What are the symptoms of a bad engine mount?
3 Answers
Symptoms of a bad engine mount include: 1. The driver may feel engine vibration when reversing or starting the vehicle; 2. The engine shakes noticeably when the car is cold, but the condition improves after the engine warms up; 3. The driver can feel vibrations in the steering wheel and brake pedal when the engine is idling; 4. When driving over speed bumps, the driver may hear a 'thud' noise from the engine. The engine mount rubber is used to secure the engine to the vehicle frame. During engine operation, vibrations occur, and the presence of engine mount rubber helps prevent resonance between the engine and the frame, providing cushioning and vibration damping effects, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers.
When driving, if the engine mount is broken, you can feel the car vibrating intensely, especially at idle or when starting off—the body shakes so much it makes your whole body numb, and the steering wheel trembles too. During acceleration or climbing hills, the engine's movement can produce unpleasant knocking sounds, sharp like metal hitting metal. If left unfixed for long, it can easily lead to broken water hoses or exhaust pipes, making repairs even more troublesome. I remember last time my neighbor’s car ended up with a leaking radiator due to delayed repairs, costing a fortune. If you notice symptoms like vibrations, strange noises, or rough gear shifts, don’t delay—get a mechanic to check it out immediately. Safety comes first.
Detecting engine mount failure is not difficult to spot abnormalities. The most common signs are increased body vibration while driving, and severe engine shaking at idle that amplifies interior noise. During acceleration or throttle application, a rattling sound may be heard from the mount area. Gently push the engine to check its wobble amplitude - excessive movement may reveal bracket deformation or oil leakage traces. Prolonged vibration risks damaging the cooling system or affecting chassis integrity, increasing accident hazards. We recommend having technicians inspect mounts during routine maintenance, as this simple procedure can prevent major losses.
