Subaru Forester Transmission Mount Guide (2014-2023): Problems and Replacement
Experiencing clunks or vibrations in your Forester? Your automatic transmission mount might be the cause.
- The most common signs of failure are clunking noises when shifting and new vibrations during acceleration.
- For this part, OEM quality is strongly recommended; budget aftermarket brands like Anchor and DEA have a poor reputation for quality and longevity.
- While the mount is a common cause, vibrations can also come from tires, control arms, or CV axles, so a correct diagnosis is important.
- Replacement is a feasible DIY job for someone with jack stands and basic mechanic's tools, taking about 1-2 hours.
Is Your Forester's Transmission Mount Failing?
A transmission mount is a wear-and-tear item. The rubber can crack, split, or separate from the metal frame after years of holding a heavy transmission and absorbing constant vibration. When it fails, the symptoms are usually obvious.
Common Failure Symptoms:
- Excessive Vibration: This is the most reported symptom. You might feel a new or worsening vibration through the floor, seats, or steering wheel, especially when accelerating from a stop. Some owners report a very specific, heavy vibration at certain RPMs, like 1500 RPM.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: Loud clunks or thuds when you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse are a classic sign. You may also hear these noises during hard acceleration or sudden braking as the transmission shifts around.
- Excessive Drivetrain Movement: A completely failed mount allows the transmission to move or rock noticeably. 🎬 See what a loose transmission mount looks like in action. This can sometimes be seen by having a helper shift the car between Drive and Reverse (with the brake held firmly) while you observe the engine bay. 🎬 Watch: How to check your transmission mounts for movement.
Vibration Isn't Always the Mount
While a bad mount is a likely cause, the Subaru Forester can also vibrate due to other issues. Unbalanced tires, bad wheel bearings, worn CV axles, or failing lower control arm bushings can also cause shaking. Furthermore, Subaru has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for certain models regarding CVT chain conditions that can cause sounds and vibrations, so a proper diagnosis is key.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: OEM vs. Aftermarket
When shopping for a new transmission mount for your Forester, you will face a choice between a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part and an aftermarket one. For this specific part, the quality difference can be significant.
OEM Mounts: These are the same parts Subaru installs at the factory. They are designed with a specific rubber hardness (durometer) to provide the best balance of support and vibration absorption for the Forester's CVT. This is the safest choice for a smooth, quiet ride.
Aftermarket Mounts (Anchor, DEA): Aftermarket brands offer a much lower price point. However, extensive feedback from mechanics and vehicle owners suggests that budget brands like Anchor and DEA are not recommended for engine or transmission mounts. The rubber is often too hard, leading to an increase in cabin vibration right after installation. There are also many reports of these mounts failing very quickly, sometimes in less than a year, forcing you to do the job all over again.
A Mechanic's Advice on Mounts
For parts like engine and transmission mounts, where vibration control is the main job, spending more for the OEM part is almost always worth it. The cost savings from a budget aftermarket mount are often lost when you have to replace it again soon after or live with increased cabin noise and harshness.
Cost to Replace a Subaru Forester Transmission Mount
The total cost depends on the part you choose and who does the work. The replacement is a manageable DIY job for those with the right tools and experience.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $31 - $71 |
| New OEM Part | $80 - $150 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $300 |
| Total (DIY, Aftermarket) | $31 - $71 |
| Total (Shop, Aftermarket) | $131 - $371 |
| Total (Shop, OEM) | $180 - $450 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still drive with a bad transmission mount?
You can, but it's not recommended for long. A completely failed mount puts extra stress on other parts like engine mounts, CV axles, and exhaust connections, which can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
How is the transmission mount replaced on a Forester?
A mechanic will safely lift the vehicle, support the transmission from below with a jack and a block of wood, unbolt and remove the transmission crossmember, and then unbolt the old mount from the transmission. The new mount is then installed, and the components are reassembled to the correct torque specifications.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing your Forester's transmission mount.Is there a recall on the 2014-2023 Forester transmission mount?
No, there are no active recalls from Subaru or the NHTSA for the automatic transmission mount on this generation of Forester. There was a recall for a transmission inhibitor switch on some 2022 models, but this is an unrelated electronic part.
Why is an OEM mount so strongly recommended over brands like Anchor or DEA?
OEM mounts are made with a specific rubber compound and design to perfectly match the vibration frequency of your Forester's engine and CVT. Budget aftermarket brands often use a generic, harder rubber that doesn't absorb vibration well, resulting in a rougher ride. Forum discussions are filled with owner experiences of these cheaper mounts failing quickly or causing more vibration than the old, worn-out part they replaced.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 41022AC180
The OEM part number for many vehicles in this range is 41022AC180, but always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN before ordering. The mount consists of a metal housing and a rubber insulator designed to support the automatic (CVT) transmission.
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.
- Subaru Forester:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Forester's Transmission Mount Failing?
- Common Failure Symptoms:
- Vibration Isn't Always the Mount
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: OEM vs. Aftermarket
- A Mechanic's Advice on Mounts
- Cost to Replace a Subaru Forester Transmission Mount
- Frequently Asked Questions
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