Is it expensive to replace engine mounts?
In most passenger cars, replacing a worn engine mount is not prohibitive, but costs vary widely. Expect a few hundred dollars per mount for the portion that covers parts and labor, with typical totals around $300–$900 per mount for a straightforward job; premium models or jobs requiring engine removal can push the price higher.
What Engine Mounts Do and When They Fail
Engine mounts secure the engine to the chassis and dampen vibrations. They come in several types (front/transmission mount, rear engine mount, hydraulic or elastomeric mounts, etc.). Failure symptoms include increased vibrations, clunks, engine movement, misalignment, and unusual noises, especially when accelerating or shifting gears. Wear accelerates with age, heat exposure, and leaks, so a high-mileage car is more prone to needing replacement. If you notice progressive symptoms, it’s wise to have them inspected promptly to prevent collateral damage to belts, hoses, or the transmission.
How engine mounts work
Most modern cars use hydraulic or elastomeric mounts. They isolate vibrations by using rubber compounds or hydraulic fluid. When a mount loses stiffness or splits, the engine can shift under load, creating the symptoms above.
When you should replace them
Replace mounts when inspection finds cracks, severe softening, leakage in hydraulic mounts, or noticeable engine movement while idling or under throttle. It’s common to replace more than one mount at once because wear tends to occur concurrently and to restore stable alignment between engine, transmission, and driveshafts.
Cost Factors and Typical Price Ranges
Costs break down into parts and labor, and final price varies by vehicle type, location, and shop. The following ranges reflect typical experience across common vehicles in North America and Europe.
- Parts (per mount): typically $50–$350. Aftermarket options are cheaper than OEM, and some specialty or hydraulic mounts cost more.
- Labor (per mount): typically $150–$600, depending on access, engine layout, and whether components must be removed to reach the mount.
- Total per mount (parts + labor): commonly $200–$900, with higher-end or more complex cases reaching $1,000 or more.
- Costs by scenario: two mounts replaced at once often doubles the labor portion and can offer some savings on shop time; engine removal or transmission mount work can push the price higher.
These figures are approximate and can vary by country, shop rate, and your vehicle’s design. Always obtain a written estimate with itemized parts and labor before approving the work.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Recognizing the signs early can help you plan maintenance and avoid additional damage. Here are the most common indicators that an engine mount may be failing:
- Vibrations felt in the cabin, especially at idle or under acceleration, that intensify with engine load
- Clunking, banging, or thudding noises when starting, shifting, or going over bumps
- Visible engine movement or misalignment when revving the engine or braking
- Oil or coolant leaks near mount locations (for hydraulic mounts), or cracked/ripped rubber components
- Unusual noises when turning the steering or accelerating from a stop
Consult a trained technician if you notice these symptoms. A professional inspection can confirm whether mounts are the sole issue or if other components (like bushings or brackets) are involved.
DIY vs Professional Replacement
Replacing engine mounts is doable for experienced DIYers with the right tools, jack stands, and a solid knowledge of engine mounting points, but it can be dangerous. The engine is heavy and must be supported correctly, and improper reinstall can lead to misalignment or further damage. In many cases, especially on front-wheel-drive cars with crowded engine bays, labor times can be long and the job is best left to a professional.
When to attempt DIY
If you’re comfortable with basic car maintenance and have access to the correct manual, torque specs, and a hydraulic engine hoist or cherry picker, a single straightforward mount on a simple layout may be feasible. However, for cars with multiple mounts or those requiring engine removal, professional service is strongly recommended.
When to hire a professional
Choose a shop with clear warranties on parts and labor, ask about OEM vs aftermarket parts, and ensure they torque mounts to factory specifications and verify engine alignment after replacement.
Tips to Manage Costs
Costs can be managed by shopping smart and planning ahead. Consider the following strategies to minimize sticker shock while ensuring a safe, lasting repair.
- Get multiple itemized quotes from independent shops and dealer service departments to compare parts and labor costs.
- Ask about OEM vs aftermarket parts and whether the mount includes mounting brackets; sometimes a more expensive mount includes longer warranty or better durability.
- Inquire about bundles: replacing all related mounts at once can save labor and ensure proper alignment.
- Check for bundled maintenance or seasonal discounts; some shops offer price matches or financing options.
- Verify that the shop tests the alignment of the engine and transmission after replacement and warranties the workmanship.
Being informed helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re paying for a durable fix rather than a quick patch.
What to Expect by Vehicle Type
Vehicle type and engine configuration influence both the number of mounts and the complexity of replacement. Here’s a general guide to expectations by category.
- Compact cars: Often have 1–2 engine mounts that are easier to access; typical total cost per mount is on the lower end of the range.
- Midsize sedans and crossovers: Usually have 2–3 mounts with moderate labor times; costs align with mid-range estimates.
- SUVs and trucks: May have more mounts or heavier engines, and some require significant disassembly; total costs can be higher.
- Luxury or performance vehicles: OEM mounts or high-performance hydraulic variants can be expensive, and labor times may be longer due to specialized mounting brackets and alignment checks.
Always verify with a local shop for a vehicle-specific estimate, as engine placement and mount design vary widely by model and year.
Summary
Replacing engine mounts is a common maintenance task that can be affordable or costly depending on your vehicle and the scope of the job. For most cars, plan for a few hundred dollars per mount, with larger totals for multiple mounts or premium vehicles. Shop around, compare parts and labor, and ensure you understand what’s included in the estimate—particularly whether engine or subframe access is required and whether a test/align is included. With careful planning, you can restore ride quality and engine stability without breaking the bank.
