What is an engine mount?

[Isaiah]

An engine mount refers to the connection point between the engine and the vehicle body. The functions of engine mounts are as follows: Engine mount eliminates resonance: When the engine is running, it generates certain vibrations. The engine mount contains rubber components that can absorb and eliminate the resonance produced during engine operation. Pressure relief function of engine mount: Some engine mounts also feature hydraulic oil pressure relief capabilities. If the engine mount is damaged, the vibrations from the engine can cause the entire vehicle body to vibrate. Effects of damaged engine mount: Typically, there are three engine mounts fixed to the vehicle frame. If one is damaged and not replaced promptly, it can disrupt the balance and accelerate the wear and tear of the other two mounts.

[LaAugust]

I've seen plenty of these in my years running an auto repair shop. What folks commonly call 'engine mounts' are actually the colloquial name for engine supports, mainly used to secure the engine's position on the chassis. Think about it—the engine keeps vibrating while running, and these mounts rely on internal rubber blocks or hydraulic fluid to absorb those vibrations, ensuring your steering wheel doesn't shake and your seat stays smooth while driving. But rubber hardens after five or six years, and oil leaks are common. Once they age and crack, you'll notice a humming noise inside the car, and even the rearview mirror shakes at red lights. If they fail completely and suddenly break, the engine could shift and damage other parts. During routine maintenance, it's important to have a mechanic check for cracks—replacing a set of OEM mounts only costs a few hundred bucks.

[OEmma]

Engine mounts? We mechanics know them best. Simply put, they're brackets installed under the engine for cushioning, containing rubber or hydraulic structures. With the engine spinning thousands of times per minute, without them the frame would crack from vibration. Especially in winter when rubber hardens, it's normal to hear a thud for a couple seconds at startup. But if the body shakes excessively on bumpy roads, it needs checking. The worst is when hydraulic fluid leaks out completely - not only does acceleration weaken, but the shaking makes even the AC vents sing. Last time I saw an owner tough it out for six months, and it ended up pulling the transmission mount out of alignment too - a huge loss.

[DelEthan]

A seasoned driver with over 20 years of experience tells you: The engine mount is essentially the car's shock-absorbing leg. It's a rubber block placed under the engine to absorb vibrations, and it's bound to wear out over time. My old car is a perfect example—now when accelerating, the steering wheel vibrates like a massage, going over speed bumps sounds like beating a drum, and the rearview mirror shows scenery bouncing like a disco. To check if the engine mount is cracked, just start the car, put it in D gear, and hold the brake. If it shakes like a massage chair, it's basically time for a replacement. Remember, OEM parts might be pricier but last longer, while some aftermarket rubber pads from roadside shops can crumble into pieces after just two years in the sun.