Why are engine mounts important?
Generally weighing between 130 to 350kg (approx 300–800lbs), your car’s engine is one of its heaviest components. Due to the engine’s weight, it needs to be mounted in place. This prevents the engine from moving or shaking while you drive.
Engine mounts (or motor mounts) are designed to limit engine movement and dampen vibrations by mounting your engine and transmission to your car’s frame of chassis. Engine mounts are often made of high-duty rubber or steel, allowing them to support the full weight of the engine. Most of the time, an engine will have three or four mounts holding it in place.
Over time, the engine mounts will be subject to heat, cold, vibration, twisting torque of the engine, wear and perishing. This often results in the engine mounts being unable to hold the engine in place as effectively. An insecure engine can make your vehicle unsafe or uncomfortable to drive. It can also lead to you failing your Warrant of Fitness.
Learn more about WOF requirements for engines in NZ
Can an insecure engine damage other components?
Several parts such as the drive belt and hoses are within close proximity of the engine and other chassis parts. This means that excessive engine movement can cause damage. The longer the engine remains insecure, the more likely these and other parts can become damaged.
A loose engine can also cause damage to the engine itself. This is because the sides of the engine will impact surrounding areas, causing parts to become weakened or seriously damaged.
Is it safe to drive with an insecure engine?
Insecure engine mounts can affect the safety of your car by creating vibrations and loud, powerful impacts particularly while changing gears, and accelerating and braking . For this reason, it is not recommended that you drive your car when the engine mounts are not working correctly.
Signs & symptoms of engine mount damage
- Vibrations – One of the first symptoms of an insecure engine is strong vibrations coming from your engine bay which you can feel through the car while driving or at idle.
- Loud clunking noises – You may notice loud clunking or thumping noises coming from the engine bay. This can be due to the engine moving around and hitting other parts of your car. These noises may be most obvious when you come to a stop quickly or while changing gears or accelerating.
- Engine sagging – Upon examining the engine, it may appear to be sagging towards one side or corner. The location of sagging can help you to determine which engine mount is damaged.
Engine Mount Replacement & WOF Work in Hamilton
Is your car in need of new engine mounts? If so, our team of excellent mechanics can help you. Regardless of your car’s size, engine type or model, we can source the correct engine mounts for your car and install them for you. This will allow for a smoother, safer driving experience.
For new engine mount installation in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!