Ford Taurus Automatic Transmission Mount Guide: 2001-2009
Stop the clunks, shakes, and vibrations when you shift or accelerate your Ford Taurus.
- First, confirm your vehicle's generation: 2001-2007 and 2008-2009 models use completely different parts.
- Symptoms of failure include clunking noises when shifting and excessive vibration at idle.
- Economy aftermarket brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar) are affordable but may increase vibration and have a shorter lifespan than OEM.
- Driving with a failed mount is possible, but it should be repaired soon to prevent damage to other components like exhaust pipes or axles.
A Critical Note for All 2001-2009 Taurus Owners
Two Different Cars, Two Different Parts
The Ford Taurus name was used on two completely different vehicles in this period. It is critical to know which one you own before ordering parts.
- 2001-2007 Ford Taurus: This is the fourth-generation, classic oval-shaped Taurus. Its transmission mounts are unique to this platform.
- 2008-2009 Ford Taurus: This is a completely different car, a renamed and updated version of the Ford Five Hundred. It is larger and uses different engine, transmission, and frame components. Its mounts are not interchangeable with the earlier models.
Always verify your vehicle's year before purchasing a transmission mount to avoid ordering the wrong part.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
When a transmission mount wears out, the rubber cracks or collapses, and the transmission can move around too much. This leads to several noticeable problems:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: A loud clunk when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse is a classic sign. You may also hear thuds during hard acceleration or braking. This is the sound of the transmission assembly hitting the frame. 🎬 Watch: See these symptoms in action and learn diagnosis tips.
- Excessive Vibration: You might feel a strong vibration through the floor, seats, or steering wheel, especially when the car is idling in gear. This vibration often gets worse as you accelerate.
- Engine Movement: A failed mount will allow the entire engine and transmission assembly to move excessively. A mechanic can often spot this by watching the engine while shifting between Drive and Reverse with the brakes held firmly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For the 2001-2009 Taurus, you have several aftermarket options. The original Ford mounts were designed for a quiet, smooth ride, and some were fluid-filled (hydraulic) to achieve this. Aftermarket parts are more budget-friendly, but quality and performance can vary.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These brands offer the most affordable replacements. They are a practical choice for a budget-conscious repair. However, some owners in forums report that these mounts can use harder rubber, which may transmit more vibration into the cabin compared to the original part. There are also occasional reports of fitment issues or a shorter lifespan compared to OEM.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands (Pioneer, etc.): Some aftermarket brands aim to more closely match the original part's performance. One forum user suggested Pioneer mounts were visually and qualitatively closer to the factory parts. If your original mount was hydraulic, look for an aftermarket replacement that also specifies it is hydraulic to maintain a smoother ride.
Pro Tip: When one mount fails, it puts extra stress on the others. It's a good idea to inspect all your engine and transmission mounts at the same time. If others show cracks or signs of collapse, consider replacing them as a set to save on future labor costs.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $27 - $77 |
| New OEM (Dealer) Mount | $75 - $150+ |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $350 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $150 - $430 |
Note: Labor costs vary by location and the specific mount being replaced. Some mounts on the 2001-2007 Taurus are very difficult to access and may result in higher labor charges. 🎬 Watch: A walkthrough of the difficult driver's side mount replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a DIY job to replace a Taurus transmission mount?
It depends on your skill and which Taurus you have. For the 2008-2009 Taurus, the main transmission mount is under the battery tray, which is a manageable job for a skilled DIYer with a good toolset. For the 2001-2007 Taurus, the job can be much harder. The driver's side mount is in a very tight space, and some mechanics report needing to lower the subframe to get enough clearance, making it a difficult job without a vehicle lift and proper equipment.
🎬 See how to replace the transmission mount on earlier models.Can I just replace the one broken mount?
Yes, you can replace only the single failed mount. However, all the mounts on your car have the same age and have been under the same stress. A new, stiff mount will put more pressure on the remaining old, worn mounts, which may cause them to fail sooner. It is best practice to replace them in a set if possible.
What's the difference between a solid rubber and a hydraulic mount?
A solid rubber mount uses a block of dense rubber to absorb vibrations. A hydraulic mount is also made of rubber but is filled with fluid. This fluid provides superior dampening for a smoother, quieter ride. If your Taurus came with hydraulic mounts, replacing them with a solid rubber aftermarket part may result in a noticeable increase in cabin vibration.
Are there any recalls for the Taurus transmission mount?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not find any recalls specifically for the automatic transmission mounts on the 2001-2009 Ford Taurus.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8G1Z-6068-A 8G1Z-6038-A 8G1Z-6038-C YF1Z-6068-AA
The 2001-2009 Ford Taurus uses a combination of engine and transmission mounts to secure the powertrain. There are critical differences between the 2001-2007 (D186 platform) and 2008-2009 (D3 platform) models. The left-side mount is typically considered the transmission mount. Some original mounts are hydraulic (fluid-filled) to dampen vibration. Aftermarket replacements are available in both hydraulic and solid rubber configurations.
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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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