Parts for your 2007 Toyota Highlander-Engine mount

2007 Toyota Highlander (Kluger) engine mount: purpose, care and when to replace

Engine mounts are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2007 Toyota Highlander (known as Kluger in Australia and New Zealand). Technical sources including the Toyota Repair Manual for the 2001–2007 Highlander/Kluger (Engine Mechanical – Engine Mounting section) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (models ACU20/MCU23/MCU28) list multiple engine mounting insulators and brackets. These documents show right and left side mounts plus front and rear torque mounts that tie the engine and transaxle to the subframe.

On this Highlander, the mounts do two key jobs. First, they hold the engine and transaxle precisely in place so driveline angles stay sweet and everything from the exhaust flex to the CV joints isn’t stressed. Second, they isolate vibration. Most mounts on this model are rubber-hydraulic designs that soak up the buzz you’d otherwise feel through the steering wheel and seats.

Because they cop torque on take-off and loads over every bump, mounts slowly wear. When they start to give up, the Highlander can feel a bit harsh at idle in Drive, thud on gear changes, or shudder when backing off and reapplying throttle. Sometimes there’s visible cracking, a collapsed height, or even oily residue from a leaking hydraulic mount.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in Toyota’s schedule, but it’s smart to have them inspected at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 kilometres or annually). A quick check under the bonnet while the engine is idling, a controlled throttle blip, and a look for torn rubber or fluid weep goes a long way. If one mount is obviously failed, it’s worth assessing the others—particularly the opposing torque mount—so the fresh part isn’t immediately overloaded.

When replacing, support the powertrain properly (don’t jack on the sump) and only final-tighten the mount bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height so the rubber isn’t preloaded. Follow the torque specs and sequence in the Toyota Repair Manual. OE or quality aftermarket hydraulic mounts will keep the Highlander’s family-friendly smoothness, solid or “race” mounts aren’t ideal for daily use. After fitment, a short road test to confirm idle quality and to check for any new noises is the go. Alignment isn’t usually affected, but a quick visual on axles, exhaust clearance and hoses is good practice.

How many engine mounts does a 2007 Toyota Highlander/Kluger have?

Typically four: right (engine side), left (transaxle side), plus front and rear torque mounts. Exact hardware can vary slightly between the 2.4L 4‑cylinder and 3.3L V6 and by 2WD vs AWD, but the layout and function are the same.

What are the common symptoms of a worn engine mount on this model?

Excess cabin vibration at idle in Drive, a clunk on take-off or when shifting, shudder on throttle changes, and visible tears or fluid leakage from a hydraulic mount. Excessive engine rock when blipping the throttle is another giveaway.

Is it OK to keep driving with a bad mount, and what might replacement cost in AU/NZ?

Short-term driving is usually possible, but it can stress exhaust flex joints, hoses and CVs, and it’s unpleasant. Parts and labour vary widely, but a single mount often lands in the few-hundred-dollar range fitted, more for the V6 or hard-to-reach mounts. Replacing more than one at once can save labour.