A Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts on Your 2015-2019 Kia Forte
If your Kia Forte is vibrating or making clunking noises, a bad engine mount is a likely cause.
- The primary sign of a failing engine mount in a Kia Forte is vibration at idle and clunking noises during acceleration.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor and DEA are affordable but often use harder rubber, which can increase cabin vibration compared to OEM.
- For the smoothest ride, OEM mounts are highly recommended, but they cost significantly more than aftermarket options.
- There are no specific recalls or TSBs for engine mounts on the 2015-2019 Kia Forte; failure is due to normal wear.
Is Your Kia Forte Shaking at Stop Lights?
A common issue for the 2015-2019 Kia Forte is the failure of one or more engine mounts. The most frequent symptom is a noticeable vibration felt through the steering wheel, seats, or dashboard, especially when the car is idling in 'Drive'. You might also hear clunking or thumping sounds from the engine bay when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift from Park to Reverse or Drive. These are classic signs that the rubber in your engine mounts has worn out or broken.
🎬 Watch: See common symptoms of a bad Kia engine mount.Known Issues for the 2015-2019 Kia Forte
While there are several engine-related recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for this generation of Kia Forte, none specifically address the engine mounts themselves. The issues with mounts are generally due to age and wear. The passenger-side engine mount is often the first to fail and is the most commonly replaced.
🎬 Learn how to diagnose bad motor mounts in your vehicle.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: A Note on Quality
When shopping for a new engine mount, you have two main choices: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket. This choice is very important for a part like an engine mount.
- OEM Mounts: These are the same parts Kia used to build your car. They are designed to absorb a specific amount of vibration to keep the cabin quiet and comfortable. For the best ride quality, OEM is the top choice.
- Aftermarket Mounts: These are made by other companies. Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Pioneer are widely available and are typically much less expensive than OEM parts. However, there is a trade-off. To keep costs down, these mounts often use a harder rubber compound. This can result in more engine vibration being transferred into the car's cabin, even with a brand-new part. Many owners and mechanics report that budget aftermarket mounts can make the car vibrate more than the old, worn-out OEM mount they replaced.
Replacement Costs
The cost to replace an engine mount depends on the parts you choose and who does the work. There are typically three main mounts on a Forte: one for the engine (passenger side), one for the transmission (driver side), and a lower torque strut mount (dog bone). Prices below are for a single mount.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $84.53 - $100.77 |
| New OEM Mount | $190 - $230 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $185 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket) | $185 - $285 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM) | $290 - $415 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an engine mount myself?
Yes, for a moderately skilled DIYer, this is a possible job. The passenger-side mount is the most accessible. The basic steps involve supporting the engine from below with a jack and a block of wood, unbolting the mount bracket from the engine, and then unbolting the old mount from the car frame. You will need tools like 14mm and 17mm sockets, a breaker bar for tight bolts, and a torque wrench to tighten the new bolts to factory specifications.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough for replacing the passenger-side engine mount.How many engine mounts does my 2015-2019 Forte have?
Your Kia Forte has a system of three or four mounts that work together. Typically, there is a main engine mount on the passenger side, a transmission mount on the driver's side, and one or two lower torque mounts (often called 'dog bone' mounts) to prevent the engine from rocking during acceleration. If one has failed, it's a good idea to inspect the others, as they have been under extra stress.
Why do aftermarket mounts cause more vibration?
The rubber used in an engine mount is specifically engineered to absorb vibrations at certain frequencies. OEM manufacturers spend significant time and money developing the perfect rubber compound for a smooth ride. Many budget aftermarket brands use a simpler, harder, and less expensive rubber to save costs. This harder rubber is less effective at absorbing vibrations, so more of them are felt inside the car.
Are there any recalls for Kia Forte engine mounts?
No. As of early 2026, there are no active safety recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Kia for engine mount failure on the 2015-2019 Forte models. Failures are considered a normal wear-and-tear item.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 21810-A7000 21810-B0000 21950-A7000 21830-A7050
The 2015-2019 Kia Forte typically uses a system of three to four mounts, including a primary engine mount (right side), a transmission mount (left side), and at least one lower torque strut mount.
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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.
- Kia Forte: