Parts for your 2005 Toyota Highlander-Engine mount

2005 Toyota Highlander (Kluger) engine mount — purpose, checks, and replacement

Technical sources confirm that engine mounts are absolutely used on the 2005 Toyota Highlander (sold as Kluger in Australia and New Zealand). The Toyota service manual and Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog list multiple “engine mounting insulators” and a torque rod/strut for both the 2.4L 2AZ‑FE and 3.3L 3MZ‑FE variants, and general references such as Haynes and Mitchell1 procedures describe supporting the engine and replacing these mounts during service. So, engine mounts are relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

On this Highlander/Kluger, the engine mounts secure the transversely mounted engine and transmission to the subframe while isolating vibration from the cabin. They’re typically a mix of rubber and fluid-filled (hydraulic) insulators plus a torque strut that controls fore–aft movement under acceleration and braking. Their job is to keep the powertrain settled, reduce harshness, and protect surrounding components.

Over time, heat, age, and fluid exposure harden or crack the rubber, and hydraulic mounts can seep their internal fluid. Common signs of a tired mount include:

• Noticeable vibration at idle in Drive
• Clunks, thumps, or a lurch when shifting between Park/Reverse/Drive
• Excessive engine movement under the bonnet on take-off
• Visible tears or fluid leakage from a mount

There’s no strict interval, but a practical approach for a 2005 model is to inspect mounts at regular services, especially past 150,000–200,000 km or around the 10–15 year mark. If one mount has clearly failed, checking the torque strut and the opposite-side mount at the same time helps maintain proper alignment and ride quality.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained technician: support the engine safely from below (or with an engine support bar), remove the mount’s brackets and fasteners, swap the insulator, then torque all hardware to specification. On this Toyota platform, access can vary by mount, the upper torque strut is usually simpler, while side or rear mounts may need extra clearance. Using quality OEM or reputable aftermarket mounts keeps noise and vibration in check. After replacement, a quick road test to confirm idle smoothness and driveline feel is good practice.

Leaving a failed mount in service can stress exhaust flex joints, driveshafts, and ancillary brackets, so timely replacement prevents knock-on costs and keeps the Highlander/Kluger feeling tidy and refined.

Popular questions

How many engine mounts does a 2005 Highlander/Kluger have?
Most models use several mounting insulators plus a torque strut (often called a dog-bone). The exact count and layout depend on engine and drivetrain, but owners can expect left and right side mounts, a rear (or front) mount to the subframe, and a torque rod to control twist.

What are the typical symptoms of a bad engine mount on this model?
Tell-tales include a shaky steering wheel at idle in Drive, a thunk when selecting Reverse or taking off, and visible engine rock under the bonnet. Hydraulic mounts may show dampness where fluid has seeped. Excess vibration through the cabin is the classic giveaway.

Is it safe to keep driving with a worn engine mount?
The vehicle will usually still drive, but it’s not ideal. Extra movement can stress the exhaust, hoses, and CV joints, and may worsen other vibrations. Prompt replacement keeps everything aligned and protects other components from premature wear.