If your Honda Odyssey vibrates at idle or clunks when you shift between Reverse and Drive, the engine mounts are a prime suspect. These rubber-and-fluid mounts hold the engine in place, and on a heavy, high-mileage van they wear out — transmitting vibration straight into the cabin. This guide covers the symptoms, the cost, and how to replace them yourself.
Symptoms of Worn Engine Mounts
| Symptom | What it points to |
|---|---|
| Vibration at idle, worse in Drive | Fluid-filled mount worn and no longer damping |
| Clunk when shifting Reverse ↔ Drive | Mount allowing the engine to shift on its mounts |
| Vibration that stops in Neutral | Classic engine-mount signature under load |
| Engine visibly shifting when revved | Badly worn or collapsed mount |
Why They Wear Out
Engine mounts are filled with fluid and rubber that harden or leak over time. On the Odyssey’s V6, the front and rear mounts take the most strain, especially at higher mileage. When a mount collapses, the engine’s torque and motion pass directly into the body — which is the vibration you feel.
Replacement Cost
| Approach | Cost |
|---|---|
| Parts (full set of mounts) | $100–$200 |
| Labor at a shop | $150–$250 |
| Total at a shop | $250–$450 |
| DIY total (parts only) | $100–$200 + your time |
How to Replace the Engine Mounts
Replacing the mounts is a solid weekend DIY job. The front and rear mounts are accessible from under the car; the side mount usually needs care with clearance. Replacing the whole set at once is recommended since they wear together.
- Own the car up on jack stands and support the engine with a jack under the oil pan (use a block of wood to spread the load).
- Remove the mount fasteners from the worn mount — note which bracket goes where.
- Slowly raise or lower the engine with the jack just enough to clear the mount, never forcing it.
- Remove the old mount and fit the new one, reversing the removal order.
- Tighten to the manufacturer’s torque spec, then lower the engine back into the mount.
- Test drive — the idle vibration and shift clunk should be gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace Odyssey engine mounts?
A full set runs about $100–$200 for parts, plus $150–$250 labor at a shop — roughly $250–$450 total. DIY is parts-only.
Can I drive with a bad engine mount?
Yes, for a while — but the vibration gets worse and a badly worn mount lets the engine shift, risking damage to other components. Replace them when you notice it.
How long do Odyssey engine mounts last?
Typically anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000+ miles, depending on driving conditions. High-mileage vans often need them by 150k.
Do I need to replace all mounts at once?
It’s recommended — they wear at a similar rate, and doing them together avoids going back to the same job twice.
More Odyssey Repair Guides
Part of our Honda Odyssey guide hub. See the full 10 most common Odyssey problems, or read up on the transmission replacement that often needs healthy mounts by its side.