2020-2025 Toyota & Lexus 2.5L Hybrid Engine Mounts: Crown, RX350h, Highlander, RAV4 & Venza

Vehicle and Engine Compatibility: The 2.5L Hybrid Rule

This compatibility information is crucial for the Toyota Crown and Lexus RX, which offer both engine options. Here is a breakdown of the vehicles covered by this guide:

• 2023-2025 Toyota Crown: Fits XLE and Limited trims with the 2.5L Hybrid. Does NOT fit the Platinum trim with the 2.4L Turbo Hybrid MAX.
• 2023-2025 Lexus RX350h: Fits the RX350h model with the 2.5L Hybrid. Does NOT fit the RX500h, which uses the 2.4L Turbo Hybrid MAX.
• 2020-2024 Toyota Highlander: Fits all Hybrid models, which use the 2.5L engine.
• 2021-2025 Toyota RAV4: Fits all Hybrid and Prime (PHEV) models, which use the 2.5L engine system.
• 2021-2024 Toyota Venza: All Venza models from this period use the 2.5L Hybrid engine.

Symptoms of a Failing Engine Mount

Because these vehicles are relatively new, widespread age-related mount failure is uncommon. However, defects or damage can still occur. The signs of a bad engine mount are often noticeable from the driver's seat.

• Excessive Vibration: This is the most common symptom. You may feel a new or stronger vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or seats, especially when the vehicle is idling in gear.
• Clunking or Banging Noises: Loud clunks, bangs, or thumps from the engine bay are a serious sign. This noise is most obvious when you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse, or during acceleration and deceleration. It's the sound of the engine moving excessively and hitting other components.
• Visible Engine Movement: A healthy engine should have very little movement. If you have a helper put the car in gear and lightly press the accelerator while you watch the engine (with the hood open and from a safe distance), you should not see it lurch or rock significantly. Excessive movement indicates a failed mount.
• A Rougher Ride: A general sense that the ride is bumpier or harsher than it used to be can sometimes be traced back to worn mounts that are no longer damping engine vibrations effectively.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Toyota or Lexus for premature engine mount failure on these specific models. The original equipment mounts are generally considered durable.

However, it's important not to misdiagnose other known issues as a bad engine mount. Some of these vehicles have TSBs for other conditions that can cause noise or vibration:

• 2020-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: A TSB was issued for an engine noise during acceleration between 0-45 mph, which is not related to the mounts.
• 2021-2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Some models may experience a growl or humming noise from the hybrid transaxle. Additionally, these models are part of a customer support program for potential corrosion on the high-voltage cable to the rear motor, a condition sometimes referred to as "Cablegate."

Diagnosing the source of a noise or vibration correctly is key. A failed mount is about excessive movement and impact, while other issues may present as a more constant hum or drone.

Buying a Used Engine Mount: What to Inspect

Purchasing a used OEM engine mount is an excellent way to save money without sacrificing quality, as factory parts often use higher-grade materials than inexpensive aftermarket alternatives. However, a thorough inspection is critical.

1. Inspect the Rubber Thoroughly: The rubber is the most important part. Look for any signs of cracking, tearing, or splitting. Pay close attention to the areas where the rubber bonds to the metal brackets. Any separation here means the mount is failing.
2. Check for Leaks (Hydraulic Mounts): Many modern engine mounts are hydraulic, meaning they are filled with a special fluid to help dampen vibrations. Look for any dark, oily residue on the outside of the mount. A leaking mount has failed and will not perform correctly.
3. Look for Compression or Stretching: Compare the used mount to photos of a new one if possible. A failed mount may look compressed, collapsed, or stretched out of shape from bearing the engine's weight improperly.
4. Verify Part Numbers: Given the critical engine differences, double-check that the part number on the used mount matches one of the known OEM numbers for the 2.5L Hybrid engine.

Replacement Difficulty and Overview

• Difficulty Rating: 3-5 out of 5 (Varies significantly by mount location)
• DIY Feasible: For accessible mounts (Yes), for difficult mounts (Not Recommended)

Replacing an engine mount can range from straightforward to very difficult depending on which mount has failed. The top mount, often called a torque strut or "dog bone," is typically the easiest. The front and passenger-side mounts are often accessible after removing a wheel and splash shield. However, the rear mount or transmission-side mounts can be much more challenging, sometimes requiring the subframe to be lowered for access.

The high labor cost quoted for the Toyota Highlander suggests at least one of its mounts is in a particularly difficult-to-reach location.

General Replacement Steps:

1. Support the Engine: Place a floor jack with a block of wood under the engine's oil pan or the transmission to support its weight. This is the most critical step to prevent damage.
2. Gain Access: This may involve removing plastic engine covers, air intake boxes, wheels, and inner fender liners (splash shields).
3. Unbolt the Old Mount: First, remove the bolts connecting the mount to the vehicle's frame. Then, remove the bolts connecting it to the engine bracket. You may need to slightly raise or lower the engine with the jack to relieve tension on the bolts.
4. Install the New Mount: Maneuver the new mount into position. Loosely thread all bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment before tightening.
5. Torque to Spec: Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting. Once all bolts are tight, you can remove the floor jack supporting the engine.
6. Reassemble: Reinstall all components that were removed for access.

Cost Comparison

The cost to replace an engine mount varies significantly based on the vehicle and which mount is being replaced. The Toyota Highlander is notably more expensive due to higher labor times for at least one of the mounts.

Frequently Asked Questions