How to Replace a Transmission Mount

📋 Quick Facts

The transmission mount carries the rear (or side) of the powertrain. When it fails you feel a clunk on shifting and a strong vibration in the cabin under load. DIY replacement is 1-2 hours.

🛠 What You'll Need

• New transmission mount (vehicle-specific) (transmission mount on Amazon)
• Floor jack with a wood block for transmission support (floor jack on Amazon)
• Jack stands (jack stand set on Amazon)
• Socket set with deep sockets (socket set on Amazon)
• Torque wrench (torque wrench on Amazon)
• Penetrating oil (penetrating oil on Amazon)
• Mechanic gloves (mechanic gloves on Amazon)

✅ Before You Start - Checklist

• Park on level, solid ground (no slopes, no soft dirt)
• Engine is at the correct temperature (cold or warm as specified)
• All tools and parts on hand BEFORE you begin
• Owner's manual nearby for torque specs and locations
• Safety: gloves, eye protection, hood propped open

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Verify the transmission mount is the failed oneHave a helper shift through gears with the brake firmly held while you watch the mount. Excessive lift or cracked rubber confirms failure.
2. Park on level ground, set parking brake, chock the wheelsEngine off, fully cool exhaust if it was just driven.
3. Raise the rear (or front) and set jack standsOn RWD support the rear of the vehicle. On FWD the transmission mount is usually on the side near the engine mount.
4. Position a support jack under the transmission panPlace a wide wood block on the jack saddle. Never lift directly on a thin sheet metal pan. Raise just enough to take weight off the mount.
5. Spray penetrating oil on the mount boltsWait 10 minutes. Crossmember bolts can be very stuck on older vehicles.
6. Remove the crossmember bolts (if present)On many RWD vehicles the transmission mount bolts to a removable crossmember. Unbolt the crossmember from the frame rails, then lower or swing it for clearance.
7. Loosen and remove the mount-to-transmission boltsTypically 13-17mm. They are often torqued to 30-45 ft-lb.
8. Loosen and remove the mount-to-crossmember boltsThrough-bolts may need to be tapped out with a punch.
9. Slide the old mount outIf the transmission has dropped slightly, raise the support jack a touch to free the mount.
10. Compare old vs new mountMatch the bolt pattern, stud height, and orientation. Some mounts have a directional arrow.
11. Set the new mount in placeHand-thread all bolts first to avoid cross-threading.
12. Torque the mount-to-transmission bolts to specTypical: 30-45 ft-lb. Verify with service info.
13. Reinstall and torque the crossmemberCrossmember-to-frame bolts are typically 50-70 ft-lb. The through-bolt or center stud nut is usually 35-55 ft-lb.
14. Lower the transmission support jackThe mount should now carry the load. Inspect for any binding in the driveshaft or shift linkage.
15. Lower the vehicle and testStart the engine, shift through gears with brake held, then take a short test drive. No clunks means success.

✅ After You Finish - Verify Checklist

• No tools left in the engine bay or under the car
• Test the system you worked on (start, drive, check, etc.)
• Look for leaks or drips after 5 minutes of running
• Record the date and mileage in your service log
• Recycle or properly dispose of any old parts/fluids

🔗 Related Guides

❓ Frequently Asked Questions