Engine mounts (power unit mounts) on Škoda Kodiaq - these are critical elements that dampen vibrations and prevent the transfer of vibrations from the engine to the body. Over time, rubber or hydraulic mounts wear out, resulting in increased shaking, knocking and even the risk of damage to other components. Owners Kodiaq with petrol 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TSI or diesel 2.0 TDI engines encounter this problem especially often after 100–150 thousand kilometers.
In this article, we will look at how to independently diagnose the malfunction of the pillows, what symptoms indicate their wear, and how to choose the right replacement parts. We will also provide step-by-step instructions with nuances for Kodiaq different generations (including the 2021 facelift) and we’ll tell you why saving on cheap analogues can result in repeated repairs after 20 thousand km.
Signs of faulty engine mounts Škoda Kodiaq
The first signals of problems with supports often go unnoticed, since vibrations are attributed to poor road quality or wear of the chassis. However there is key symptoms, which directly indicate a faulty airbag:
- 🔊 Metallic knock in the front of the car when starting or braking (especially noticeable on a cold engine).
- 🚗 Vibrations on the steering wheel and the body when the engine is idling, which increases with increasing load (for example, when the air conditioner is turned on).
- 🔧 Motor "bouncing" when suddenly releasing gas or changing gears (visible when the hood is open).
- 🛣️ Impacts to the transmission when overcoming bumps, it’s as if the engine is “beating” against the subframe.
On Kodiaq with DSG-7 faulty airbags can simulate transmission problems: jerks when changing gears or delays at start. To exclude a diagnostic error, check the supports visually: cracks in the rubber, tears or traces of oil (on hydraulic cushions) are a sure sign for replacement.
⚠️ Attention! If you ignore the wear of the cushions, vibrations can lead to damage to the cooling system pipes, electrical wiring, or even cracks in the subframe. On Kodiaq with all-wheel drive (4×4) the risk is higher due to the increased mass of the power unit.
- Every 20 thousand km
- Only when symptoms appear
- Never checked
- I only trust service stations
What pillows are on Škoda Kodiaq: types and location
On Kodiaq (including restyled versions) are installed 3 or 4 supports depending on engine and gearbox type:
- Right pillow (passenger side) - the most loaded, often the first to fail. On
2.0 TDImay be hydraulic. - Left pillow (driver's side) - usually rubber-metal, less often requires replacement.
- Rear support (at the gearbox) - found on models with
DSGor all-wheel drive. - Top cushion (on some versions with
1.5 TSI) - attached to the mudguard cup.
On diesel Kodiaq (2.0 TDI CR) are often installed hydraulic supports with a liquid damper - they dampen vibrations more effectively, but are more expensive to replace. Petrol versions (1.5/2.0 TSI) are usually equipped with rubber-metal cushions, which are cheaper but last less (80–120 thousand km).
| Engine type | Number of supports | Pillow type | Average resource, thousand km |
|---|---|---|---|
1.5 TSI (150 hp) |
3 | Rubber-metal | 90–110 |
2.0 TSI (190/245 hp) |
4 | Rubber-metal + hydraulic (rear) | 100–130 |
2.0 TDI (150/190/240 hp) |
4 | Hydraulic (front) + rubber-metal | 120–150 |
On Kodiaq with all-wheel drive (4×4 Haldex) the rear gearbox cushion experiences increased loads due to the transmission of torque to the rear axle. It is recommended to check it every 30 thousand km.
How to check engine mounts for Škoda Kodiaq on your own
Diagnostics of supports can be carried out without a lift, but for accuracy it is better to use an inspection pit or overpass. Here step-by-step algorithm:
Visual inspection for cracks and tears in rubber
Checking the play of the supports with a pry bar (for the right and left cushions)
Test for engine “bouncing” during hard gas/braking
Checking hydraulic cushions for oil leaks
Checking support fastenings for corrosion or loose bolts -->
1. Visual inspection:
Open the hood and inspect the rubber parts of the cushions. Cracks, peeling or swelling are signs of wear. Check the hydraulic bearings for oil leaks. Please note right pillow — it often suffers due to the load from the generator and air conditioner.
2. Checking the backlash:
Take a pry bar and try to move the engine up and down through the mount. If the play exceeds 1–2 mm, the pillow requires replacement. On Kodiaq with DSG Also check the rear gearbox support - its play can simulate problems with the gearbox.
3. Dynamic test:
Start the engine, open the hood and watch the engine at idle speed. If it noticeably "walks" or jumps when the gas is applied sharply, the mounts are worn out. On diesel versions (2.0 TDI) vibrations can be transmitted to the body even with working airbags - this is a feature of the engine.
What to do if the pillow leaks?
Hydraulic supports on Kodiaq with 2.0 TDI may lose their tightness due to wear of the seals. If you find traces of oil, replace the cushion urgently - the liquid from the damper loses its properties and the support ceases to dampen vibrations. A temporary solution may be to add special oil (for example, Febi 32610), but this will extend the life of the pillow by a maximum of 10–15 thousand km.
Selection of spare parts: original vs analogues for Škoda Kodiaq
When replacing pillows, owners Kodiaq are faced with a dilemma: to buy original spare parts or analogues. Original supports from Skoda/VW (see article numbers below) guarantee compatibility, but their price can be steep. Analogues from Febi, Lemforder or Sasic cheaper, but quality varies.
Recommended analog manufacturers:
- 🔧 Febi (Germany) - optimal price/quality ratio, suitable for
1.5/2.0 TSI. - 🔧 Lemforder (Germany) - premium segment, often used at service stations as an alternative to the original.
- 🔧 Sasic (Poland) - a budget option, but the resource is 20–30% lower.
- 🔧 TRW - good for hydraulic cushions on diesel engines Kodiaq.
| Position | Original article | Analogues (manufacturer + article) | Approximate price, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right airbag (1.5/2.0 TSI) | 5Q0 199 603 D |
Febi 32606, Lemforder 37206 01 | 3 500–7 000 |
| Left airbag (2.0 TDI) | 5Q0 199 604 D |
TRW JTM737, Sasic 1003018 | 4 000–8 500 |
| Rear gearbox support (DSG) | 0CQ 199 621 A |
Febi 32610, Lemforder 37208 01 | 5 000–11 000 |
⚠️ Attention! On Kodiaq with 2.0 TDI (240 hp) reinforced hydraulic cushions are installed. Installing rubber-metal analogues will lead to increased vibrations and the risk of damage to the subframe.
When purchasing analogues, check for a certificate of conformity ISO 9001 or TUV. Cheap airbags without markings are often made of low-quality rubber, which cracks after 10–20 thousand km.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing pillows with Škoda Kodiaq
Replacing supports with Kodiaq requires a lift or inspection hole, as well as a set of tools: 16, 18 sockets, socket wrenches, a pry bar and a jack to support the engine. Work order (using the example of the right pillow):
1. Preparation:
Place the car on a lift, remove the engine protection (6 x 10 bolts). Support the motor with a jack through a wooden spacer (so as not to damage the pan). Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Removing an old pillow:
Loosen the bolts securing the cushion to the engine and subframe (usually 3 bolts to 16). Raise the engine 2–3 cm with a jack to remove the load from the mount. Unscrew the bolts completely and remove the cushion. Clean the seats from dirt.
3. Installation of a new support:
Before installation, compare the new pillow with the old one - they should match in shape and fastenings. Reinstall the support, tighten the bolts and slowly lower the engine. Tighten the bolts to torque 50–60 Nm (for Kodiaq with 2.0 TDI — 70 Nm).
4. Check:
Start the engine and check for vibrations. Press the gas sharply - the engine should not “bounce”. If necessary, tighten the fastenings after 100 km.
On Kodiaq with all-wheel drive (4×4) it is more convenient to change the rear gearbox cushion by removing the driveshaft. If you have little experience, entrust this work to a service station - errors during assembly can lead to transmission imbalance.
How much does it cost to replace pillows? Škoda Kodiaq in service
The cost of work depends on the type of supports and region. On average prices are as follows:
- 💰 Replacement one pillow (rubber-metal) - 1,500–2,500 rubles.
- 💰 Replacement hydraulic support — 2,500–4,000 rub. (requires draining oil from damper).
- 💰 Complex replacement all supports — 8,000–15,000 rub. (including diagnostics).
On Kodiaq with DSG or 4×4 the price may increase by 20-30% due to the difficulty of accessing the rear support. In Moscow services, the average bill for replacing a set of pillows (4 pieces) with spare parts costs 25,000–40,000 rub.
There is no point in saving on work: improper tightening of the bolts or misalignment of the support will lead to repeated repairs. For example, on owner forums Kodiaq There are cases when, after a makeshift replacement, the subframe brackets broke - the repair cost 50+ thousand rubles.
Common mistakes when replacing pillows Škoda Kodiaq
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that reduce the life of new supports. That's it can't do:
- 🔧 Use an air impact wrench for tightening bolts - this leads to thread breakage or overtightening.
- 🔧 Do not support the engine with a jack - the supports may become deformed during installation.
- 🔧 Ignore fastening check subframe - corrosion or loose bolts accelerate wear of the cushions.
- 🔧 Install airbags from other VW models (for example, from Tiguan) - they may not fit the fastenings.
On Kodiaq with engine 2.0 TDI (190 hp) The right pillow has a unique mounting shape. Attempt to install an analog from Passat B8 will lead to misalignment and increased vibrations.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about pillows Škoda Kodiaq
Is it possible to drive with a faulty airbag?
Short term - yes, but risky. Vibrations accelerate wear on the transmission, pipes and electrical wiring. On Kodiaq with DSG this may cause the box to malfunction. We recommend replacing the supports within 1-2 weeks after the fault is discovered.
How often should you change pillows? Kodiaq?
Service life depends on driving style and operating conditions:
- Rubber-metal - every 100–120 thousand km.
- Hydraulic - 150–180 thousand km (but check every 30 thousand km).
On vehicles with 4×4 or frequent off-road trips, the resource is reduced by 20–30%.
Is it possible to restore the hydraulic cushion?
Theoretically, yes - some services offer a rebuild with replacing seals and adding oil. However, this is a temporary solution (maximum 20 thousand km), since the rubber elements are already worn out. For Kodiaq with 2.0 TDI It’s better to install a new support right away.
Which pillows are better - original or Febi?
Original supports (arts.VW/Skoda) last longer, but are 30–50% more expensive. Febi - a worthy alternative: their pillows for Kodiaq are manufactured in the same factories as the originals, but under a different brand. If your budget is limited, choose Febi or Lemforder.
Is it necessary to do a wheel alignment after replacement?
No, replacing the airbags does not affect the wheel alignment angles. However, if the subframe or suspension arms were removed during repairs, a wheel alignment is required. On Kodiaq with 4×4 After working on the transmission, it is also recommended to check the balancing of the driveshaft.