A Guide to the Automatic Transmission Mount for the 2002-2007 Honda CR-V
If your CR-V clunks when you shift into gear or vibrates at idle, your transmission mount might be the culprit.
- A loud clunk when shifting into gear is the most definitive symptom of a failed transmission mount on this CR-V.
- For best results and a vibration-free ride, using a genuine Honda (OEM) or a premium aftermarket brand like Beck Arnley is highly recommended.
- This is a straightforward DIY replacement that can be done in under two hours with basic tools, saving hundreds in labor costs.
- Always use a jack with a block of wood to support the transmission before unbolting the old mount.
Is Your CR-V's Transmission Mount Failing?
The automatic transmission mount is a common wear item on the second-generation Honda CR-V. The rubber block inside the mount cracks, collapses, and separates over time, leading to symptoms that are hard to ignore. Identifying a bad mount early can prevent stress on other drivetrain parts like axles and exhaust connections.
Top 3 Failure Symptoms
- Clunking or Banging Noises: The most common sign is a loud "clunk" or "bang" when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. This is the sound of the transmission lurching and hitting the frame because the mount is no longer holding it securely.
- Excessive Vibration: You may feel a noticeable vibration through the driver's side floor, the steering wheel, or the entire cabin. This is often worse when idling in gear or during acceleration, as the worn rubber can't absorb the engine's vibrations.
- Drivetrain Movement: With the help of a friend, you can test for this. With the hood open and the parking brake set firmly, have someone put their foot on the brake, shift into Drive, and lightly press the gas. If you see the engine and transmission assembly lurch or jump significantly, 🎬 Watch: How to check your transmission and motor mounts the mount is likely bad.
Pro Tip: The transmission mount is located on the driver's side of the engine bay, underneath the air filter box. A visual inspection may reveal cracks in the rubber or evidence that the center bolt has dropped, indicating a collapsed mount.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
When shopping for a new transmission mount, you have a few options. The choice between them often comes down to budget versus ride quality and longevity.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): A genuine Honda mount (Part #50805-S9A-983 or its replacement #50805-SJF-981) will provide the best fit, vibration damping, and longest service life. It's the most expensive option but guarantees factory ride quality. Many long-time owners recommend sticking with OEM for this specific part to avoid vibration issues.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Beck Arnley): Brands like Beck Arnley are known for sourcing parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are an excellent alternative to the dealer part, often providing similar quality at a slightly lower price.
- Standard / Budget Aftermarket (e.g., Anchor, DEA, Westar): These brands offer the most affordable solution and are widely available. However, be aware that their rubber compounds can sometimes be harder than the original, which may lead to a noticeable increase in cabin vibration right after installation. While they will secure your transmission properly, they may not last as long or provide the same smooth feel as an OEM or premium part.
Warning: Avoid extremely cheap, unbranded mount kits. Forum users and mechanics frequently report that these parts can fail in less than a year or cause significant vibration issues immediately after installation.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace the automatic transmission mount depends on the part you choose and whether you do the work yourself.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part | $130 - $200 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $42 - $86 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $192 - $450 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it difficult to replace the CR-V transmission mount myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job for someone with basic tools and experience. The process involves supporting the transmission with a floor jack, removing the air filter box for access, and unbolting the old mount to install the new one. The entire job can typically be done in 1-2 hours.
🎬 See this step-by-step transmission mount replacement walkthroughWhat tools are needed for the replacement?
You will need a floor jack, a block of wood, a ratchet with extensions, and 10mm and 17mm sockets. A torque wrench is also highly recommended to tighten the bolts to the correct specification, which is 40 ft-lbs for the main mounting bolts.
Are there any recalls on this part?
There are no recalls for the transmission mount itself. However, there was a recall for the 2002-2003 CR-V concerning the transmission *shift cable*, which could corrode and make it difficult to shift into Park. This is a separate issue from the mount failing.
Should I replace other mounts at the same time?
If your CR-V has high mileage, it's a good idea to inspect the other engine mounts when you replace the transmission mount. There are four main mounts in total. If others show signs of cracking or collapse, replacing them as a set can restore the vehicle's smoothness and prevent future failures.
🎬 Watch: Replacing the transmission and front mounts togetherHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 50805-S9A-983 50805-SJF-981
The mount is located on the driver's side of the vehicle, under the air intake box. It consists of a metal housing and a solid rubber core. All primary mounting bolts (mount-to-body and bracket-to-transmission) should be torqued to 40 ft-lbs.
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.
- Honda CR-V: