Engine mounts (engine mount pads) are key components that secure the engine and absorb vibrations. When they become worn, cracked or damaged, they lose their ability to dampen vibrations and secure the engine, leading to a range of abnormal symptoms in the vehicle. Common signs that they need replacing are primarily evident in the following five areas:

1. Abnormal shaking and increased vibration

• Noticeable idling vibration: When the vehicle is idling, engine vibration increases significantly; one can even feel distinct vibrations in the steering wheel, seats or bodywork, and the vibration frequency is abnormal.
• Vibration under specific operating conditions: When starting from a standstill, engaging reverse gear, driving in low gears with high torque (rapid acceleration) or switching on the air conditioning, engine vibration increases significantly, resulting in a sensation of the vehicle ‘jerking’ or ‘shuddering’.
• High-speed vibration: A noticeable vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal whilst driving at high speed.

2. Unusual noises and rattling sounds

• Metal clanging noise: Damage to the mount causes the engine to move excessively, resulting in contact with surrounding components (such as the firewall or subframe) and producing a distinct ‘clang’ or metallic clanging noise, which is particularly noticeable at idle or when changing gears.
• Rubber squeaking noise: When accelerating in second or third gear, a ‘squeaking’ noise caused by the friction of rubber mounts may be heard.
• Resonance noise: Engine vibrations are transmitted directly to the bodywork without being dampened, resulting in a ‘humming’ resonance noise whilst the vehicle is in motion; the sound typically originates from the front of the engine compartment.

3. Engine displacement and abnormal noises

• Noticeable sagging or misalignment of the engine: A visual inspection may reveal that the engine has sagged or tilted noticeably, or that there is an abnormal gap where the engine connects to the gearbox.
• Unusual noises caused by component friction: Engine displacement may cause the exhaust pipe to shift out of position and come into contact with the vehicle body, or may result in friction between surrounding wiring harnesses and components, producing unusual noises.

4. Unusual driving behaviour

• Jerking during gear changes: A noticeable jerk occurs when the vehicle changes gear (particularly when reversing or in low gears), often accompanied by engine vibration.
• Heavy steering: In some models, the engine mounts are linked to the steering system; if the mounts are severely damaged, this may result in the steering feeling heavy.

5. Appearance and signs of ageing (visual inspection)

• Rubber ageing and cracking: During dismantling and inspection or visual inspection, it can be observed that the rubber pads on the support have severely aged, become cracked and hardened, or have completely separated, losing their elasticity.
• Hydraulic oil leakage: The oil seals inside the hydraulic support have failed, resulting in obvious traces of hydraulic oil seepage.

Note: Engine mounts are subject to wear and tear. If several of the symptoms mentioned above are present, this usually indicates that the mounts have deteriorated or are damaged. It is recommended that they be inspected and replaced promptly to prevent engine components from becoming loose due to increased vibration or to avoid more serious mechanical faults.