A Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts on the 2011-2019 Volvo S60
If your Volvo S60 is vibrating at idle or making clunking noises, a bad engine mount is the likely cause.
- The most common signs of failure are intense vibrations at idle and clunking noises during acceleration or shifting.
- Your S60 has several mounts; the upper torque mount is easiest to replace, while the main hydraulic mounts require supporting the engine.
- For best results, choose premium aftermarket brands like Corteco or Febi that mimic OEM vibration damping.
- Driving with a bad mount can cause other parts to fail, so it's best to replace it soon after diagnosis.
Is Your S60 Shaking? Signs of a Bad Engine Mount
Worn engine mounts on the 2011-2019 Volvo S60 show clear symptoms. The most common sign is a strong vibration felt through the steering wheel, seats, and dashboard, especially when the car is stopped at a light with the transmission in Drive. You might also hear loud clunks, bangs, or thuds when you accelerate, brake, or shift gears. This noise is the sound of the engine physically shifting and hitting other components because the mount can no longer hold it securely. In some cases, you may even see the engine rocking excessively under the hood if a helper revs the engine while the car is in park.
🎬 Watch: How to spot the signs of a failed mount.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount for Your Volvo
Your S60 has several engine mounts, but the most common ones to fail are the main hydraulic mounts and the upper torque mount (often called a torque rod). 🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the upper torque mount. When shopping for a replacement, it's important to understand the quality differences between brands.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
For a luxury car like a Volvo, the quality of the rubber and hydraulic fluid inside the mount makes a big difference in ride comfort. While Genuine Volvo parts are the benchmark, high-quality aftermarket brands can offer similar performance for less money. Cheaper, budget-oriented brands may save you money upfront but often use harder rubber, which can transmit more vibration into the cabin and may not last as long.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (Corteco, Febi): Brands like Corteco and Febi are known for making parts that closely match original equipment (OE) specifications. Corteco, in particular, is often cited for using rubber compounds that provide vibration damping similar to the factory parts, making them a strong choice for maintaining your Volvo's smooth ride.
- Standard Aftermarket (Anchor, DEA, Professional Parts Sweden): 🎬 Watch: Installing a Pro Parts Sweden lower torque rod. These brands provide a reliable, budget-friendly solution. They are designed to fit correctly and will solve the major issues of a completely failed mount, like clunking and extreme movement. However, they may not isolate vibrations as effectively as a premium or Genuine part.
- Genuine Volvo: This is the original part your car was built with. It guarantees a perfect fit and the intended ride quality, but it comes at the highest price.
Known Issues and Bulletins
While no widespread recalls exist for engine mounts on the 2011-2019 S60, Volvo has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for related issues on newer models. TSBs #TJ3655550 and #TJ3656310 were released for the 2021 S60 to address a "creaking noise from right engine pad." This indicates that the engine mounts, or "pads," can be a source of noise issues recognized by the manufacturer.
Engine Mount Replacement Cost for 2011-2019 Volvo S60
The cost to replace an engine mount depends on the part brand you choose and local labor rates. The main hydraulic mounts are more expensive than the upper torque mount.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Engine Mount | $52 - $235 |
| New OEM (Genuine Volvo) Engine Mount | $320 - $340 |
| Shop Labor | $160 - $240 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $212 - $475 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM Part) | $480 - $580 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive with a bad engine mount?
You can, but it's not recommended for long. While the engine is unlikely to fall out, a broken mount puts extra stress on the other mounts, causing them to fail sooner. The excessive engine movement can also damage other components like exhaust pipes, coolant hoses, and wiring.
How many engine mounts does a 2011-2019 S60 have?
These Volvos typically have four or five mounts. This includes a right-side hydraulic engine mount, a transmission mount, a lower torque rod, and an upper torque rod or mount. The exact configuration can vary slightly by engine and year.
Should I replace all my engine mounts at once?
If one mount has failed due to age and mileage, the others are likely worn as well. Replacing them all at once is the best practice to restore the original ride quality and prevent another mount from failing shortly after. However, if budget is a concern, you can replace only the one that has completely failed.
What is a hydraulic engine mount?
The main engine mounts on your S60 are hydraulic. This means they are filled with a special fluid. This design is more effective at absorbing a wide range of engine vibrations than a solid piece of rubber, which is key to the car's smooth and quiet operation.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 30680474
The primary engine mounts on the 2011-2019 Volvo S60 are of a hydraulic rubber-metal bushing design. The system also includes solid rubber torque mounts 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 S60:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your S60 Shaking? Signs of a Bad Engine Mount
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount for Your Volvo
- OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Known Issues and Bulletins
- Engine Mount Replacement Cost for 2011-2019 Volvo S60
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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