A Guide to Engine Mount Replacement for the 2020-2024 Kia Forte
If your Kia Forte is vibrating or making clunking noises, it might be time to check your engine mounts.
- The most common signs of a bad engine mount are heavy vibration at idle and a clunking noise when shifting gears.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor and DEA offer a cost-effective solution for daily driving compared to more expensive OEM parts.
- Replacing an engine mount requires supporting the engine correctly with a jack or support bar to prevent damage.
- When one mount fails, it's wise to inspect the other mounts for wear, as they are all the same age and under similar stress.
Is Your Forte's Engine Mount Failing?
Engine mounts are wear-and-tear items that eventually need replacement. The rubber can crack and degrade over time, or the internal hydraulic fluid can leak out on some types. When a mount fails, the symptoms are usually obvious. Ignoring them can lead to damage to other components like hoses, wiring, or the exhaust system.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Mount:
- Vibration: The most common sign is an intense vibration felt in the steering wheel, floor, or seats. This is often worst when the car is stopped at a light with the transmission in Drive.
- Clunking Noises: Loud clunks, bangs, or thumps from the engine bay are a clear sign of a bad mount. You'll hear these noises most when you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse, or during hard acceleration or braking.
- Engine Movement: A healthy engine should stay relatively still. If you have a helper watch the engine (from a safe position to the side) while you shift gears with your foot on the brake, you might see the engine lurch or lift excessively. This indicates a broken mount. 🎬 Watch: How to locate and identify a failing engine mount
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of early 2026, there are no active recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Kia or the NHTSA specifically for engine mount failure on the 2020-2024 Kia Forte. Problems with these parts are generally due to normal wear and tear over time and mileage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
When replacing an engine mount, you have a choice between Original Equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. OEM mounts are the same ones Kia uses at the factory, designed for a specific feel and quality, but they come at a higher price. Aftermarket mounts are designed to be a direct, cost-effective replacement.
Brand Tiers for Your Forte:
- Standard Replacement (Anchor, DEA): Brands like Anchor and DEA are widely available and offer a budget-friendly alternative to OEM parts. They are designed to meet original specifications and are a practical choice for daily drivers where cost is a primary concern. While some professional mechanics prefer OEM for longevity, a standard aftermarket mount provides a reliable solution to fix symptoms like vibration and clunking at a lower price point.
Pro Tip: Inspect All Mounts
Your Forte has multiple mounts, including a passenger-side mount, a transmission mount, and a lower torque strut mount (often called a "dog bone"). When one mount fails, it puts extra stress on the others. It's a good practice to inspect all of them at the same time and replace them in sets if they show similar signs of wear.
🎬 See this step-by-step passenger side mount replacement guideEngine Mount Replacement Cost for 2020-2024 Kia Forte
The total cost depends on whether you do the job yourself or take it to a shop. The main cost difference is in the parts and labor.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (e.g., Anchor, DEA) | $93.85 - $98.36 |
| New OEM | $140 - $210 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $150 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $195 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM Part) | $290 - $360 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does a 2020-2024 Kia Forte have?
A Kia Forte typically has three or four mounts that secure the engine and transmission. The main ones are the right-side (passenger) mount, the left-side (transmission) mount, and a lower torque strut mount that controls the engine's rocking motion.
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
Yes, you can replace only the failed mount. However, since all mounts are the same age, the failure of one could mean others are nearing the end of their service life. It's best to inspect all of them when one is replaced.
Will an aftermarket engine mount feel different than the original?
A new aftermarket mount should feel much better than the failed mount it's replacing, eliminating vibrations and noise. Some users report that certain budget-friendly aftermarket mounts can be slightly stiffer than the original OEM part, potentially transmitting a minor amount of extra vibration at idle. However, for most drivers, the improvement is significant and well worth the cost savings.
What happens if I don't replace a bad engine mount?
Continuing to drive with a broken engine mount is not recommended. The excessive engine movement can put stress on other critical parts, such as coolant hoses, electrical wiring, and exhaust components, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
🎬 Learn more about common Kia engine mount failure symptomsHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 21810-M6250 21810-M6300 21830-M6200 21810M6150
The 2020-2024 Kia Forte uses several mounts, including a right-side engine mount, a left-side transmission mount, and a lower torque strut mount. Part numbers vary based on engine (1.6L Turbo or 2.0L) and transmission type. Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN.
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.
- Kia Forte:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Forte's Engine Mount Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Mount:
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
- Brand Tiers for Your Forte:
- Pro Tip: Inspect All Mounts
- Engine Mount Replacement Cost for 2020-2024 Kia Forte
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off