A Mechanic's Guide to 2008-2015 Volvo XC90 Engine Mounts
Stop the shaking and clunking noises by choosing the right replacement engine mount for your XC90.
- Symptoms of a bad engine mount include vibration, clunking noises, and engine movement.
- Owners of 2008 V8 models should verify if the engine mount bolt recall (Volvo #197) was performed.
- Economy brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are cheap but may increase vibration and wear out faster.
- For a smooth, factory ride, choosing Genuine Volvo or an OEM-supplier brand is the best option.
Is Your XC90's Engine Mount Failing?
When an engine mount fails on the 2008-2015 Volvo XC90, the symptoms are hard to ignore. Because these parts are designed to absorb vibration, their failure results in a much rougher driving experience. Most owners start noticing issues between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Ignoring a bad mount can put extra stress on the remaining mounts, as well as other components like hoses and exhaust parts.
Common Symptoms:
- Excessive Vibration: A noticeable increase in vibration felt in the steering wheel, floor, or seats, especially when the car is idling at a stoplight.
- Loud Noises: Clunking, thumping, or banging sounds coming from the engine bay. These noises are often most obvious when you shift from Park to Drive, accelerate, or brake.
- Engine Movement: You might feel a jolt when accelerating or shifting gears. 🎬 Watch: How bad mounts cause hard shifts and how to fix them. In severe cases, you may even see the engine move or shift under the hood if someone revs the engine while you watch.
Recall Notice for 2008 V8 Models
There was a safety recall for a small number of 2008 Volvo XC90 models equipped with the V8 engine. These vehicles may have been built with incorrect engine mount bolts that were too long, preventing proper clamping force. This could cause the engine mount bracket to break, leading to engine stalling. 🎬 See how to replace the front motor mount on V8 models. If you own a 2008 V8 model, it is critical to check with a Volvo dealer or use the NHTSA website to see if your vehicle was affected and if the recall work was completed. The Volvo recall number is 197.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
When shopping for a new aftermarket engine mount, you'll find a wide range of prices and brands. For a vehicle like the XC90, known for its smooth ride, the quality of the mount makes a significant difference. Aftermarket brands can be grouped into a few tiers.
Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar, Professional Parts Sweden)
These brands offer the lowest prices, making them a tempting option. They are functional replacements designed to fit your vehicle. However, forum discussions among Volvo owners and mechanics often contain complaints about these brands. The most common issues are that they are made from harder rubber compounds that don't absorb vibration as well as the original parts, leading to a rougher idle. Some owners also report that these mounts fail much sooner than OEM parts. Professional Parts Sweden, despite its name, is also generally considered a lower-quality aftermarket brand to be avoided by many enthusiasts.
Pro Tip: If your budget is tight, an economy brand mount is better than a completely broken one. However, be prepared for a potential increase in cabin vibration and a shorter lifespan compared to a premium part.
OEM and Premium Aftermarket Brands (Genuine Volvo)
"Genuine Volvo" parts are what the car was built with. They offer the best fit, performance, and vibration damping, but they are also the most expensive option. Some aftermarket brands, like Hutchinson, are known to be the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Volvo, meaning they make the part for Volvo. These OEM parts often provide the same quality as Genuine parts without the dealer markup. While not on the provided list, they are worth seeking out. Among the choices given, "Genuine" is the top-tier option that guarantees factory performance.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace an engine mount on your XC90 can vary. If you have a shop perform the work, you can expect to pay for the part plus labor. It's important to note that your XC90 has multiple engine mounts, and replacing them all can be costly. A quote that requires removing the entire engine is incorrect; the job can be done by supporting the engine from below.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Engine Mount (Part Only) | $71.33 - $299.85 |
| Shop Labor (Per Mount) | $139 - $204 |
| Estimated Total (Shop Installed, 1 Mount) | $210 - $504 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many engine mounts does my 2008-2015 XC90 have?
The exact number can vary by engine. For example, the 3.2L inline-six engine uses a system of up to six mounts and torque rods to secure the powertrain. The V8 models have a different configuration. It's common for one mount to fail first, putting stress on the others.
Can I replace just the one broken mount?
Yes, you can replace only the failed mount. However, engine mounts tend to wear out at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely nearing the end of their service life. If your budget allows, it's often a good idea to replace them in sets (e.g., all the main load-bearing mounts) to save on future labor costs.
Is replacing an XC90 engine mount a DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, yes. The job requires safely supporting the engine with a floor jack and a block of wood to take the load off the mount before unbolting it. Access can be tight, especially for the rear mount. If you are not comfortable working under a supported engine, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
Will a new aftermarket mount feel different than the original?
It depends on the brand. A high-quality OEM brand like Genuine should restore the original smooth feel. Cheaper, economy brands like Anchor, DEA, or Westar may use a harder rubber that transmits more engine vibration into the cabin, especially at idle. Many owners who choose budget brands notice a difference in comfort.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Mounts for the 2008-2015 XC90 can be standard rubber, hydraulic, or vacuum-operated, depending on the specific mount's location and the vehicle's engine (3.2L I6 or 4.4L V8). The upper mount is often a torque strut, designed to control engine rocking.
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.
- Volvo XC90:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your XC90's Engine Mount Failing?
- Common Symptoms:
- Recall Notice for 2008 V8 Models
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
- Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar, Professional Parts Sweden)
- OEM and Premium Aftermarket Brands (Genuine Volvo)
- Replacement Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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