A vehicle’s transmission mount might not get much attention, but it’s one of the unsung heroes of your drivetrain. Its job is deceptively simple: secure the transmission to the chassis while isolating vibrations and maintaining proper alignment between the engine and transmission.
A good mount doesn’t just hold things in place—it absorbs engine torque, reduces drivetrain noise, and protects surrounding components from stress. But like any wear-and-tear part, it has a finite lifespan. Heat, constant flexing, exposure to road contaminants, and even aggressive driving can break down the mount’s materials over time.
When it fails, the consequences go far beyond a rougher ride. A compromised mount can lead to misalignment, premature wear of critical components, and costly secondary repairs.
Below, we’ll break down the signs of a failing transmission mount, explain why each happens, and show you what to do about it.
Most mounts use a combination of metal and rubber (or polyurethane) to provide both strength and vibration isolation. Some fluid-filled designs improve comfort further. Over time, rubber hardens, cracks, or separates from the metal housing. Fluid-filled mounts can leak. Even the metal portions can weaken under repeated stress.
When these issues develop, the mount loses its ability to keep the transmission stable and properly aligned.
|
Symptom |
Why it Happens |
What to Do Next |
|
Excessive vibration in the cabin |
Rubber or fluid in the mount has degraded, reducing vibration damping. |
Inspect all drivetrain mounts; replace if rubber is cracked, hardened, or leaking. |
|
Clunking or banging noises during shifts |
Transmission is moving excessively under torque and striking chassis components. |
Safely observe drivetrain movement during power braking; replace worn mounts. |
|
Misaligned driveshaft or CV joints |
Failing mount causes drivetrain misalignment, stressing other components. |
Check for uneven wear on U-joints/CV joints; inspect mount and alignment points. |
|
Visible cracks, tears, or sagging |
Physical deterioration of the mount from age, heat, or contamination. |
Perform a visual inspection with the vehicle lifted; use a pry bar for movement check. |
|
Sudden shifting difficulty |
Misalignment is affecting shift linkage or cables. |
Inspect mounts before assuming an internal transmission fault. |
Ignoring a failing transmission mount is risky. Excess vibration and drivetrain movement don’t just make for an uncomfortable drive—they can accelerate wear on:
Over time, the increased stress can lead to cracked housings, bent linkages, or damaged seals—repairs that can cost far more than simply replacing the mount early.
When replacing a mount, match the specifications exactly:
At Auto Matic Kings, we stock and rebuild mounts for domestic, import, late-model, and vintage transmissions. Every mount we sell is inspected for material integrity, proper bonding, and dimensional accuracy, ensuring you get a component that performs as intended from day one.
While mounts are wear items, you can extend their life by:
Your transmission mount may be small, but it has an outsized impact on drivetrain performance and longevity. Catching early signs—vibration, clunking, visible wear—can prevent bigger, costlier problems down the road.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. The sooner you address a failing mount, the better you protect your transmission and your wallet!