How Much It Costs to Replace Motor Mounts on an Audi A4

Replacing motor mounts on an Audi A4 typically costs between $600 and $1,300 in the United States, with most owners paying around $800–$1,000 at a reputable independent shop as of late 2024. The final price depends on the model year, engine type, whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts, and labor rates in your area.

What Motor Mounts Do and Why They Matter

Motor mounts (also called engine mounts) secure the engine to the vehicle’s subframe while isolating vibration and absorbing torque. On many Audi A4 models, particularly those with turbocharged engines, the mounts are fluid-filled or electronically controlled to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). When they fail, drivers often notice increased vibration, clunks under acceleration, or a rougher feel at idle.

Typical Cost Breakdown for Audi A4 Motor Mount Replacement

While every repair order is a little different, most bills for Audi A4 motor mount replacement can be broken down into parts and labor, with some additional small charges like shop fees or taxes.

Overall Price Range

Across major repair estimators, dealer quotes, and independent shop data as of 2024, these are realistic price bands for replacing the two primary engine mounts on an Audi A4 in North America:

• Low end (budget / aftermarket parts, lower labor rate): about $600–$750
• Typical independent European specialist: about $800–$1,000
• Franchise dealership (OEM mounts, higher labor rate): about $1,000–$1,300+

These figures usually cover both front engine mounts on a common 2.0T A4; prices can climb if additional mounts (like transmission mounts) are replaced at the same time.

Parts: OEM vs. Aftermarket Mounts

The type and source of the motor mounts have a major impact on the final bill.

The key cost elements for parts usually include:

• OEM (Audi / Genuine VAG) engine mounts: typically $200–$350 each depending on model year and whether the mount is electronically controlled or fluid-filled.
• High-quality aftermarket mounts (known European brands): commonly around $120–$220 each, often with performance or heavy-duty options.
• Budget aftermarket mounts: as low as $70–$120 each, but they may not last as long or control vibration as well.
• Hardware and incidentals: new bolts or brackets, where required, can add $20–$60.

Owners who plan to keep the car long term or want factory-like refinement often choose OEM or reputable aftermarket brands, while budget-focused repairs may opt for cheaper mounts with the tradeoff of potentially reduced longevity.

Labor Costs and Time

Labor is the second big component and varies widely by region and shop type.

Labor costs for Audi A4 motor mount replacement are typically made up of these factors:

1. Book labor time: replacing both engine mounts on an A4 usually books at about 2.5–4.0 hours, depending on generation and engine (B7, B8, B9, etc.).
2. Hourly rate:
   

   • Independent European specialist: roughly $120–$180/hour in many U.S. metro areas.
   • Dealership: commonly $170–$250/hour.

3. Total labor cost: usually lands between $300 and $800, with most independent shops in the $400–$600 window for both mounts.

The job involves supporting the engine, removing underbody covers and brackets, loosening subframe components as needed, and carefully swapping mounts in tight spaces—tasks that justify the moderate labor time even for experienced technicians.

How Costs Vary by Audi A4 Generation and Engine

Not every Audi A4 is built the same, and that affects how much you’ll pay. The model year, chassis code, and engine layout all influence part prices and labor complexity.

B7 (2005–2008) A4

The B7 generation, often with the 2.0T or 3.2 V6, is now older and parts are relatively accessible.

For B7 A4s, typical pricing looks like this:

• Parts (pair of mounts): about $250–$500 depending on OEM vs aftermarket.
• Labor: around 2.5–3.5 hours at current rates, or $350–$600.
• Total typical: about $700–$1,000.

On these older cars, some owners opt for mid-range aftermarket mounts to keep costs down without stepping into very cheap, low-durability options.

B8 / B8.5 (2009–2016) A4

The B8 generation, especially the 2.0T, is one of the most common Audi A4s on the used market and frequently shows mount wear around 80,000–120,000 miles.

For B8/B8.5 2.0T models, pricing often falls into these ranges:

• Parts (pair of mounts): about $300–$600 (higher for electronic/hydraulic OEM units).
• Labor: generally 3–4 hours, or around $400–$700 depending on shop rate.
• Total typical: about $800–$1,200.

Many B8 owners report notable improvements in vibration and cabin comfort after mount replacement, making it a worthwhile mid-life service item.

B9 (2017–Present) A4

The B9 generation, with its refined 2.0T and more complex electronics, often uses more sophisticated mounts, which can be slightly more expensive.

For newer B9 A4s serviced at current rates, owners can expect:

• Parts (pair of mounts): about $400–$700, often OEM to maintain warranty or NVH standards.
• Labor: roughly 3–4 hours, translating to $450–$800 depending on dealer vs independent shop.
• Total typical: about $1,000–$1,300+, especially at dealerships.

Given the relative youth of B9 models, mount failures are less common but not unheard of on high-mileage or heavily driven examples; when they do occur, many owners stay with OEM for consistency and resale value.

Signs Your Audi A4 Motor Mounts May Need Replacement

Deciding whether to spend $800–$1,000 on a repair can be easier if the symptoms clearly point to worn or failed mounts.

Common warning signs of failing motor mounts on an Audi A4 include:

• Increased vibration at idle: noticeable shaking through the steering wheel, seat, or pedals, especially in gear at a stop.
• Clunk or thump on acceleration or deceleration: a dull knock when you get on or off the throttle, as the engine shifts more than it should.
• Harshness when shifting: more abrupt or jarring feel during upshifts or downshifts in automatic or dual-clutch transmissions.
• Visible sag or movement: a mechanic may see the engine sitting lower on one side or moving excessively when revved in place.
• Fluid leaks from mount (on hydraulic mounts): evidence of oil-like fluid around the mount body.
• Check engine or mount control codes (on electronic mounts): some modern A4s can log faults related to active mounts or related sensors.

While these symptoms can overlap with other drivetrain issues, a good inspection on a lift usually confirms whether the mounts are the primary culprit and helps justify the cost of replacement.

How to Save Money on Audi A4 Motor Mount Replacement

There are several strategies owners can use to control costs without sacrificing reliability or safety.

Typical money-saving approaches include:

• Get multiple quotes: compare a dealer, an independent European specialist, and a general repair shop with Audi experience; differences of several hundred dollars are common.
• Use quality aftermarket mounts: reputable brands can be 20–40% cheaper than OEM with similar longevity, especially for older A4s.
• Bundle related work: combining mounts with other under-car or front-end work (like control arms or subframe bushings) can reduce duplicated labor.
• Avoid the very cheapest parts: ultra-low-cost mounts may fail early or cause increased vibration, leading to rework and higher long-term expense.
• Consider DIY only if highly experienced: the job requires safely supporting the engine and working in confined spaces; for most owners, professional labor is the safer and ultimately more cost-effective route.

Balancing part quality with labor rates and timing other maintenance around the same visit is often the best way to keep the final bill in check.

Is Motor Mount Replacement Worth It for an Older A4?

For aging Audi A4s, owners sometimes question whether a four-figure repair is wise compared to the market value of the car.

Factors to weigh when deciding include:

• Overall condition: if the car is otherwise sound (no major engine, transmission, or rust issues), fresh mounts can significantly improve comfort and drivability.
• How long you plan to keep it: if you intend to drive the A4 for a few more years, the cost spread over that time can be reasonable.
• Safety and collateral damage: very loose mounts can stress exhaust components, axles, and even wiring; fixing them can prevent more expensive repairs later.
• Resale value and perception: a smoother, quieter A4 is easier to sell and signals better overall maintenance.

For many owners, especially of B8-generation cars in good shape, motor mount replacement is seen less as a sunk cost and more as part of keeping a well-engineered car enjoyable to drive.

Summary

Replacing motor mounts on an Audi A4 in 2024 generally costs $600–$1,300, with most drivers paying around $800–$1,000 for both primary engine mounts at an independent European shop. Parts typically run $250–$700 for a pair, depending on OEM vs aftermarket and mount design, while labor commonly adds $300–$800 based on a 2.5–4.0-hour job at current shop rates. Prices vary by A4 generation and region, but increased vibration, clunks under acceleration, and harsh shifts are clear signs it may be time for replacement. With careful choice of shop and parts, owners can control costs while restoring the smoothness and refinement Audi A4s are known for.