Your vehicle's engine mounts, also known as motor mounts, are often overlooked but essential for keeping your car running. These mounts secure the engine to the vehicle's frame, absorbing vibrations and shocks from the road. Over time, they can wear out, leading to significant issues with your car's performance, comfort, and safety. How can you tell when it's time to replace them? Let's look at the five signs that your engine mounts might need replacement.
What Are the Engine Mounts?
Engine mounts serve as the connecting point between your engine and your vehicle’s chassis. They’re typically made of rubber and metal, with the rubber portion absorbing vibrations and the metal providing a secure hold. These mounts help keep your engine aligned, prevent excessive vibrations from reaching the cabin, and ensure smooth transmission of power.
As sturdy as engine mounts may be, they don’t last forever. The constant stress of holding a heavy engine in place, along with exposure to heat, vibration, and oil leaks, can cause these mounts to wear out or break. Let’s take a closer look at the five signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement.
1. Excessive Engine Vibrations
One of the most noticeable symptoms of worn engine mounts is increased vibrations inside the cabin. When the rubber portion of the mount deteriorates, it loses its ability to absorb engine vibrations effectively. If you start feeling a strong shaking or vibrating sensation, especially when the car is idling, this could be a sign that the engine mounts are no longer doing their job.
You might also feel these vibrations when accelerating or driving at higher speeds. While some vibrations are normal, a sudden increase in intensity could point to a failing mount.
2. Clunking or Banging Noises
Another common sign of worn engine mounts is unusual noises, particularly when shifting gears or accelerating. If the mounts have become loose or damaged, the engine may move excessively within the engine bay, causing a clunking or banging sound. These noises occur when the engine shifts and hits other components under the hood.
The sound may be more pronounced when driving over bumps, accelerating hard, or quickly shifting gears. Ignoring these sounds could lead to further damage to your vehicle’s engine and transmission, so it’s best to get them checked out as soon as possible.
3. Engine Misalignment
Engine mounts not only secure the engine but also keep it properly aligned with the rest of the vehicle. When mounts wear out, the engine may sag or shift within the engine bay, leading to misalignment. This can cause a range of issues, including poor handling, vibrations, and even damage to other components, such as the driveshaft or exhaust system.
If you notice that your vehicle is pulling to one side or if you spot a visible tilt in the engine when you pop the hood, these could be indicators of engine misalignment caused by failing mounts.
4. Rough Gear Shifting
Worn engine mounts can also affect the way your vehicle shifts gears. If the engine isn’t securely in place, you might experience jerky or rough gear changes, especially when shifting into reverse or drive. The shifting may feel less smooth, with noticeable resistance or a delay in response.
This happens because the transmission and engine need to be aligned for gears to shift properly. When the mounts wear out, the engine can shift slightly during gear changes, leading to rough or delayed shifting. If left unchecked, this can also cause damage to your transmission over time.
5. Excessive Engine Movement
While the engine is supposed to remain securely in place, a failing mount can lead to visible engine movement. If the engine moves excessively when starting the car, accelerating, or braking, it’s a clear sign that the mounts are no longer holding the engine in place properly.
You can sometimes observe this by popping the hood and having someone start the engine while you watch. If the engine noticeably jumps or shifts, it's a good idea to get your mounts inspected by a professional before the problem worsens.
Ensure your engine is secured and performing its best. Schedule a maintenance check at Auto Excel and let our team assess and replace worn engine mounts to keep your car in top condition.