Parts for your 2016 Holden Barina-Engine mount

2016 Holden Barina engine mount — what it does and when to replace it

Engine mounts absolutely apply to the 2016 Holden Barina (TM series). OEM workshop information and parts catalogues for the TM Barina (sold globally as the Chevrolet Sonic/Aveo T300) list multiple mounts for the engine and transmission. Holden/GM service manuals detail engine mounting and replacement procedures, and Australian/NZ parts catalogues routinely stock the upper right engine mount, left transmission mount, and the lower torque/“dogbone” mount for this model. So, yep — the Barina is fitted with engine mounts and they’re a normal service item when worn.

On the Barina, the engine mounts do three big jobs: hold the engine and transaxle in the correct position, absorb vibration before it reaches the cabin, and control engine movement under throttle and braking. When healthy, they keep the driveline aligned, protect the exhaust and hoses from stress, and make the car feel smooth and tight around town.

As part of regular servicing, a quick visual and physical check is smart. Look for perished or cracked rubber, torn bonding, collapsed mount height, or tell-tale fluid seepage on hydraulic-style mounts. Pay attention to symptoms the driver might report:

• Noticeable vibration at idle or when the air-con kicks in
• Clunks on take-off or when shifting from Reverse to Drive (auto) or during sharp on/off throttle (manual)
• Excessive engine movement, shudder, or knocking against the subframe

If replacement’s needed, it’s best practice to support the engine with a proper support bar or a jack and a timber block under the sump (never metal-to-metal). Do one mount at a time, loosely fit all fasteners first, then torque to spec with the engine settled in its neutral position. Some fasteners are torque-to-yield and should be replaced, check the workshop manual notes. Using quality OEM or reputable aftermarket mounts keeps NVH in check.

There isn’t a fixed interval — many Barinas get 80,000 to 150,000+ km from mounts, but heat, road shocks, and oil contamination can shorten life. After fitting, a quick road test for idle smoothness and take-off clunks is worth it, and re-checking torque after a few drives isn’t a bad idea. Keeping mounts in good nick preserves CV joints, exhaust flexes, and the overall refinement the Barina should have.

• How many engine mounts does a 2016 Holden Barina have?
  The TM Barina typically uses three primary mounts: a right-hand (engine side) mount, a left-hand (transmission side) mount, and a lower torque/“dogbone” mount. Brackets and stays complement these to control twist and vibration.
• How long do Barina engine mounts last and what do they cost?
  Many last 80,000–150,000 km or more. In Australia/NZ, budget roughly AU$80–$250 per mount for quality aftermarket, with OEM higher. Labour is often 1–2 hours per mount depending on which one and workshop rates.
• Is it safe to drive with a failed engine mount?
  It’ll usually move, but it’s not recommended. Excess movement can stress the exhaust, hoses, and CV joints, and you’ll cop more vibration. Sort it sooner rather than later to avoid collateral damage.