Went to a trusted independent car mechanic for new front brake pads + rotors and after replacing he mentioned that my front engine mount is broken and needs replacement, quoted 370 - Boston area. When I got home I felt it and looked with a flashlight but didn't see any obvious cracks. Does this part fail in a typical way that I can see to confirm his diagnosis?

Also, on-line prices for OEM part is about 50 bucks. I've replaced my radiator, cleaned out the EGR valve, changed coolant, power steering fluid, and tranny fluid. Is this a job within that skill level?

This is a 1995 4cyl 2.2L with 176K miles. Thanks

anyone?

If you have a jack, it is a relatively easy swap since it literally is right in front...$75 I think from auto parts store with lifetime warrranty. Did he say how he knew? Car vibration? Leaking oil from mount?

There's actually four main mounts: the large front ($$) and rear ($$$) ones, the transmission mount ($$) on driver's side, and the small "dogbone" torque strut mount ($$) on the top, passenger side, attached to the strut mount. If the engine is vibrating harshly, it is usually the dogbone that has failed.

Surprisingly, all are fairly easy to replace if you have a jack to keep the engine supported underneath. The front mount unbolts from under the car. Just basic tools needed, but buy/borrow a torque wrench to make sure you get the new one torqued right.

Good luck!