A Guide to the 2014-2020 Chevrolet Impala Automatic Transmission Mount
If you're feeling vibrations or hearing clunks when you shift, your Impala's transmission mount may need replacement.
- Vibrations at idle and clunking noises when shifting are the most common signs of a failed mount.
- Be very cautious with budget aftermarket brands like Anchor and DEA, as widespread forum reports cite poor fit and short lifespan.
- It is wise to inspect all engine and transmission mounts at once, as they wear as a system.
- For this part, spending more on an OEM or premium aftermarket mount is often cheaper than replacing a failed budget part twice.
Understanding Transmission Mount Failure in Your Impala
The transmission mount is made of metal and rubber. Over time, the rubber can crack, collapse, or become saturated with leaking fluids like oil, which causes it to soften and fail. When this happens, the mount can no longer properly support the transmission or absorb vibrations. Since your Impala has several mounts supporting the engine and transmission, the failure of one mount puts extra stress on the others, which can cause them to fail sooner.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
A bad transmission mount will give you a few clear warning signs. Paying attention to these can help you diagnose the problem before it causes damage to other parts.
- Excessive Vibration: This is the most common symptom. You might feel a strong vibration through the floor, seats, or steering wheel, especially when accelerating, shifting gears, or idling in drive.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: Loud clunks or bangs when you shift from park into drive or reverse are a tell-tale sign. You may also hear noise when accelerating hard or driving over bumps as the transmission moves and hits the frame.
- Rough Shifting: While less common, a severely failed mount can affect shift quality because the transmission is no longer properly aligned with the rest of the drivetrain.
- Visible Movement: If you have a helper shift the car between drive and reverse (with the brake held firmly), you may be able to see the engine and transmission assembly rock or lurch excessively under the hood. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose bad mounts using these simple tests.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: A Warning
When shopping for a new aftermarket transmission mount for your Impala, it's important to understand that quality varies significantly between brands. While the lower price of some brands is tempting, it can lead to more problems.
A Note on Budget Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar)
Extensive feedback from mechanics and vehicle owners in online communities suggests that budget-friendly brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar should be approached with caution for this specific part. Common complaints include poor fitment due to misaligned bolt holes, use of thinner metal brackets compared to the original part, and low-quality rubber that fails very quickly, sometimes within months. While the initial cost is low, you may end up paying more in the long run if you have to do the repair a second time.
OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a part like a transmission mount, where ride quality and durability are key, the original equipment (OEM) part is often the safest choice. Aftermarket parts can be a good value, but for this component on the Impala, many users report that the savings are not worth the potential for premature failure and added vibration. If you choose an aftermarket part, select a brand with a strong reputation and a good warranty, and be aware that it may not provide the same level of vibration damping as the original.
Pro Tip: Inspect All Mounts
Your Impala has multiple mounts, including one on the engine and three for the transmission (front left, left, and rear left). When one fails, the others have been under extra strain. It is highly recommended to inspect all engine and transmission mounts at the same time and replace any that show signs of wear, cracking, or collapse.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a transmission mount can vary based on local labor rates and the parts you choose. The 2014-2020 Impala has more than one transmission mount, and this table reflects the cost for a single part and the labor to install it.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Mount | $90 - $185 |
| New Aftermarket Mount | $32 - $118 |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $152 - $435 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the Impala transmission mount myself?
Yes, this is a feasible DIY project for someone with mechanical experience and the right tools. You will need a good socket set, wrenches, and a floor jack with a block of wood to safely support the transmission. The job typically involves removing the driver's side wheel and inner fender liner to access the mount. However, improper installation can lead to vibrations, so if you are not confident, it's best to leave it to a professional.
🎬 See this step-by-step replacement guide for 2012 and newer Impalas.Is it safe to drive with a bad transmission mount?
You can drive the vehicle, but it is not recommended for an extended period. A failed mount puts stress on other components, including CV axles, other mounts, and exhaust connections. Ignoring the problem can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
How many transmission mounts does a 2014-2020 Impala have?
The V6 models of this generation typically use a four-point mounting system: one right-side engine mount and three transmission mounts (front left, left/main, and rear left). It's important to identify which specific mount has failed 🎬 Watch: A quick walkthrough of the Impala transmission mount location. before ordering a replacement.
Why do I feel more vibration after installing a new aftermarket mount?
This is a common issue with lower-cost aftermarket mounts. The rubber used may be harder than the original factory part, which causes more engine and transmission vibration to be transferred into the car's frame. In other cases, it can be a sign of poor fitment or incorrect installation.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13312105 13228303 13346302 22849847 22902469
The 2014-2020 Impala uses a system of multiple mounts. The automatic transmission is supported by three separate mounts: a front left mount (strut type), a main left mount, and a rear left mount. Many are made of aluminum and natural rubber. Some original mounts are hydraulic to better dampen vibrations.
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.
- Chevrolet Impala:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding Transmission Mount Failure in Your Impala
- Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Mount
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: A Warning
- A Note on Budget Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar)
- OEM vs. Aftermarket
- Pro Tip: Inspect All Mounts
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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