Mitsubishi RVR Engine Mount Guide (2011-2024): Symptoms and Replacement
If your RVR is vibrating, shaking, or making clunking noises, your engine mounts may be worn out.
- The most common symptom of a bad mount is a strong vibration at idle when in Drive that goes away in Park.
- The passenger-side mount is hydraulic and prone to leaking; check it for oily residue.
- For 2011-2016 models, check for the front crossmember rust recall (SR-20-003) before replacing mounts.
- Replacing mounts as a complete set is recommended for the best and longest-lasting repair.
Is Your RVR Shaking? Signs of a Bad Engine Mount
When an engine mount fails on your 2011-2024 Mitsubishi RVR (also known as the Outlander Sport), the signs are hard to ignore. The most common issue is a strong vibration you can feel in the steering wheel, seats, and dashboard. This is often worst when the car is stopped and in Drive, but gets better when you shift to Park or Neutral. Here are the main symptoms to watch for:
🎬 Watch: How to identify common signs of motor mount failure- Excessive Vibration: A strong shaking felt inside the cabin, especially at idle.
- Clunking Noises: Loud clunks, thumps, or bangs from the engine bay when you accelerate, slow down, or shift gears. This is the sound of the engine moving too much and hitting other parts. 🎬 Listen to this real-world example of an RVR engine rattle
- Visible Engine Movement: If you open the hood and have a helper hold the brake while shifting from Drive to Reverse, you might see the engine lurch or rock more than an inch or two.
- Leaking Fluid: The main passenger-side mount is filled with hydraulic fluid. If you see dark, oily residue on or around this mount, it has failed and leaked.
Crossmember Corrosion Recall
For 2011-2016 RVR/Outlander Sport models, especially those in areas with heavy road salt use, there is a safety recall (SR-20-003) for severe rust on the front crossmember. This is the part the lower engine mount attaches to. A rusted crossmember can lead to a loss of steering control. A Mitsubishi dealer will inspect and repair this for free.
Choosing an Aftermarket Engine Mount
When replacing your RVR's engine mounts, you have a choice between Original Equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. OEM mounts are what the car was built with, but they are more expensive. Aftermarket parts are often more affordable and can be a good value, but quality can vary between brands.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Pioneer): Some aftermarket brands like Pioneer are known for having quality that is very close to OEM parts. They often fit well and provide good performance without the high OEM price tag.
- Standard Aftermarket (e.g., Anchor, DEA): Brands like Anchor and DEA are widely available and very affordable. They can be a good choice for a budget repair, but some mechanics report they may not last as long or absorb vibrations as well as OEM or premium aftermarket options. For a daily driver, a good quality aftermarket part is often a perfectly fine choice.
Pro Tip: If one mount has failed, the others have been under extra stress and are likely worn. It's a good idea to replace them as a set to save on future labor costs and ensure a smooth, vibration-free ride. Kits containing all four mounts are available.
Engine Mount Replacement Cost for Mitsubishi RVR (2011-2024)
The cost to replace an engine mount depends on whether you do it yourself or go to a shop, and the type of parts you use.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount (Single) | $29.62 - $65.16 |
| New OEM Mount (Single) | $100 - $350+ |
| Shop Labor (per mount) | $75 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $105 - $265 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM Part) | $175 - $550+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does my Mitsubishi RVR have?
The Mitsubishi RVR (Outlander Sport) typically has four mounts: a front mount, a rear mount (often called a dog bone or torque strut), a right-side (passenger) engine mount, and a left-side transmission mount. Together, they support the entire engine and transmission assembly.
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
Yes, you can replace just the one failed mount. However, it's often recommended to replace them all at the same time. When one mount fails, it puts extra strain on the others, causing them to wear out faster. Replacing them as a set ensures everything is fresh and properly balanced.
Is replacing an RVR engine mount a DIY job?
Yes, for a home mechanic with the right tools, this is a doable job. The lower and front mounts are generally easier, while the passenger-side and transmission mounts require supporting the engine's weight with a jack and a block of wood. If you are not comfortable supporting an engine, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
🎬 See this DIY walkthrough for replacing RVR engine and transmission mountsWill a bad engine mount cause a Check Engine Light?
No, a failing engine mount will not typically trigger a Check Engine Light. The symptoms are purely physical, such as vibrations and noises.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MN101572 MN101441
The 2011-2024 Mitsubishi RVR uses a set of four mounts, including a fluid-filled hydraulic mount on the passenger side and a torque strut mount at the rear.
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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.
- Mitsubishi RVR: