Engine mount question

[Alice S. Fuzzybutt]

Two years ago I had my engine mounts replaced. I think I've driven about 5k miles since that.

Yesterday my husband brought the car to a mechanic for a second opinion on a leaky gasket (without telling them what to look for). Sure enough, the mechanic found and charged us much less than the other mechanic would have. He also had a couple of other things done that really needed to be done. Long story short, we're pleased with the service and what we were charged.

I noticed on the bill that the mechanic commented we needed our engine mounts replaced. I knew they needed to be replaced two years ago because whenever I put the car in gear the whole engine block would move up and down (affecting my steering, exhaust system and caused the belts to squeak from all the moving). Our belts squeak like a mofo now and the steering wheel is getting stiff to move.

How long are mounts supposed to last? I've driven about 5k miles in the last two years. We drive mostly in JC where the roads are riddled with potholes. Could that affect the mounts? I'm kinda pissed I may have to replace them again.

[Snoogans]

do you have a heated parking area? The only thing I can think of is you get salt and water on them and then park in a heated garage or some sort and it allows it to rust. otherwise, you should never have to change them.

I have a 99 Jetta and they have never been changed

[Alice S. Fuzzybutt]

Nope no heated parking area; just the street.

Oh-- and I have a 2000 Hyundai Elantra.

[landarch]

Stiff steering and squeaky belt together sounds like the power steering pump. Engine mounts are not usually regularly serviced items, but they do break. 5000 miles is much too soon for them to break normally. However, if your mechanic used inferior Made in China parts from Auto Zone or Advance, 5000 urban miles could be about right. If the car has been wrecked before there could be changes in the geometry underneath that cause undue stress on the mounts, shortening their lifespan.

[instrument]

motor mounts on a stock nonmodified vehicle should outlive you.

is it a common problem for your make/model?

some companied make poly "drop ins" that supplement the stock motor mounts, maybe you should check into them.

if its a rust issue if you replace them again just keep them lubricated, but im guessing its the rubber inserts.

[Chigworthy]

motor mounts on a stock nonmodified vehicle should outlive you.

is it a common problem for your make/model?

some companied make poly "drop ins" that supplement the stock motor mounts, maybe you should check into them.

if its a rust issue if you replace them again just keep them lubricated, but im guessing its the rubber inserts.

Get the poly mounts if you replace them again.