Guide to the Automatic Transmission Mount for 1990-1995 Dodge Caravan
Eliminate clunking noises and vibrations by understanding and replacing your van's transmission mount.
- A loud clunk when shifting into gear is the most common sign of a failed transmission mount on your Caravan.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are affordable but are considered economy-grade and may not last as long as the original part.
- If one mount has failed, it's wise to inspect all other engine and transmission mounts as they are likely worn and under extra stress.
- This is a very feasible DIY repair for most home mechanics with basic tools and can be completed in under two hours.
Is Your Caravan Making a Clunking Noise?
A worn-out automatic transmission mount is a common issue on older vehicles like the second-generation Dodge Caravan. Over time, the rubber inside the mount can crack, harden, or become saturated with leaking fluids like oil. When this happens, it can no longer support the transmission correctly. This allows the transmission to move excessively, which leads to the noises and vibrations you may be experiencing. Ignoring a failed mount can put extra stress on other expensive parts, including the engine mounts, axles, and exhaust system.
Symptoms of a Bad Transmission Mount
If your transmission mount is failing, you will likely notice one or more of these signs:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: The most frequent symptom is a loud "clunk" or "bang" when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. You might also hear this noise during hard acceleration or braking as the transmission's weight shifts abruptly.
- Excessive Vibrations: You may feel new or stronger vibrations through the floor, seats, or steering wheel, especially when stopped at a light with the van in gear. This occurs because the failed mount can no longer absorb the normal vibrations from the powertrain.
- Rough or Delayed Shifting: In some cases, a bad mount can cause the transmission to be misaligned with the engine, which may lead to jerky or hard shifts.
- Visible Engine and Transmission Movement: A simple way to check for a bad mount is to watch the engine assembly. Have a helper hold the brake pedal down firmly and shift the van between Drive and Reverse. If you see the engine and transmission lurch or rock more than an inch, a mount has likely failed.
Known Issue for 1992 Models
A recall was issued for some 1992 Dodge Caravan models (NHTSA #97V079) related to the transmission mounting area. The issue involved a hole in the transmission mounting boss being drilled too deep, which could affect the parking brake linkage. While this is not a failure of the mount itself, it is a known issue with the mounting point on the transmission for that specific year.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For a vehicle of this age, finding an original Mopar transmission mount can be difficult. The most practical and affordable solution is a new aftermarket part. The commonly available brands—Anchor, DEA, and Westar—are all considered economy-grade replacements.
Forum discussions and reviews from mechanics show mixed results for these brands. Some users find they work well for years, while others report that they don't last as long as the original part or may have slight fitment issues. These aftermarket mounts are typically made of a harder solid rubber, which is durable but may transmit more vibration into the cabin compared to the original factory mounts. Despite this, they are a reasonable choice for an older daily driver and will successfully eliminate the loud clunking from a completely failed mount.
Pro Tip: Since all the readily available aftermarket brands are in a similar quality tier, your choice can be based on price and availability. It is also highly recommended to inspect your engine mounts at the same time. If one mount has failed, the others are likely the same age and have been under extra stress.
Cost to Replace an Automatic Transmission Mount
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $16 - $22 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many mounts does my Caravan have?
Most 1990-1995 Caravans have three or four mounts that secure the engine and transmission. This typically includes a front mount, a rear transmission mount, and one or two side mounts. It's important to identify which one has failed.
Can I replace just the one broken mount?
Yes, you can replace only the mount that has clearly failed. However, keep in mind that a single broken mount puts a lot of extra strain on the remaining mounts, which can cause them to fail sooner. For a long-lasting repair, it's best to replace them as a set.
What happens if I don't replace a bad mount?
Continuing to drive with a failed mount can cause damage to other components. The excessive movement can stress and break hoses, wiring, CV joints, and exhaust parts, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Is this a difficult DIY job?
For a home mechanic with basic tools, replacing the transmission mount is very manageable. The process involves supporting the transmission with a jack and a block of wood, removing the old mount, and bolting the new one in place. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step video guide for replacing your transmission mount. It typically takes about one to two hours.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4348954 4531633 4641496 4573766 4573770
The 1990-1995 Dodge Caravan uses several mounts to secure the engine and transaxle. The automatic transmission mount is typically a non-hydraulic design, consisting of a metal bracket and a solid rubber block to absorb vibration. The specific mount needed can vary based on the engine (2.5L, 3.0L, or 3.3L).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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