Your Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts on a 1995-2002 Chrysler Neon
Stop the shaking and clunking noises by understanding and replacing your Neon's worn-out engine mounts.
- Your Neon has four mounts; two main mounts and two 'dog bone' torque struts which often fail first and are easy to replace.
- Symptoms almost always include heavy vibration at idle and loud clunking noises when shifting.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are budget-friendly but may not last as long as original OEM parts.
- Replacing the main mounts requires safely supporting the engine with a jack.
Is Your Neon Shaking and Making Noise?
If your 1995-2002 Chrysler Neon vibrates excessively at idle or makes a loud clunk when you shift gears, you likely have a bad engine mount. These are very common wear items on first and second-generation Neons. The rubber in the mounts dries out, cracks, and eventually fails completely, allowing the engine to move and shake freely. This guide will help you understand the symptoms, choose the right aftermarket parts, and know what to expect from the replacement job.
Symptoms of a Failing Neon Engine Mount
- Heavy Vibration: The most common sign is a strong vibration felt in the steering wheel, floor, and seats. It's often worst when the car is stopped at a light and in gear.
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: You may hear a loud 'clunk' or 'thud' from the engine bay when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift from drive to reverse. This is the sound of the engine moving and hitting other parts.
- Visible Engine Movement: Open the hood and have a friend safely put the car in drive and then reverse while holding the brake. If you see the engine rock or lurch more than an inch or two, 🎬 Watch: How to identify and locate a bad engine mount. one or more mounts have failed.
Don't Ignore a Bad Mount
Driving with a completely failed engine mount can put extra stress on the remaining good mounts, causing them to fail faster. It can also damage other components like exhaust pipes, hoses, and wiring harnesses as the engine moves around excessively.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mounts for Your Neon
For a car as old as the 1995-2002 Neon, OEM Mopar mounts can be expensive or discontinued. Aftermarket parts are the most common and practical choice. The available brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar fall into the economy category.
Brand Quality: Economy Tier
Brands: Anchor, DEA (Products), Westar, Pioneer
These brands offer a low-cost solution to fix your immediate problem. Forum discussions show mixed real-world results; some owners report they fail much faster than the original parts, while others find them acceptable for the price on an older vehicle. They are a budget-friendly choice that will stop the vibration, but may not last as long as the original factory mounts. Given the price range of $14.84 to $42.88, they are often the most sensible option for keeping a Neon on the road.
Pro Tip: Polyurethane Inserts
Some Neon owners buy cheap aftermarket mounts and press in stiffer polyurethane (poly) bushings before installation. This can make the mount more durable and provide a firmer feel, though it may also transfer slightly more vibration into the cabin. This is a popular modification for those looking for better longevity than stock aftermarket rubber provides.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Neon Engine Mounts?
The cost depends on how many mounts you replace and whether you do the work yourself. The upper and lower torque struts are much easier and cheaper to replace than the main side mounts.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Engine Mount (Single) | $14.84 - $42.88 |
| Shop Labor (Torque Strut Only) | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (Main Engine or Trans Mount) | $150 - $300 |
| Shop Labor (All Four Mounts) | $300 - $550+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many engine mounts does a 1995-2002 Neon have?
There are four total: a right-side engine mount, a left-side transmission mount, an upper torque strut (or 'dog bone'), and a lower torque strut.
Can I replace just one bad mount?
Yes, you can replace only the failed mount. However, mounts tend to wear out at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing them all at once can save you from having to do the job again in the near future.
Which mount fails most often on the Neon?
The upper and lower torque struts and the right-side (passenger) engine mount 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to installing the upper right motor mount. are common failure points. The torque struts are easy to inspect and replace, so they are a good place to start your diagnosis.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing upper and lower torque struts.Is it hard to replace Neon engine mounts myself?
The difficulty varies. The upper and lower torque struts are very easy and can be replaced with basic hand tools in under an hour. The main engine and transmission mounts are more difficult, requiring you to support the engine with a floor jack and remove other parts like the battery tray or air filter housing to get access. It is a feasible DIY job for someone with some mechanical experience.
Are there any recalls for Chrysler Neon engine mounts?
No, there have been no specific recalls issued by Chrysler or the NHTSA for engine mount failure on the 1995-2002 Neon. Failures are considered normal wear and tear.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
System consists of a right engine mount, left transmission mount, upper torque strut, and lower torque strut. Mounts are typically solid rubber construction from the factory.
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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.
- Chrysler Neon:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Neon Shaking and Making Noise?
- Symptoms of a Failing Neon Engine Mount
- Don't Ignore a Bad Mount
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mounts for Your Neon
- Brand Quality: Economy Tier
- Pro Tip: Polyurethane Inserts
- How Much Does It Cost to Replace Neon Engine Mounts?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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