A Guide to the 2009-2016 Chevrolet Camaro Automatic Transmission Mount
If you're feeling clunks, bangs, or vibrations, the transmission mount on your Camaro might be the culprit.
- Loud clunks during acceleration and new vibrations are the most common symptoms of a bad mount.
- For a daily driver, avoid the cheapest economy brands (like Anchor and DEA) as they often fail quickly and cause more vibration.
- Replacing the mount is a simple job that can prevent more costly damage to other drivetrain parts.
- For 2016 models, a vibration could also be related to a known torque converter issue, not just the mount.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
A transmission mount wears out over time as the rubber breaks down. When it fails, the symptoms are usually easy to notice. You don't need to be a mechanic to tell something is wrong.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. You may hear a loud clunk or bang from under the car when you accelerate hard, brake suddenly, or shift from Drive to Reverse. This sound is the transmission moving excessively and hitting the car's frame.
- Excessive Vibration: A new mount absorbs vibrations, but a worn one doesn't. You might feel a constant vibration in the floor, seats, or steering wheel that gets worse during acceleration.
- Shifter Movement: In some cases, you might see the gear shifter physically jump or move when you step on the gas. This is a clear sign the transmission is not being held securely.
Is It Safe to Drive?
You can drive with a bad transmission mount for a short time, but it's not recommended. The constant movement puts extra stress on engine mounts, driveshaft components, and exhaust connections, which can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. It is best to get it replaced soon after noticing symptoms.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
When shopping for a new automatic transmission mount for your Camaro, you'll find several brands. They generally fall into different quality tiers. While OEM is always an option, some aftermarket brands offer a good balance of price and quality.
Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA)
Brands like Anchor and DEA are widely available and very affordable. However, many vehicle owners in forums report that these mounts are made with harder rubber and less durable materials. This can lead to more vibrations felt in the car compared to the original part and a shorter lifespan, with some reporting failure in as little as a few months. While the low price is tempting, you may end up replacing it again sooner than you'd like.
Standard & OEM-Equivalent Brands (Pioneer)
Brands like Pioneer are often considered a step up in quality, closer to the original factory part. Reviews suggest they provide a fit and feel similar to OEM, with good vibration absorption and durability. For a daily-driven vehicle, spending a little more on a standard-tier brand is often a better long-term value than choosing the cheapest option.
A Note on Polyurethane Mounts
You may see “performance” mounts made of polyurethane. While these are very strong, they are not recommended for most street-driven Camaros. They are very stiff and transfer a significant amount of noise and vibration into the cabin, which can be annoying for daily driving. It's best to stick with a quality rubber replacement for ride comfort.
Replacement Cost
Replacing the transmission mount is a straightforward job. The part itself is not expensive, and the labor is minimal for a professional mechanic.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $15 - $59 |
| New OEM Part (ACDelco) | $35 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $225 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $115 - $284 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
No, for a mechanically inclined person with the right tools, this is a relatively easy DIY job. It involves safely raising the vehicle, supporting the transmission with a jack, removing a crossmember, and unbolting the old mount. It can often be completed in 1-2 hours.
Are there any recalls for the 2009-2016 Camaro transmission mount?
No, there are no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the automatic transmission mount on the 2009-2016 Camaro. Searches did find recalls for later model years (2020-2022) related to an internal transmission valve, which is a separate issue.
My 2016 Camaro has a vibration, but the mount looks okay. What else could it be?
For the 2016 model year specifically, GM issued a customer satisfaction program (NHTSA #44470) for vehicles with the 8-speed automatic transmission. This was for an incorrectly machined torque converter that could cause a shudder or vibration. If you have a 2016 model with a vibration, it's worth having a professional check to see if it's the mount or a potential torque converter issue.
Will a bad transmission mount cause a Check Engine Light?
It is very unlikely. A transmission mount is a mechanical part and does not have sensors that would trigger a check engine light. The symptoms are almost always physical, such as noises and vibrations.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 20934788 20934790
The mount consists of a metal housing bonded to a rubber block designed to dampen vibration. It bolts to the transmission tailshaft housing and the vehicle's transmission crossmember.
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.
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