Hi, my name is Angela, and as the wife of a mechanic, I was constantly tripping over car parts and complaining about the rows of project cars lining our garden. However, after a few years, I quit complaining and actually found joy in the art of auto repair. Inspired by that classic book, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance", I decided to start working on cars with my husband. This blog is the culmination of everything I have learned and more. I hope you enjoy reading it and that my tips and ideas guide you toward a healthier car and a happier, safer driving experience.
Engine mounts aren't often parts that people give a lot of thought to, but they form a vital function in keeping your car running properly. Positioned around your engine, they help control its movements during every drive. You can think of them as a kind of suspension system for your engine. Unfortunately, the metal and rubber that your engine mounts are made from can wear down naturally over time. They can also be negatively impacted by anything from aggressive driving to driving on rough or uneven terrain.
It can be easy to ignore an engine mount that has gone bad, especially since you can keep driving long after one or more has started to fail. However, this is never a good idea, and here are just four reasons why.
1. Noise
One of the first signs of a bad engine mount that most people notice is an increase in noise from beneath the front of their vehicle. When the engine isn't properly supported, sounds are going to be transmitted more loudly. Additionally, the moving parts in an engine that aren't properly aligned can create more noise than they used to. Excess noise should be considered a problem since it makes you less aware of the road and of other road users. It can also create a disturbance when you drive through residential areas.
2. Vibration
Your engine produces a lot of strong vibrations, and one of the main purposes of your engine mounts is to reduce the amount of vibration that's transferred to the rest of your vehicle. When not properly controlled, those vibrations can make it harder for you to control the car and increase the likelihood of damage occurring to another part.
3. Engine Movement
Engine mounts usually won't allow the engine to move when they first become faulty, but this is more likely to occur over time. Even a small amount of movement is a serious issue since it can cause serious damage to both the engine and other surrounding parts. In some cases, the engine can move enough to the left or right to make your vehicle steer slightly to the side.
4. Fluid Leaks
Many modern engine mounts are fluid-filled to provide extra cushioning for better movement control. This is especially likely for luxury, performance, and off-road vehicles. Unfortunately, any cracks that are allowed to develop can result in that fluid leaking out, which can damage other parts of the vehicle. You can help prevent that from happening by having your vehicle inspected as soon as you suspect one of the engine mounts is bad.
Reach out to a local auto shop, such as a Mercedes Benz servicing shop, for more information.
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