What Are Some Common Causes Behind Engine Mount Active Damping System Failure in European Cars

Often, European cars come equipped with highly advanced systems that help in the smooth running and better performance of these cars. The active damping engine mounts are one such component in your European vehicle, which is responsible for resisting engine vibrations, and ensuring a smoother and quieter ride.

In fact, the engine mount active damping system is completely different from the traditional rubber mounts, as they actively curb engine vibrations in your high-end European car. The failure of these systems can adversely affect the running of your car. Let us have a look at the common causes behind engine mount active damping system failure in European cars.

Contaminated or Leaking Hydraulic Fluid

One of the biggest reasons behind the failure of the engine mount active damping system is related to the condition of the hydraulic fluid in the system. In fact, there are many active engine mount damping systems that are reliant on hydraulic fluid to help provide damping capability to the cars.

Over the years, as your vehicle accumulates miles, the hydraulic fluid can get contaminated due to exposure to heat and age. In fact, the seals within the engine mount can also dry out and develop cracks, leading to leaks. Now, due to the unavailability of an adequate amount of hydraulic fluid, you are going to experience an increase in vibrations and noise from under the hood of your high-end car.

Moreover, there are certain high-end European car manufacturers who rely on specific hydraulic fluid, which makes them prone to degeneration under stressful conditions. That is why inspecting the condition of the hydraulic fluid is extremely important so that remedial measures can be initiated before it takes a turn for the worse.

Wiring Problems & Connector Corrosion

Components like the active engine mount are dependent on electrical signals to control the damping function in the vehicle. In fact, the development of corrosion on the electrical connectors, damaged wires, and wiring harness can play spoilsport with the electrical communication between the active damping system and onboard computers.

Moreover, faulty electrical connections can play spoilsport with the ability of the engine mount to adjust its damping, which will lead to the mount remaining in a fixed state. This often leads to the warning lights getting activated on the dashboard and will disrupt your ride quality.

In addition to that, if your European car is exposed to harsh winter conditions, then it makes the electrical components prone to connector corrosion. At times, the modern wiring harness being used in European cars also increases the chances of wiring damage.

The electronic control unit in your high-end European car also needs to be inspected, as it helps in controlling the functioning of the actuators in the mount, and its failure can lead to problems in the coordination needed for active damping.

Sensor Issues

Of late, modern European cars are coming equipped with a host of sensors that keep a tab on the functioning of the vital components of the vehicle. Now, the active damping system is also dependent on sensors to monitor the vibrations from the engine, the speed of the car, and other parameters.

However, if there are issues with the functioning of these sensors, then they are going to provide you with erroneous data, and the system won’t be able to adjust the damping correctly. Furthermore, the malfunctioning sensors can lead to the system operating with faulty settings, which will result in excess vibrations, noise, and damage to other components.

Damaged Engine Mount

At times, it is seen that physical damage suffered by the engine mount itself can compromise its functioning. There are several instances of active engine mounts getting damaged due to the vehicle coming in contact with potholes, accidents, or improper installation, which can lead to physical damage to the engine mount.

In fact, formation of cracks, tears, or breakage in the mount structure can adversely affect its effectiveness, which will lead to an increase in vibration and noise in your vehicle. Moreover, the lower ride height of some European cars increases the risk of impact to the active engine mount in the vehicle.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the leading reasons behind the engine mount active damping system getting damaged in your European car. The moment you notice anything is wrong in your vehicle, you must get it inspected by a certified mechanic immediately.

Autohaus Service And Sales is a leading independent auto repair & service facility located in Royal Oak, MI having years of experience in looking after the needs of European luxury cars like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini, Porsche, and Volkswagen.