Engine mount replacement typically costs between $200 and $800 per mount, depending on which mount needs replacement, your vehicle's make and model, and whether you go to a dealership or independent shop

An engine mount is a rubber-and-metal component that holds your engine in place and absorbs vibration as it runs. When one fails, you'll notice excessive shaking, especially when accelerating or braking. Replacing a single mount is usually cheaper than replacing all of them at once, but the labor time varies widely — some mounts take 30 minutes to access, while others require removing other engine components first.

The price you pay depends on four main factors: which of your engine's mounts has failed (front, rear, or side mounts cost different amounts), whether your vehicle is a common model or a specialty vehicle, whether you choose a dealership or independent mechanic, and whether the shop finds additional damage while doing the work.

Key Takeaways

  • A single engine mount replacement ranges from $200 to $800, with labor making up the larger portion of the cost in most cases.
  • Dealerships typically charge 30 to 50 percent more than independent shops for the same work, though they may offer longer warranties.
  • Some vehicles require removing the engine partially or removing other components to access certain mounts, which adds hours to the job and increases labor costs significantly.
  • Worn engine mounts can damage other parts over time, so delaying replacement may result in higher total repair costs later.

How the parts cost breaks down

The rubber-and-metal mount itself usually costs $50 to $250 depending on the vehicle. A Honda Civic engine mount costs less than a BMW or Audi mount because those parts are manufactured in higher volume and competition keeps prices lower. Luxury vehicles and trucks often have more expensive mounts because fewer shops stock them and manufacturers control the supply more tightly.

Some vehicles have hydraulic engine mounts (filled with fluid to dampen vibration better) instead of solid rubber ones. These cost more — sometimes $150 to $400 for the part alone — because they're more complex to manufacture and fewer shops can install them.

The shop will also charge a disposal fee for the old mount, usually $10 to $25, though some shops include this in their labor charge.

Labor costs vary based on how hard the mount is to reach

Labor is where the price swings most dramatically. A front engine mount on a sedan might take 0.5 to 1 hour to replace, while a rear mount on the same vehicle could take 2 to 3 hours because the mechanic has to remove the transmission crossmember or other components to access it. Shops charge $75 to $150 per hour for labor, so a straightforward job might cost $40 to $150 in labor, while a difficult one could cost $300 to $450.

Some vehicles require removing the engine partially or dropping it slightly to access certain mounts. This adds 1 to 2 hours to the job and can push labor costs to $400 or more. Your mechanic can tell you the estimated labor time once they know which mount has failed and what vehicle you drive.

Dealership versus independent shop pricing

Dealerships charge $100 to $200 per hour for labor, while independent shops typically charge $75 to $150. For a job that takes 1.5 hours, that's a difference of $37 to $90 in labor alone. On top of that, dealerships often mark up parts by 20 to 40 percent compared to what an independent shop pays.

Dealerships do offer advantages: they have factory parts in stock, their technicians are trained specifically on your vehicle model, and they typically offer a 12-month or 24-month warranty on the work. Independent shops often offer 12-month warranties as well, and some offer longer ones. If your vehicle is still under the manufacturer's warranty, taking it to the dealership may be required to keep the warranty valid, though this depends on your specific warranty terms.

What to expect when you get a quote

Call or visit 2 to 3 shops and describe the symptom — excessive vibration when accelerating, or shaking at idle — rather than diagnosing which mount has failed yourself. The shop will inspect the vehicle and tell you which mount is worn and how much the repair will cost. A complete quote should include the part cost, labor hours and rate, and any additional fees.

Ask whether the quote includes a warranty on the work and for how long. Ask whether the shop will inspect the other mounts while they have the engine area open, since worn mounts often fail in pairs or groups. Some shops will do this inspection at no extra charge; others charge $50 to $100 for a full engine mount inspection.

If the shop finds that multiple mounts are worn, you can replace them all at once (which saves labor time since the engine area is already open) or replace only the failed one now and plan to replace the others later. Replacing all mounts at once typically costs $600 to $2,000 depending on how many need replacement and how difficult they are to access.

Why timing matters for your wallet

A worn engine mount puts extra stress on the mounts that are still working, on engine brackets, and on transmission mounts. Delaying replacement can cause those parts to fail prematurely, turning a $400 repair into a $1,200 repair. If a mount fails completely while you're driving, the engine can shift enough to damage hoses, belts, or the radiator, which adds hundreds more to the bill.

If you notice the shaking symptom, getting a diagnosis costs $50 to $150 at most shops. That diagnosis tells you whether you need the repair now or whether you can wait a few months while you save money. Most shops will not charge for the diagnosis if you decide to have them do the repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a bad engine mount?

Yes, but not safely for long. Excessive vibration can damage other engine components, and in rare cases a completely failed mount can allow the engine to shift enough to damage hoses or belts. Most people notice the shaking becomes unbearable before any real damage occurs, so you'll likely want the repair before safety becomes an issue.

Do all engine mounts fail at the same time?

Not usually, but they often fail within a few years of each other because they experience the same wear. If one mount has failed, the others are likely aged and stressed. Many shops recommend inspecting all mounts when one fails, and replacing multiple mounts at once if they're all worn.

Is there a difference between OEM and aftermarket engine mounts?

OEM (original equipment manufacturer) mounts are made by the vehicle's manufacturer and typically cost 10 to 30 percent more than aftermarket mounts. Aftermarket mounts are made by third-party suppliers and are usually the same quality, though some are better than others. Ask your mechanic which brand they recommend for your vehicle.

Will my check engine light come on if an engine mount fails?

Not usually. A failed engine mount causes vibration and shaking, but it doesn't trigger the engine's diagnostic system unless the movement is severe enough to damage a sensor or wire. If your check engine light is on, that's a separate issue worth diagnosing.

How long do engine mounts last?

Engine mounts typically last 5 to 10 years or 80,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and the vehicle. Frequent short trips, towing, or aggressive acceleration can wear them out faster. Regular maintenance won't extend their life, but catching the failure early prevents damage to other parts.