Upgrading Your 2008 WRX Transmission Mount: Benefits and Installation Tips

The transmission mount on your 2008 WRX is a crucial component that absorbs vibrations from the engine and transmission, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride; Over time, this mount can wear out, resulting in excessive noise, vibration, and even transmission damage․ Upgrading to a performance transmission mount can significantly enhance your driving experience and protect your vehicle․

Benefits of Upgrading Your WRX Transmission Mount

• Reduced Noise and Vibration⁚ A worn-out mount can cause annoying engine and transmission noises, especially at idle or during acceleration․ A performance mount is designed to dampen these vibrations, resulting in a quieter and more refined driving experience․
• Improved Shift Feel⁚ A tighter mount provides a more direct connection between the transmission and the chassis, enhancing the shift feel and making it more precise․ This can be particularly noticeable when shifting gears aggressively․
• Increased Durability⁚ Performance mounts are often made from higher-quality materials and are designed to withstand higher stress levels, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to the stock mount․
• Enhanced Performance⁚ By reducing transmission movement, a performance mount helps to improve power transfer to the wheels, resulting in a more responsive and engaging driving experience․

Installation Tips

Replacing your WRX transmission mount is a relatively straightforward DIY project, but it’s important to follow these tips⁚

1․ Gather the Necessary Tools

• Jack and jack stands
• Torque wrench
• Breaker bar
• Sockets
• Wrench
• Pliers
• New transmission mount

2․ Preparation

1. Park your WRX on a level surface and engage the parking brake․
2. Chock the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling․
3. Use the jack to lift the car and secure it on jack stands, ensuring the car is stable․

3․ Removal of the Old Mount

1. Locate the transmission mount, which is typically found between the transmission and the subframe․
2. Use a breaker bar and socket to loosen the mounting bolts․ You may need to use a penetrating fluid to help break loose any seized bolts․
3. Once the bolts are loosened, carefully remove the old mount․

4․ Installation of the New Mount

1. Align the new mount with the mounting points on the transmission and subframe․
2. Start the mounting bolts by hand, ensuring the mount is properly seated․
3. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications․

5․ Final Checks

1. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands․
2. Start the engine and check for any unusual noises or vibrations․
3. Perform a test drive to ensure the new mount is functioning properly․

Conclusion

Upgrading your 2008 WRX transmission mount offers numerous benefits, including reduced noise, improved shift feel, increased durability, and enhanced performance․ By following these installation tips, you can easily replace the old mount yourself and enjoy a more refined and engaging driving experience․ Remember to always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your vehicle․