The Mini Cooper is one of the most recognizable vehicles on the road. It is fun to drive while providing smooth drivability and dependability. As with many other vehicles, it can experience engine mount failure.
What is an engine mount?
Engine mounts are pieces that hold the engine in place. On average, there are 4 mounts that attach the motor to the frame. Engine mounts often use rubber to reduce vibrations and noises. This helps provide a more comfortable and quieter ride.
Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
The engine mounts are critical parts of your Mini and are necessary to keep the engine stable. If one or more fails, there will be some obvious signs.
- Impact Noises: Impact noises come from the engine shifting back and forth under the hood of your Mini. You may hear banging, clunking, or rattling
- Extreme Vibrations: The most common symptom of a failed engine mount is extreme vibrations. The vibrations can get so intense that the whole car will shake and vibrate.
- Engine Moves: If an engine mount fails, your engine can move around. You may notice it moving when braking, accelerating or turning a corner.
- Engine Is Not Level: When an engine mount fails, the engine can tilt to one side.
- Engine Block is Damaged: If the mount fails and is not replaced right away it can lead to a damaged engine block. If the block is damaged, the engine can bounce around. This can be very dangerous and cause an accident.
- Belt and Hose Damage: When the engine slides around, it can damage belts and hoses.
Common Causes of Engine Mount Failure
There are several reasons that you may experience engine mount failure. Some of these are:
- Normal wear and tear: This is the most common reason for engine mount failure in the Mini Cooper. Everyday driving puts a lot of stress on the mounts, and they may naturally wear down over time.
- Improper Installation: A motor mount that has been installed incorrectly can break.
- Defective Motor Mount: Defective mounts are uncommon, but it can happen. They often fail after a few trips.
- Stressed Driving: Aggressive driving puts a lot of stress on the motor mounts. The stress can cause the rubber to break apart.
- An Accident: The motor mounts can be damaged in a collision.
Is it safe to drive with bad motor mounts?
Driving your Mini with broken motor mounts can be dangerous. When a motor mount fails, the engine will become loose. This allows it to move around. The movement can damage the engine, frame, and other components. The intense vibrations and damage can make it hard to handle the vehicle.
Replacing the Engine Mount in Your Mini Cooper
If you have bad motor mounts, they need to be replaced as soon as possible. Replacing them right away will save you from more damage and costly repairs. The longer you wait, the more damage you will suffer.
At Dart Auto, we specialize in German auto repair. Our certified mechanics will replace your engine mounts at an affordable price. You do not have to take your Mini Cooper into a busy dealership for service. We can provide the same service and we will do it cheaper and quicker.
Dart Auto is Here to Help
Mini Coopers require special care. It is imperative that you only have a certified mechanic perform any service work. Your engine 
is the most important and expensive part of your car. The motor mounts are there to protect it and prevent damage. If they fail, your engine can experience damage.
To protect your engine and keep your Mini Cooper running in proper working order, have your motor mounts replaced as soon as you notice a problem. Do not wait. At Dart Auto, we can replace your motor mounts cheaper than a dealership. Our service department is stocked with all the equipment and tools needed to fix your problem right the first time.
A common misconception is that you must take your Mini Cooper to a dealership for service. This is not the case. Our mechanics can perform the same services at a less expense cost than a dealership. Our certified mechanics can handle all your Mini Cooper service needs. You can reach us on (303) 296-1188. Dart Auto is conveniently located to drivers in Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, and Denver, CO.
