'Watch This:' Mechanics Can’t Believe What Happens When Car’s Engine Literally Jumps. What’s Wrong With It?

When working at an auto repair shop, mechanics will deal with customers bringing in a variety of problems through the door, and they never know what’s coming that day. This particular problem with a customer's Honda engine left mechanics surprised and had them questioning what on Earth just happened. 

In a TikTok that has generated over 1.7 million views as of this writing, content creator @jaiisdope showcases how a customer's engine lifts when starting.

“Customer says they always hear the engine moving when accelerating,” the TikToker captions.

With the hood up, the mechanics gathered around the engine and watched closely. 

“Watch this,” one mechanic shares. 

When the gas pedal is pressed, the engine visibly jerks up and to the side. “This comes completely out,” one mechanic says.

After seeing the engine jump, the group of mechanics was stumped and had a hard time processing what had just happened. 

“Car got a heartbeat,” one TikTok commenter said.

“That’s why you gotta just keep the hood down. Keep it on in there,” another suggested. 

“Customer states: my engine is possessed," a third added.

This type of issue doesn’t roll through the doors every day, so the reaction from the crew is valid. The group begins to examine the potential issue and get to work. 

Why Would an Engine Lift When it Starts?

This issue was discussed by another Honda driver on Reddit. Car enthusiasts in the thread collectively agreed that the engine mounts are the issue. 

Engine mounts are what keep the engine intact and are part of the chassis, J.D. Power reports. These mounts help decrease noise, lower vibrations, and offer stable support to the engine. 

Metal rods connect the engine and the transmission together. These rods will transfer the motion to the engine mount when the engine vibrates. The engine mounts will absorb the vibrations, leading to a smoother ride. 

Engine mounts also minimize the amount of noise drivers hear. Without them, the vibration in the engine becomes excessive, which will cause a loud and bumpy ride.

Still, car engines will always move a little due to their torque, according to one expert on Reddit. 

However, if the engine moves excessively, it is likely that the engine mounts need to be checked out. 

When Do You Need to Replace Engine Mounts?

Typically, engine mounts will last between five to seven years before wearing out, J.D. Power shares. According to GMT Rubber, here are five signs your engine mounts need to be replaced: 

• Increased Vibrations: Worn-down engine mounts will lead to more vibration through the car. When damaged, the anti-vibration properties weaken, and long-term engine damage can occur. 
• Bumpier Ride: If engine mounts are damaged, the car will jolt when a driver attempts to switch gears. This can typically be felt when accelerating or driving fast. 
• Rocky Start-Up: Damaged engine mounts can cause abnormal sounds or excessive lurching. This lurch often steadies into a constant vibration and can also happen when turning off the ignition. 
• Visible Wear: The metal part of the engine mount may change in color. Additionally, any corrosion, cracks, or warps in the mount will likely mean the whole thing is worn down. 
• Impact Noises: A worn-down engine mount will no longer absorb the loud bangs and chanks inside the engine bay. Without proper engine mounts, the engine hits other car parts, causing these loud noises. 

Motor1 has contacted @jaiisdope via TikTok direct message. The story will be updated if he replies.