Why Cheap Mountings Cost More Than High-Quality Mountings

They say, “Buy cheap, buy twice,” and nowhere is this truer than in the world of automotive mountings. At first glance, opting for cheaper engine mountings might seem like a great way to save a few bucks. But, as any experienced mechanic will tell you, cutting corners on quality can lead to far more expensive repairs down the road.

The Hidden Costs of Cheap Mountings

Engine mountings play a crucial role in securing the engine to the vehicle’s chassis while absorbing vibrations and shocks. When manufacturers use subpar material compounds to cut costs, the mounting’s lifespan is significantly reduced compared to its high-quality counterpart. Here’s why choosing cheap mountings can backfire:

1. Engine Damage

Cheap mountings fail to absorb vibrations effectively, which means the engine block takes the hit. Over time, this stress can lead to cracks in the engine block, a repair that no car owner wants to face.

2. Transmission Trouble

A poorly mounted engine can become misaligned, putting unnecessary stress on transmission components such as universal or CV joints, gear selector linkages, and even the prop shaft. Premature wear and tear on these parts can lead to costly repairs that far exceed the price of a quality mounting.

3. Exhaust System Issues

Excessive engine movement caused by weak mountings can result in leaks or cracks in the exhaust system. If you’ve ever heard your exhaust system rattling or noticed a sudden change in engine noise, poor mountings might be the culprit.

4. Suspension System Wear

Believe it or not, inferior mountings can even wreak havoc on your vehicle’s suspension. By failing to absorb shock properly, vibrations from the engine transfer directly to the suspension components. This leads to premature wear of suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and other related parts, not to mention handling issues and uneven tire wear.

5. Cooling System Failures

Excessive engine movement due to weak mountings can damage the radiator or other cooling system components. When the engine shifts more than it should, it can pull on hoses and connectors, leading to leaks or even a total cooling system failure.

6. Accessory Component Damage

The ripple effect doesn’t stop there. Power steering pumps, alternators, air conditioning compressors, and any component fixed to the engine block can suffer damage due to the undue stresses caused by inferior mountings. A small saving on mountings could end up costing you a fortune in damaged components.

The Smarter Investment: High-Quality Mountings

While high-quality mountings might seem more expensive upfront, they provide durability, proper vibration absorption, and overall vehicle protection. In the long run, they save you from costly repairs and extend the life of other vital car components.

So, before you snap up that so-called “bargain,” remember cheap mountings might save you a little today, but they could bankrupt your wallet tomorrow. Investing in quality mountings is investing in the longevity and performance of your vehicle.

After all, “Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.” – Henry Ford

So do the smart thing and #AskForApex!