How Much Does Motor Mount Replacement Cost?

Last Updated on September 21, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Motor mounts play a crucial role in properly securing the engine and reducing destabilizing vibrations. But when these essential components wear out, how much does it typically cost to replace bad motor mounts?

This guide examines average motor mount replacement parts pricing, labor costs, how to diagnose mount problems, when proactive replacement is recommended, and proven ways to save money on this common vehicle repair.

Article Highlights

• Average total costs range $400 to $800
• Shop quotes from multiple experienced mechanics
• Labor fees typically run $150 to $500
• Replace based on age, mileage, and symptom severity
• DIY is possible but requires automotive tools and skills

How Much Does Motor Mount Replacement Cost?

In total, expect to budget an average of $400 to $800 or more for a complete motor mount replacement job. More complex vehicle configurations like luxury sedans or 4×4 trucks can exceed $1,000 if accessibility is challenging or multiple mounts require replacement.

For motor mount replacement, car owners will pay for:

• Parts or Mounts – Anywhere from $50 to $300+ per individual mount, depending on whether using original OEM factory parts versus affordable aftermarket mounts.
• Labor – Typically around $150 to $500 in mechanic shop fees depending on the vehicle’s complexity and configuration to access and replace mounts.
• Misc. Shop Materials/Disposal – Small fees for fasteners, cleaning chemicals, lubricants, shop supplies, and worn part disposal.

According to AutoZone, basic motor mounts can start as low as $10 for simple rubber mounts, while more complex hydraulic or active motor mounts can range from $50 to $200.

The labor costs associated with replacing motor mounts can also vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to $450, depending on how accessible the mount is within the engine bay. For instance, if a mount is easily accessible, it may take only about 30 minutes for a mechanic to replace it, whereas more complicated installations could take two hours or more.

In a detailed overview from RepairPal, the average cost for an engine mount replacement is estimated to be between $476 and $527. This estimate breaks down into labor costs ranging from $193 to $243 and parts priced between $283 and $284. These figures do not include taxes and fees and may vary based on location and specific vehicle models.

Red Rock Repair notes that for commuter cars, the replacement cost can be as low as $300 to $500. However, larger vehicles with complex drivetrains using hydraulic or electric mounts may see costs rise significantly, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars. They emphasize that the best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult with a trusted repair shop.

Critical Functions of Motor Mounts?

Motor mounts, also called engine mounts, are reinforced mounting brackets that securely attach the engine and transmission to the metal frame of a vehicle. They perform several vital mechanical duties:

• Absorb engine vibrations and movement to minimize noise and harmonic disturbances. This creates smoother driving.
• Allow controlled engine tilt and motion from torque forces during acceleration and gear shifting.
• Prevent excessive engine rocking and displacement that could damage other components.
• Insulate the cabin from noise and vibration caused by combustion and moving parts.

When rubber or hydraulic motor mounts become excessively worn, damaged, or cracked, the engine can violently shake or make disruptive knocking and clunking noises. Prompt replacement restores proper positioning and quiet operation.

Factors Influencing Motor Mount Replacement Costs

Several variables impact what drivers will pay in parts and labor costs for replacing bad motor mounts:

• The vehicle make and model – More complex engine configurations require more technician time and specialized tools to replace mounts.
• Geographic location – Hourly shop labor rates average $60 to $100+ in smaller towns up to over $150 per hour in major metro areas.
• Type of mount used – Original OEM hydraulic or electronic mounts cost more than affordable aftermarket rubber replacements.
• Number of mounts requiring replacement – Replacing multiple degraded mounts adds shop time versus just one defective mount.

In general, larger truck or SUV models demand higher parts and labor prices for mount work than simpler economy sedans, especially when located in a higher-cost urban area.

You might also like our articles about the cost of engine rebuilding. engine splash shield replacement, or engine reboring.

Popular Vehicle Model Costs

To illustrate the pricing variance, here are sample cost ranges for replacing worn motor mounts on some top-selling models requiring this repair:

• 2007 Jeep Wrangler – $422 to $588
• 2009 BMW 328i – $495 to $650
• 2009 Nissan Altima – $219 to $542
• 2009 Toyota RAV4 – $364 to $597

As shown, luxury and performance-oriented brands like BMW and Jeep that demand OEM quality parts tend to cost more in both parts and labor fees versus basic economy cars using cheaper aftermarket components.

Recognize Symptoms

Watch for these warning signs that worn motor mounts likely need replacement:

• Excessive vehicle vibration – Especially pronounced at idle but smoothing out once above 40+ mph.
• Clunking knocks or banging noises – When starting the engine or accelerating from a stop.
• Visible engine movement – If the motor tilts or rocking is apparent when looking under the hood or during gear changes.

Don’t delay repairs after noticing these symptoms, since extremely degraded mounts are at high risk of failing completely, causing extensive secondary damage.

When Should You Replace Motor Mounts?

Most manufacturers recommend inspecting engine motor mounts for signs of cracking, leaking, or excessive play:

• At 60,000 miles as part of routine maintenance
• Again at 150,000 to 200,000 miles before they fail

Catching mount problems early via visual inspections and using a pry bar for movement tests prevents more serious damage from uncontrolled engine rocking.

DIY vs Professional Mechanic Replacement

For do-it-yourselfers, motor mount replacement offers:

• Substantial parts savings buying discounted mounts online
• Avoiding $150 to $500 in shop labor fees
• Sense of personal accomplishment

However, DIY carries risks and downsides:

• Requires automotive tools many lack access to like impact wrenches and jacks
• Can take a novice days compared to a shop completing in hours
• Physical challenges working cramped under low engine bays
• Voids warranties if an error occurs

Carefully weigh ability, required tools, and time savings against benefits of professional experience. Get quotes to determine if DIY payoff merits your effort.

Expert Insights

Industry specialists suggest these money-saving tips:

“Get price quotes from at least 3 mechanics to compare labor rates and part markups.” – Mark Thompson, ASE Master Technician

“When possible, opt for affordable aftermarket mounts over pricier OEM parts.” – Olivia Martinez, Auto Shop Owner

“If multiple mounts are degraded, get them all replaced at once to consolidate labor time versus individually.” – James Lee, Mechanic

“Avoid unnecessary upsells for added services like fuel induction cleaning.” – David Chen, Auto Industry Analyst

Their insider advice helps drivers minimize costs for this essential engine integrity repair.

Final Words

Worn motor mounts should be promptly replaced before severe vibration and knocking symptoms arise to prevent extensive secondary damage from uncontrolled engine movement.

Showing early warning signs, high mileage vehicles over 100,000 miles are smart candidates for proactive mount replacements during routine maintenance, especially for trucks and performance models prone to aggressive movements.

While parts and labor make mounts no small investment, a few hundred dollars now spares thousands down the road on repairs from ignored mounts. With wise shopping for quality discounted parts and competitive regional mechanic quotes, drivers can control costs while securing many additional years of safe, smooth vehicle operation.

Answers to Common Questions

Below are answers to some common reader questions on driving habits, repair scope, and longevity relating to bad motor mounts:

Can you drive with a bad motor mount?

It’s not recommended, as degraded mounts place added stress on surrounding components and the vibrations tend to worsen rapidly. Get the mount inspected and repaired as soon as realistically possible.

Is replacing engine mounts a big job?

On most vehicles it takes approximately 2-4 hours of shop labor to replace multiple mounts. While not quick, it’s less intensive than major drivetrain overhauls of the transmission or engine itself.

Do I need to replace all four motor mounts?

Not necessarily – an experienced mechanic can determine if only one or subset of mounts require replacement versus proactively replacing all. However, it’s wise to inspect all mounts when issues are reported to avoid repeat labor charges down the road.

What’s the best way to diagnose which motor mount(s) need replacement?

Visual inspection coupled with using a pry bar to check for excessive play or movement of each mount isolating them one by one provides the most precise diagnosis. A stethoscope can also help pinpoint the source of knocking sounds.