Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Engine mount

1998 Subaru Forester engine-mount — what it does and when to replace it

Technical references confirm the 1998 Subaru Forester absolutely uses engine mounts. The Subaru Forester (SF) Factory Service Manual (engine/EM section) illustrates the left and right engine mounting insulators on the front crossmember, and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue lists these mounts as service parts for the SF-chassis Forester. Gregory’s/Max Ellery repair guides covering 1997–2002 Forester models also show inspection and replacement procedures. So, engine mounts are very much relevant and fitted on the 1998 Forester.

On this model’s EJ-series engine, the mounts secure the engine to the front crossmember, control how much the engine can twist under throttle, and isolate vibrations from the cabin. Good mounts keep driveline angles happy, protect the exhaust flex and CV joints, and make the car feel tight and quiet. When the rubber ages, hardens, or separates—often sped up by oil leaks from rocker covers—vibes creep in and clunks show up on take-off or when shifting.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the mounts while the car’s on a hoist. Look for collapsed rubber, cracking, or any oil-soaked, mushy areas. Under light pry-bar pressure, excess movement is a giveaway. It’s worth checking the transmission mount and the upper pitch-stop (the “dog bone” under the bonnet near the firewall) at the same time, because all three work together to keep the powertrain stable.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro and doable for confident DIYers. Support the engine safely with an engine support bar or a jack and timber block under the sump, then swap the mounts one side at a time. Always use factory torque specs from the service manual, and consider replacing mounts as a pair. After installation, recheck clearances around the exhaust and radiator fans, and re-torque after a few heat cycles if recommended by the mount supplier.

Quality OE or reputable aftermarket rubber mounts suit most Aussie and Kiwi daily drivers, solid or race-style mounts will add vibration you probably don’t want. In local conditions, original mounts commonly last well past 150,000 km, but age, heat, and oil contamination are the big deciders—inspection every service keeps surprises at bay.

• Typical symptoms: harsh idle vibration, thud on take-off, shudder on gear changes, visible engine rocking, or metallic knock under load.
• Pro tip: fix oil leaks first—fresh mounts live longer when they’re not bathing in oil.

Popular questions about 1998 Subaru Forester engine-mounts

How can someone tell if the engine mounts are worn on a 1998 Forester?

Common signs include a rougher idle felt through the seats or steering wheel, a clunk when selecting drive or taking off, and more engine movement than normal when blipping the throttle. Visual checks may show cracked or collapsed rubber, or shiny metal where the mount has bottomed out.

If unsure, a technician can load the engine in gear (with brakes applied) and watch for excessive rock, then confirm with a pry-bar inspection on a hoist.

Should both engine mounts be replaced at the same time?

Yes, it’s generally best practice. The mounts age together, and a fresh mount opposite a tired one can create uneven support and new vibrations. Many workshops also inspect the transmission mount and pitch-stop at the same visit to keep the whole package balanced.

Is it safe to keep driving with a failed engine mount?

Short-term driving might be possible, but it risks extra wear on the exhaust, CVs, and even radiator hoses due to excess movement. If there’s loud knocking or visible engine shift, it’s wise to park it until repaired.