What are the symptoms of aging engine mounts?
2 Answers
Engine mount aging manifests as engine vibration: 1. The driver may feel engine vibration when reversing or starting; 2. The engine vibration is more noticeable when the vehicle is cold, and improves after warming up; 3. The driver can feel vibration in both the steering wheel and brake pedal during engine idle; 4. When driving over speed bumps, the driver may hear a "thud" sound from the engine. Engine mounts are rubber blocks that secure the engine to the frame. As the engine operates, it generates vibrations, and the mounts prevent resonance between the engine and frame, providing cushioning and shock absorption to ensure comfort for both the driver and passengers.
When the engine mounts age, I often encounter this situation during car repairs. The most common symptom is a noticeable increase in vibrations inside the car, especially at idle or low speeds, where you can feel shaking in the steering wheel and seats. As the aging worsens, noise levels also rise, with sounds like humming or knocking around the engine, particularly noticeable during acceleration or gear shifts. Another issue is engine misalignment, which can cause uneven stress on drive belts or pipes, leading to wear on other components. If not replaced in time, vibrations may spread throughout the entire vehicle, affecting driving comfort and even accelerating damage to other parts. I recommend regularly checking the rubber portion of the engine mounts for cracks or hardening signs. If any abnormalities are found, it's best to visit a professional repair shop to replace them as soon as possible, preventing minor issues from turning into costly repairs. For routine maintenance, avoid prolonged driving on bumpy roads, as this can accelerate the aging of the mounts.
