Dodge Stratus Automatic Transmission Mount: A Guide for 1995-2006 Models
If your Stratus is vibrating at stoplights or clunking into gear, a bad transmission mount is a likely culprit.
- The main signs of a bad transmission mount are heavy vibration at idle and a clunking noise when shifting gears.
- Original Mopar parts may be discontinued, making aftermarket brands the most likely option for replacement.
- Pioneer is a well-regarded aftermarket brand, while Anchor, DEA, and Westar are common economy choices.
- It is generally safe to drive for a short distance, but a completely failed mount can lead to damage of other components.
Is Your Stratus Shaking or Clunking?
A failing automatic transmission mount on a Dodge Stratus makes itself known in a few obvious ways. The rubber in the mount wears out, cracks, or gets soaked with leaking fluids, causing it to fail. When it does, you will likely experience one or more of these symptoms:
- Excessive Vibration: This is the most common sign. You'll feel a strong vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or the whole car, especially when idling at a stoplight with the car in Drive. The vibration often lessens or goes away when you shift into Neutral or Park.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: You may hear a loud clunk, bang, or thud when you shift from Park into Reverse or Drive. This sound is the transmission moving excessively and hitting the subframe because the mount is no longer holding it tightly. You might also hear this noise during hard acceleration or braking.
- Excessive Engine Movement: If you have a helper, you can check for this. With the parking brake on and the car in gear, have them lightly press the accelerator while you watch the engine. If the engine and transmission assembly rocks or jerks significantly, the mounts are likely worn out.
A Note on Stratus Generations
This guide covers the Dodge Stratus sedan. The 2001-2005 Stratus Coupe is a different vehicle based on a Mitsubishi platform and uses different parts. Always verify the part fits your specific model (sedan or coupe) before ordering.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Transmission Mount
Finding an original Mopar transmission mount for a 1995-2006 Stratus can be difficult, as many have been discontinued. This means most owners will be choosing from aftermarket brands. Quality can vary, so it's important to know the players.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Dodge Stratus
- Good Quality Aftermarket (Recommended): Brands like Pioneer have a good reputation in owner forums for being a solid alternative to OEM. They often have good fitment and durability that should last for the remaining life of the vehicle.
- Economy Aftermarket: Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are widely available and very affordable. They are a functional choice if budget is your main concern. Some mechanics find them to be a decent value, while others report they may not last as long or absorb vibrations as well as higher-quality options. One direct comparison found an Anchor mount to have better construction than a Westar part for a similar application.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
Your Stratus has three or four powertrain mounts in total (engine and transmission). If one has failed from age, the others are likely worn as well. Replacing a single failed mount with a new, stiff one can put extra stress on the remaining old, soft mounts, causing them to fail sooner. For the best and longest-lasting repair, consider replacing all the mounts at the same time.
Typical Replacement Costs
The cost for a new aftermarket automatic transmission mount is budget-friendly. The labor is also relatively low, as it's a straightforward job for most mechanics.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $15 - $95 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $115 - $295 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the Stratus transmission mount?
No, there have been no recalls issued by the NHTSA for the automatic transmission mounts on the 1995-2006 Dodge Stratus.
How many transmission mounts does my Stratus have?
Most Stratus models have a total of three or four mounts that support the engine and transmission. This usually includes one or two dedicated transmission mounts, plus engine mounts that also share the load.
Will a new mount fix all of my car's vibrations?
If the vibration is worst at idle and in gear, and you also hear clunking, a new mount will likely fix it. However, vibrations can also be caused by other issues like a misfiring engine, unbalanced tires, or a bad CV axle. If the new mount doesn't solve the problem, further diagnosis is needed.
Can I replace the transmission mount myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with basic mechanical skills and tools. The key is to safely support the weight of the transmission with a floor jack and a block of wood before unbolting the old mount. The entire process typically takes 1-2 hours.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4612145 4764333AB
The Dodge Stratus uses several mounts to secure the powertrain. The automatic transmission mount is typically located on the driver's side of the engine bay, connecting the transaxle to the frame rail. Common aftermarket part numbers include Anchor 2842 and Westar EM-2842. Some mounts are solid rubber while others may be hydraulic (fluid-filled) for better vibration damping.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Dodge Stratus: