Is there a right and left motor mount?
Yes. In many vehicles, the engine is secured by mounts on the left and right sides, and sometimes additional mounts exist. The terms left and right refer to the engine’s sides as viewed from the front of the car. Some layouts also use front/rear or center mounts depending on design and drivetrain.
In practice, the engine is often supported by two side mounts and may include other supports such as a rear torque mount or a center support to control movement and vibration. The exact arrangement depends on engine orientation (transverse vs longitudinal) and whether the car is front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive.
What motor mounts do
Engine mounts do more than simply hold the engine in place. They cushion vibrations, absorb road shocks, and help control engine torque to protect belts, hoses, and drivetrain components.
Here are the core roles and features you should know about engine mounts.
- Support the engine’s weight and resist gravity, preventing it from sagging toward the ground.
- Dampen engine vibrations and road shocks using rubber, polyurethane, or hydraulic components to improve ride comfort and cabin noise.
- Counteract engine torque during acceleration, keeping the engine from shifting excessively and causing misalignment with belts and pulleys.
- Help maintain proper alignment between the engine and the transmission, exhaust, and cooling systems.
- Provide additional mounting points (such as a center mount or torque strap) on some designs to further reduce movement and improve stiffness.
The following overview shows how left and right mounts are used across common drivetrain layouts.
Left and right mounts across drivetrains
Mount configurations vary by engine orientation and drivetrain. Here is a quick guide to typical setups.
- Front-wheel drive (transverse engine): Typically two main side mounts on the left and right sides of the engine, often supplemented by a rear or front mounting bracket and, in some models, a separate torque arm or subframe mount.
- Rear-wheel drive (longitudinal engine): Usually two side mounts near the front of the engine by the firewall, plus a separate transmission mount; some vehicles add a center mount or torque rod for extra stiffness.
- All-wheel drive: Mounts are generally similar to either FWD or RWD layouts, but AWD models may include additional center or intermediate mounts to handle power distribution and to reduce engine movement.
Note: Specific locations and counts vary by make, model, and engine design, so consult the vehicle’s service manual for exact specifications.
Maintenance and replacement considerations
Engine mounts wear over time and can degrade due to heat, oil contamination, or rubber fatigue. Recognizable signs include increased engine movement, clunking or banging noises, noticeable cabin vibrations at idle or under load, and visible cracks or separation in mount bushings.
When replacing mounts, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications and to inspect related components for wear. Some replacements are straightforward from the engine bay, while others may require lifting the engine or removing related components; if in doubt, have a professional technician perform the service.
- Look for visible signs of wear: cracked rubber, torn bushings, rust at mounting points.
- Check for abnormal engine movement during acceleration, braking, or gear changes.
- Test by listening for noises during idle and revs; vibrations may indicate a bad mount.
- Follow proper safety procedures when supporting the engine during replacement and ensure alignment with the transmission and subframe.
Regular inspection as part of routine maintenance can prevent drivetrain misalignment and reduce stress on belts and hoses.
Summary
Yes, many vehicles use left and right motor mounts, with additional mounts possible depending on engine orientation and drivetrain. The left-right configuration helps anchor the engine, damp vibrations, and control torque, while variations exist between front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive setups. If you notice unusual noises or vibrations, a mount inspection can save more extensive drivetrain damage down the line.
