounts replaced by a professional mechanic.
What Are Motor Mounts?
Motor mounts are the rubber or metal components that connect your vehicle's engine to the frame. They serve two main purposes: they hold the engine in place and they absorb the vibrations and shocks from the engine's operation. Over time, motor mounts can become worn, cracked, or broken, which can lead to increased engine movement, vibrations, and potential damage to other components.
Factors Affecting Motor Mount Replacement Cost
- Vehicle Make and Model: The cost of the motor mount parts can vary significantly depending on the specific vehicle. Luxury or high-performance vehicles tend to have more expensive motor mounts.
- Labor Costs: The labor required to replace the motor mounts can also vary. Some vehicles have easier access to the mounts, while others may require more disassembly, increasing the labor time and cost.
- Number of Mounts: Most vehicles have 2-4 motor mounts that need to be replaced. The more mounts that require replacement, the higher the overall cost.
- Part Availability: If the motor mount parts are not readily available, the mechanic may need to order them, which can add to the overall cost and delay the repair.
It's important to note that attempting to replace the motor mounts yourself is generally not recommended, as it can be a complex and potentially dangerous task. It's best to have a professional mechanic perform the work to ensure it is done correctly and safely.
Tips for Reducing Motor Mount Replacement Costs
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple mechanics or auto repair shops to compare prices and find the best deal.
- Consider Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket motor mount parts can sometimes be less expensive than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, but be sure to research the quality and compatibility.
- Timing the Repair: If your motor mounts are not yet completely worn out, you may be able to delay the replacement and save money in the short term. However, delaying the repair can lead to further damage and more costly repairs down the line.
Replacing your vehicle's motor mounts is an important maintenance task that should not be overlooked. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and taking steps to find the best deal, you can ensure that you get the necessary repairs done without breaking the bank.
Is it worth replacing a motor mount?
Because it can lead to further damage and safety risks, you should fix a bad motor mount before continuing to drive. What's the typical cost of motor mount replacement? The typical cost can range from $150 to $500, depending on the make and model of your vehicle and labor costs.
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.
