A Ford Focus Owner's Guide to Replacing the 2013-2018 Engine Mount
If your Ford Focus is vibrating or making clunking noises, a bad engine mount is the most likely cause.
- The passenger-side hydraulic engine mount is a very common failure item on 2013-2018 Focus models.
- Severe vibration at idle and clunking noises when shifting are the primary symptoms of a bad mount.
- Visually inspect the passenger-side mount; if the rubber is touching the metal bracket below, it has failed.
- Be cautious with budget aftermarket brands, as many owners report they cause more vibration than the original part.
Is Your Ford Focus Shaking at Idle?
A common problem for the 2013-2018 Ford Focus is the failure of the passenger-side engine mount. This specific mount is hydraulic (fluid-filled) and is known to wear out and collapse, sometimes with very low mileage. When it fails, you'll feel it. The most reported symptom is an intense vibration felt in the steering wheel, seats, and throughout the cabin, especially when the car is stopped at a light with the transmission in Drive. Many owners describe it as feeling like the engine is running rough, even when it's perfectly fine.
Top 3 Symptoms of a Bad Focus Engine Mount:
- Excessive Vibration: A strong vibration or a "go-kart" feeling when idling is the number one sign. You can often diagnose this yourself. 🎬 Watch: This easy check helps you identify a bad mount. With the engine running and the car in park, carefully have someone watch the engine while you shift into Drive and then Reverse. If the engine jerks or moves excessively, a mount is likely bad.
- Clunking or Thudding Noises: Loud clunks when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift gears are a clear indicator of a failed mount allowing too much engine movement.
- Visible Failure: The passenger-side mount is easy to inspect. When new, there is a noticeable gap between the rubber part of the mount and the metal bracket it sits in. A failed mount will have collapsed, and the rubber will be touching or nearly touching the metal bracket below it. Sometimes, you can see fluid that has leaked out from the blown mount.
Known Issue: The Passenger-Side Mount
The passenger-side (right-hand) engine mount is the most frequent failure point on this generation of Ford Focus. It is a fluid-filled hydraulic design that often collapses. While the other two mounts (transmission and rear torque strut) can also fail, they are typically made of solid rubber and last longer. If you have vibration symptoms, inspect the passenger-side mount first.
Choosing an Aftermarket Engine Mount: Honesty About Quality
When shopping for a new engine mount, you'll find original Ford parts (OEM) and several aftermarket brands. For many parts, aftermarket quality is just as good as OEM. However, for the Ford Focus engine mount, owner experiences tell a different story.
Many owners and mechanics report that budget-friendly aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar can cause more vibration than the worn-out original part and may not last long. Forum discussions are filled with reports of these mounts failing quickly, sometimes within a year. While their low price is tempting, you may end up doing the job twice.
The original Ford mount is known to fail, but it often provides better vibration damping than cheap aftermarket options before it does. Among the budget brands, Pioneer has been mentioned as having a fit and finish closer to the factory part.
Brand Tiers for Your Focus
- Good Tier (Value): Brands like Pioneer may offer a balance of affordability and function, though longevity can still be a concern compared to OEM.
- Budget Tier (Economy): Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are the most affordable. Be aware that many users report increased cabin vibration and a shorter lifespan with these parts. They can be a solution to fix a completely broken mount on a tight budget, but manage your expectations for smoothness.
How Much Does a Ford Focus Engine Mount Replacement Cost?
The cost depends on whether you do it yourself or use a repair shop. Replacing the passenger-side mount is a job many DIYers can handle in about an hour.
🎬 See this step-by-step guide to replacing the passenger-side mount.| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount | $29 - $204 |
| New OEM Ford Mount | $86 - $123 |
| Shop Labor (Passenger-Side Mount) | $100 - $200 |
| Total (Shop Repair, Aftermarket Part) | $129 - $404 |
| Total (DIY Repair, Aftermarket Part) | $29 - $204 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of the three engine mounts fails most often on the 2013-2018 Focus?
The passenger-side hydraulic mount is, by far, the most common point of failure. Its fluid-filled design is prone to collapsing, which causes severe vibration. The other two mounts are solid rubber and tend to be more durable.
Are there any recalls for the engine mounts on my Ford Focus?
No. As of early 2026, there are no active recalls from Ford or the NHTSA specifically for engine mount failure on the 2013-2018 Ford Focus. There have been recalls for other issues on these vehicles, but not for the mounts themselves.
I just installed a new aftermarket mount and the vibration is worse. Why?
This is a common complaint with budget-tier aftermarket mounts for the Focus. The rubber compound used may be harder than the original, or the hydraulic design may not be as effective at damping vibration. The original Ford mount, while prone to failure, is often better at providing a smooth feel than cheaper alternatives.
Can I replace just the one broken mount?
Yes. Since the passenger-side mount fails so frequently, it's common to replace only that one. However, if your car has high mileage or you are replacing the passenger mount for a second time, it's a good idea to inspect the other two mounts for cracks or excessive play and replace them as a set if needed.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DV6Z-6038-B AV6Z-6038-A CV6Z-6068-A DV6Z-6068-A
The 2013-2018 Ford Focus uses a three-mount system: a hydraulic passenger-side mount, a rubber transmission mount, and a lower rubber torque strut mount (dogbone). The passenger-side mount is the most common failure.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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