Auto Anatomy: Engine Mount

Combustion engines undergo several chemical reactions to enough energy for the vehicle. These reactions create a significant amount of vibration that can move the engine. Therefore, a special type of support (mount) is installed to keep the engine and transmission at their place. 

In this guide, we will discuss details about the engine mount problems, function and usage. 

What is Engine Mount?

An engine mount can be defined as a special support system that withholds the engine and transition system at their places. Usually, one mount is the bolt transmission and car frame, whereas two or more mounts are used to bolt engines. Engine mounts are often created from rubber to avoid any sort of additional friction or sound. Some engine mounts are also filled with liquid to avoid wear and tear. This was the engine mount meaning, let’s discuss different types of engine mounts in detail. 

Types of Engine Mounts

The engine mounts have been greatly modified since their initiation. Currently, there are multiple types of engine mounts used in cars. Here we have listed some most commonly used engine mounts.

• Hydraulic Mount: These mounts are filled with fluid or gel. It is used in high power engines like V8 and V12 engines. 
• Solid Rubber Mount: These are solid rubber mounts backed by steel plates. This material combination provides higher shock absorbance and flexibility for movement. 
• Metal Mount: These are the most strongest and stiff mounts that directly transfer all the additional energy to the tyres. 
• Electronic (Active) Mount: These mounts are connected with a car computer and act as per the vibration and sound being produced. The mount stiffness damping characteristics are variable in active mounts. 

Importance of Engine Mount

The engine mounts should be confused with a normal nut and bolt. These are specially designed shock absorbers to reduce the impact of vibration created by the engine. By holding car transmission and engine in place mounts work both ways. It secures the engine position and reduces the wear and tear of the car frame and chassis. See the following postulates that elaborate the importance of the engine mount. 

• Secure engine from damages
• Lowers the impact of vibration and reduce noises
• Safeguard chassis and transmission from damage
• Increase the lifespan of engine parts and sensors connected to it  

Despite its importance and widespread usage, there are some common problems encountered by engine mounts. See the following list of general problems of engine mount. 

Common Causes of Failing Engine Mount 

With no exception, engine mounts secure their significant position under the hood. For its proper functioning, regular maintenance and precautionary measures are necessary. Here is the list of common problems that lead to a worn-out engine mount.

• Incorrect installations of mount lead to improper fitting that increases vibrations and sound. This can cause damage to both the engine and chassis. 
• Too much stressing of the engine creates additional heat that can melt or de-shape the rubber mounts. In this case, replacement is the only option. 
• Front collision of a car can cause permanent damage to engine mounts. 
• Fluid leaks in hydraulic mounts are the common cause of worn-out engine mounts. 

Symptoms of Failing Engine Mount

A number of symptoms can identify a worn-out or damaged engine mount. The most common symptoms of a damaged engine mount are mentioned below.

• Bumpy Ride: Damaged mount causes jolt and thrust while changing gears, as the transmission is not properly attached with the car frame. These jolts can also be observed while driving at a higher speed.  
• Escalated Vibrations: It is the most common symptom of a failing engine mount. More than usual vibrations are observed throughout the journey.  
• Rocky Start: Excessive lurch and vibrations are observed from the car ignition system. These lurches are followed by excessive vibrations and sounds. 
• Physical Damage: Corrosion, cracks and leaks are often observed when mounts are damaged. 

Cost of Replacing Engine Mount

When the engine mount is damaged or worn-out immediate replacement is required. It is one of the auto parts that can severely impact your vehicle’s functioning. An engine mount will cost you around AED 350, whereas the labor charges will be around AED 450 for affordable sedans. The price may vary from car model to model. Moreover, some vehicles require an un-installation of suspension that necessitates wheel alignment, thus increasing the overall price.

This was all about engine mount and its usage in vehicles. The mount plays a crucial role in maintaining vibration and noise levels in the vehicle. In modern vehicles, these mounts are electronically controlled which increases their life span and efficiency. If you are facing engine mount issues repeatedly it’s time to browse these used cars for sale in the UAE, and upgrade your vehicle. 

Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on the engine mount.