Car mechanics are always trying to find ways to save money, and one way they do this is by replacing motor mounts. However, like most things in life, there’s a cost to this.
In this article, we will explore the different factors that go into choosing a motor mount replacement and give you an idea of what to expect when it comes time for your car’s mounts to come out. But first, lets talk about what a motor mount is.
What Is A Motor Mount?
A motor mount is a small, circular support structure that holds your motorcycle’s engine in place. It keeps the engine from oscillating and rotating, which can cause vibration and wear on other components.
Motor mounts also help to reduce noise and improve handling. When they start to wear out or become damaged, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible so your bike can continue performing at its best.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Motor Mounts?
The average cost of replacing a motor mount varies depending on the make and model of the car but typically costs between $200 and $600. The main factors that affect how much it costs to replace a motor mount include the make and model of the car, the type of mount, and whether or not it needs to be replaced entirely.
Replacing motor mounts can be costly, depending on your car’s make and model. Typical costs for a Chevrolet Camaro mounts include $800 for the left mount and $300 for the right mount. For a Ford Mustang, the cost is typically between $235 and $295.
The following include average rates for replacing a motor mount in popular vehicles:
| Vehicle | Motor Mount Cost | Labor Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic | $124-$459 | $160-$274 |
| Dodge Dart | $41-$293 | $120-$256 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $43-$184 | $185-$360 |
| Mercedes e350 | $220-$898 | $185-$690 |
| BMW x3 | $139-$285 | $300-$445 |
| Chevy Impala | $27-$183 | $165-$354 |
| Ford Focus | $64-$212 | $95-$234 |
| Nissan Altima | $74-$264 | $105-$328 |
| Nissan Maxima | $43-$463 | $199-$445 |
| Toyota Camry | $160-$284 | $92-$327 |
Many factors can affect motor mount replacement costs, such as make and model, horsepower, vehicle age, and even whether or not the automatic or manual transmission is chosen. Replacement mounts should always be inspected to ensure that they are in good condition before installation.
Some do-it-yourselfers boast that they have fitted replacements for less than $100. Many motor or engine and transmission mounts can be replaced for far less.
Be mindful, though, that lifting any engine is a major undertaking, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, attempting to handle this type of repair on your own might cause catastrophic harm to your engine and your vehicle.
It’s recommended to leave this task to a mechanic unless you are very certain that you know what you’re doing.
Engine mounts are rubber blocks installed on steel brackets with bolts, which support the engine and lessen vibration and noise from the engine that is heard and felt in the passenger area. There are typically three or four.
More vibration or engine movement under throttle and increased noise are typical signs that the rubber is wearing down or cracking or the steel brackets are breaking. The engine may shift a few inches or more when mounts are damaged. While driving, you might also hear a “clunk” from the engine compartment.
Depending on the vehicle, replacement engine mounts and bolts can cost as little as $50 or as much as $200 at parts stores. However, liquid-filled mounts are more expensive.
Remember that motor mounts must be built using strong and durable materials because they must firmly support a lot of weight.
Signs Of A Failed Motor Mount
If you’re noticing signs that your motor mount is failing, it’s time to replace them. Motor mounts are one of the most common areas that need to be replaced on a motorcycle, and they can cost a lot of money. Here are some signs that your motor mount is about to give out:
- Noise: Listen for unusual noises coming from under the hood when you accelerate or shift gears. If you hear grinding or clunking sounds, it could mean that the motor mounts need to be replaced.
- Vibration: Vibrations in your steering wheel or seat indicate that there is an issue with your drivetrain or transmission. You may also feel vibrations through the brakes when you apply pressure to them. These vibrations will be more pronounced when you’re driving at higher speeds or during hard braking maneuvers.
- Poor Shifting: If you have difficulty shifting gears smoothly, it could mean that one or more of your drivetrain components are misaligned or worn out. This includes your transmission, clutch disc, flywheel, ring gear assembly and/or engine mounts (which support the engine).
- Poor acceleration: If your engine is vibrating excessively when accelerating, this could be another sign that your car motor mounts are failing.
Why Are Motor Mounts So Expensive to Replace?
Motor mounts are one of the most common components to fail on vehicles. When a motor mount fails, the vehicle can experience vibrations, knocking, and even total loss of power. Motor mounts are also one of the most expensive parts to replace on a car.
The cost of replacing a motor mount varies depending on the make and model of the car but typically costs between $200 and $600. The main factors that affect how much it costs to replace a motor mount include the make and model of the car, the type of mount, and whether or not it needs to be replaced entirely.
The main reason why motor mounts are expensive to replace is that most auto manufacturers have decided to stop using them in new vehicles. Instead, they now use rubber bushings that are molded into place on top of each replacement mount.
This makes it easier for mechanics to install but it also means that these bushings are not as durable as the traditional metal bushing style mounts used previously by most auto manufacturers.
When you compare the cost of replacing a failed motor mount with a cheap replacement part versus replacing it with an OEM-style replacement part, you will see that paying more for a genuine OEM replacement may be worth every penny!
If you’re considering replacing your motor mounts, consult with a mechanic first to get an estimate for what it will cost.
Why the Cost of Replacing Motor Mounts Is Higher at a Dealer or Garage
Motor mounts are one of the most common areas on a car that need to be replaced. This is because they can become loose and cause a car to shake or vibrate. Additionally, if the mount becomes loose, it could lead to major damage to the engine or other components.
The cost of replacing motor mounts at a dealership or garage can vary greatly depending on the make and model of the car. However, in general, mounts that are located near the engine can cost between $200 and $1,000 while mounts that are located near other parts of the car can cost between $50 and $100.
The reason why replacing motor mounts costs more at a dealer or garage is because they charge significantly more than local mechanics do. The difference in price comes down to overhead costs — dealerships need to pay their employees a decent wage, install parts at factory prices and pay taxes just like any other business would.
Final Thoughts
Motor mounts can be a costly repair, and it’s important to have an idea of what the cost might be before you get started. You’ll need to factor in the labor costs as well as the materials necessary to replace the mount.
Once you know how much it will cost, make a list of items and take it to your mechanic for a price quote. If you can save money by doing the repairs yourself, do so; but don’t forget that even with proper mounting and maintenance, motors can still fail over time. Be sure to keep an eye on your motor mounts and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible!