A Guide to the Automatic Transmission Mount for the 2011-2016 Audi A4 Quattro
Addressing the common clunks, vibrations, and shifting issues caused by a failing transmission mount in your Audi A4.
- The most common sign of failure is a 'clunk' noise when shifting into gear.
- Driving with a bad mount can cause damage to other drivetrain parts over time.
- Budget aftermarket brands like Anchor and URO have a poor reputation for quality and longevity in this application.
- A mount insert is a popular, affordable upgrade to reduce drivetrain slop if the main rubber is intact.
Is Your A4 Quattro Making Clunking Noises?
One of the most common and noticeable signs of a failing transmission mount in the B8 platform A4 is a distinct clunking or thudding noise. This sound is most often heard when shifting gears, particularly from Park to Drive or from Drive to Reverse. You might also notice it during hard acceleration or braking. This noise occurs because the rubber in the mount has worn out, allowing the transmission to move excessively and hit against the chassis.
Other Symptoms of a Bad Transmission Mount
- Excessive Vibrations: You may feel vibrations in the cabin, through the floor, or in the gear shifter. These vibrations are often worse when the car is stopped in gear, or during acceleration.
- Rough Shifting: A worn mount can cause the transmission to be misaligned, leading to rough or jerky gear changes.
- Drivetrain Movement: In severe cases, you might feel or even see the engine and transmission assembly move more than it should when revving the engine with the brakes applied.
A Note on Aftermarket Brand Quality
When replacing this part, the quality of the brand you choose matters significantly. The original Audi mount is designed for comfort, but its rubber contains a large void that can be a weak point. While budget-friendly aftermarket options are available, owner experiences suggest they come with major trade-offs.
- Economy Brands (e.g., Anchor, URO Parts): Many Audi and other European car owners in forums report that brands like Anchor and URO use harder rubber compounds that don't absorb vibration well and can fail very quickly—sometimes in just a few months. While the low price is tempting, you may find yourself doing the job again sooner than you'd like.
- Standard Aftermarket (e.g., Pioneer Cable): These brands aim to be a direct replacement for the original part, meeting OEM specifications for fit and function. They offer a middle ground on price without the widespread negative reputation of the economy brands.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): The original Audi part offers the most predictable quality and longevity, but at the highest cost.
Consider a Mount Insert
If your mount's rubber isn't completely torn, a popular and effective upgrade is a transmission mount insert. Brands like 034Motorsport and CTS Turbo make billet aluminum inserts that fill the void in the factory mount. This drastically reduces drivetrain movement, leading to crisper shifts without a significant increase in cabin vibration. It's an easy and affordable way to improve upon the original design.
Replacement Costs
The cost to replace your A4 Quattro's transmission mount can vary based on the parts you choose and who performs the labor.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $61.81 - $83.69 |
| New OEM Part | $205 - $210 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Repair (Aftermarket) | $211 - $334 |
| Total Professional Repair (OEM) | $355 - $460 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to drive with a bad transmission mount?
You can drive the vehicle, but it's not recommended for long. Continuing to drive with a failed mount puts extra stress on other components like the engine mounts, CV axles, and driveshaft, which can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
How can I be sure my transmission mount is bad?
A mechanic can perform a definitive test. With the engine on and brakes applied, they will shift from Drive to Reverse to observe the amount of drivetrain movement. A visual inspection underneath the car can also reveal cracks, tears, or sagging in the mount's rubber bushing.
Are there any recalls for the transmission mount on the 2011-2016 A4?
No, there are no specific NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the automatic transmission mount on this vehicle.
Why not just buy the cheapest aftermarket mount?
Cheaper mounts, like those from Anchor or URO, have a strong reputation among car enthusiasts for failing quickly. They often use a hard rubber that transmits more vibration into the car and can tear or collapse within a year, meaning you'll have to pay for parts and labor all over again.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8K0399151DK 8K0399151CD 8K0399151DB
This is the rear mount for the automatic transmission, often called a transmission crossmember mount. It consists of a metal frame with a large, voided rubber bushing.
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.
- Audi A4 Quattro: