Transmission Mount Replacement in Glendale, AZ

Sun West Transmissions — Glendale, AZ. Free estimates, honest diagnosis and a 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty on qualifying rebuilds and replacements.

What Transmission Mounts Do

The engine and transmission are bolted together and held in the vehicle by a set of mounts. The transmission mount, sometimes called the rear mount on rear-wheel-drive vehicles, supports the back of the drivetrain and connects it to a crossmember. On front-wheel-drive vehicles, one or more mounts and torque struts hold the transaxle and control its rocking motion.

Mounts are made of rubber or fluid-filled rubber bonded to metal brackets. They absorb vibration and allow a small, controlled amount of movement. When the rubber cracks, separates or collapses, the drivetrain moves too much, and you feel it. Transmission mount replacement in Glendale, AZ restores that control and protects nearby parts from damage.

Symptoms of a Worn Transmission Mount

• Clunk when shifting into Drive or Reverse, or when accelerating and letting off the throttle
• Excess vibration felt in the floor, seats or shifter, especially at idle in gear
• Visible drivetrain movement when someone briefly applies throttle with the brakes held
• Driveline vibration on rear-wheel-drive trucks due to changed driveshaft angles
• Shift linkage problems when movement stretches or binds the cable
• Rear seal leaks caused by excessive movement of the output shaft and yoke

Some of these symptoms overlap with worn U-joints, a bad CV axle, or internal transmission problems. We check the whole drivetrain so the right part gets replaced.

Why Mounts Wear Out Faster Here

Rubber does not love heat. In the Phoenix area, mounts that sit near exhaust components or a hot transmission case dry out and crack over time. Fluid leaks from the engine or transmission can soften and swell rubber mounts, causing them to tear. Heavy towing, hard launches and rough roads add stress. Fluid-filled hydraulic mounts can also leak, losing their damping ability.

How We Inspect Mounts

1. Visual inspection on a lift for cracks, separation, collapsed rubber and fluid leakage from hydraulic mounts.
2. Load test, with the engine running and brakes firmly applied, briefly shifting between Drive and Reverse to watch drivetrain movement. This is done carefully by a technician, not something drivers should try at home.
3. Pry inspection to check for looseness between the rubber and metal.
4. Check related parts such as crossmembers, torque struts, engine mounts and exhaust hangers.

Replace One Mount or All of Them?

Mounts share the load. When one fails, the others work harder. If an engine mount is cracked along with the transmission mount, replacing both at the same time often gives the best result and avoids repeat labor. On front-wheel-drive vehicles, the transmission-side mount and the torque strut often wear together. We will show you what we find and let you decide.

Quality of Replacement Parts Matters

Mount quality varies a great deal. Very cheap mounts can transmit more vibration or fail early, and polyurethane performance mounts reduce movement but can transmit noticeably more vibration into the cabin. For most daily drivers and work trucks, a quality replacement that matches the original design is the right choice. For performance or heavy-duty builds, we can discuss stiffer options, especially when paired with performance transmission builds.

Mounts and Transmission Health

A failed mount is not just a comfort problem. Excessive movement can strain cooler lines, wiring harnesses, the shift cable and the output seal. On rear-wheel-drive trucks, it can change driveshaft angles and wear U-joints faster. If the drivetrain is moving enough to make the exhaust hit the body, it can also damage hangers and pipes. Replacing a mount early helps avoid a chain of other repairs.

If a clunk is coming from inside the transmission rather than from the mounts, our diagnostic testing can find the cause. Harsh engagement can be a sign of valve body or pressure control problems.

Combine With Other Work

Mounts are often replaced as part of larger jobs. When a transmission is removed for a rebuild or clutch replacement, it is a convenient time to replace a worn mount. We will point it out if we see wear during other work.

Transmission Mount FAQ

Can I drive with a bad transmission mount?

For a short time, usually, but it will get worse and can damage other parts. If the drivetrain is moving severely or something is hitting, have it checked right away.

Is a clunk always the mount?

No. U-joints, CV axles, differential play, loose suspension parts or internal transmission issues can all clunk. We find the actual source.

How much does transmission mount replacement cost?

It depends on the vehicle, mount design and access. Call (623) 473-9800 for a free quote.