Mazda3 Engine Mounting
Feb 25th, 2008 by AnA
I have been driving my Mazda3 for the pass 4 years. This car is considering pretty reliable in general. No major problem encounter. However, recently, I started to experience vibration during every initial start up of the engine, I could feel the car vibrated badly. Lately, this vibration worsen and I could even feel it while driving and it really took out the joy of driving the car. Vibration could be felt on the steering, accelerator’s paddle and the car’s body.
Understand from the Mazda agent that it is likely due to the damage of the engine’s mounting. The rubber of the mounting could be cracked or sank down due to the constant vibration and weight of the engine. I know over time, such mounting will be subjected to wear and tear. But, surprisingly, Mazda3’s mounting does not seem to last as long as other make. This seem to be a know fact if you do a search in the web. Mine give way when my car was around 2.5 years old. Too bad, I should have highlighted this to the dealer before the warranty ends. Anyway, moving forward, I will definitely get it replace.
For many months, there was not stock for No.3 engine mounting. I have waited for 3 long months and the stock finally arrived and I got my No.3 engine mounting replaced. Anyway, my car was serviced by Mazda Motor (Singapore). After some diagnose, the service adviser only recommended to change the No. 3 engine mounting. The other two mountings (No.1 and No.4) only show some signs of hardening and should not contribute much to the vibration. Trusted the service adviser, I was convinced to only change the No. 3 engine mounting.
After the replacement of the No. 3 engine mounting, the car feel totally different. It feels like new. Well, not as good as new but at least near to 90%. I may consider to change the other two mountings if possible. For now, I am really happy with the result and for the first time, I feel like I am now driving a car and not a lorry.
For those interested to know more about the procedure of repairing the mountings, please refer to this Mazda3 Engine Mounting procedure from Mazda North American Operation Service Bulletin.
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