Why You Should Replace the Engine Mounts in Your MX5

When we think about performance upgrades for the Mazda MX5, our minds often leap straight to suspension kits, induction systems, or maybe a cheeky exhaust mod. But there’s one unsung hero that doesn’t get as much attention as it should, the engine mounts.

Now, we get it. Engine mounts aren’t flashy. They won’t win you likes on Instagram or make your mates at the next meet crowd around your bonnet. But if you're chasing sharper handling, smoother performance, or even just a more refined drive, upgrading your MX5’s engine mounts could be one of the smartest decisions you make.

Here’s why.

What Do Engine Mounts Actually Do?

Let’s start with the basics. Engine mounts are the components that secure your engine (and often the gearbox too) to your MX5’s chassis. They’re usually made from rubber and metal, designed to do two main jobs:

1. Hold the engine in place
2. Absorb vibrations and movement

The rubber helps reduce vibrations from the engine, so your cabin doesn’t feel like a massage chair every time you hit the throttle. At the same time, the mounts need to be strong enough to keep the engine steady under hard acceleration, cornering, or braking.

Why MX5 Owners Should Pay Attention to Engine Mounts

The MX5 is a light, agile sports car with a reputation for brilliant balance and driver feedback. But old or worn engine mounts can gradually dull that connection between you and the car.

Here’s how.

1. You Might Be Losing Performance Without Realising It

As rubber mounts age, they degrade. Cracks form, they go soft, and over time they allow more engine movement than they should. This means some of the energy from your throttle input is wasted on twisting and rocking the engine, rather than sending power straight to the rear wheels.

That ‘soft’ feeling when you pull away or shift gear under load? Often, that’s tired engine mounts.

2. Sharper Gear Changes

Especially for those driving a manual MX5 if your gear shifts feel vague or notchy, worn engine mounts could be to blame. Excess movement in the engine and gearbox can misalign components ever so slightly under load. Replacing or upgrading mounts helps keep everything lined up as it should be.

3. Reduced Cabin Vibration (or a Controlled Increase)

Worn mounts can let in more vibration than you’d like, buzzing through the gear stick, steering wheel or pedals. On the flip side, some enthusiasts actually want more engine feel and install stiffer mounts to dial up the driver feedback. Either way, replacing engine mounts gives you control over the character of your car.

4. Better Handling and Stability

This might sound dramatic, but it’s true, engine movement affects the car’s balance. When the engine rocks under cornering, it shifts weight unexpectedly. In a finely balanced car like the MX5, even small shifts can affect the feel mid-corner. Fitting firmer mounts helps keep the centre of gravity more stable and the handling more predictable.

When Should You Replace Your Engine Mounts?

There’s no set mileage at which engine mounts need replacing, it depends on how you drive, where you drive, and even how often the car is used. But as a general guide:

• 60,000+ miles: worth inspecting if not already replaced
• Noticeable engine movement or vibration: check sooner
• Track use or spirited driving: consider upgrading earlier

A common sign of a worn mount is clunking or knocking when you accelerate or decelerate suddenly. If you can rock the engine by hand (with the car off, obviously), it’s likely time for a replacement.

OEM vs Upgraded Engine Mounts

Once you’ve decided to replace your mounts, the next question is whether to stick with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) mounts or upgrade to performance alternatives.

Here’s a quick comparison:

We stock both OEM replacements and upgraded options like polyurethane mounts or stiffer rubber compounds, giving you flexibility depending on how you use your MX5.

If your car is mainly a daily driver, OEM replacements or mildly uprated mounts are ideal. If you track your car, enjoy spirited B-road drives, or just want a more connected feel, stiffer mounts are well worth considering.

DIY or Mechanic Job?

Replacing engine mounts on an MX-5 isn’t the most difficult job in the world, but it’s not the easiest either. The process involves supporting the engine from underneath, unbolting the mounts, and carefully installing the new ones. Access can be tight, depending on the generation of your MX5.

If you’re handy with a spanner and have an engine support bar or jack, it’s a doable driveway job. But if you’re unsure, a good local garage will have it done in no time.

A Small Upgrade with a Big Impact

In the grand scheme of performance parts, engine mounts might not seem like the most glamorous upgrade, but they punch well above their weight. Whether you’re restoring the factory feel of your classic NA or refining the driving dynamics of your ND, replacing tired engine mounts can transform your MX-5’s responsiveness and enjoyment.

And best of all? It’s relatively affordable and doesn’t require a full strip-down to get done.

Wwe carry a full range of engine mounts for all generations of the MX5, from standard replacements to uprated performance options. If you’re not sure which mounts are right for your car or how they’ll affect your driving experience, our team is always happy to help.

Ready to Upgrade?

Your MX5 was designed to be a joy to drive, light, nimble, and responsive. If you’ve started to feel a little disconnected from your car, or you just want to sharpen things up a bit, don’t overlook the humble engine mount.

It’s a small change that can make a big difference.

To view all engine mounts click here