rubber engine mount

My mechanic told me that the rubber engine mounts on my 2001 Civic need
to be replaced. He said that they seem to be a common issue for that
generation.

Can I see the rubber to confirm? Or is it hidden from view?

 

At least three will be easy to see. The rear one may be very difficult
without lying on the engine and peering down between engine and firewall
with a flashlight.

What you do is have somebody sit in the car, and start it. MAKE SURE THE
PARKING BRAKE IS ON AND THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. Now, with the
observer lying atop the engine and peering down as described, put the
transmission in Drive, then into Reverse. Watch the action of the rear
mount. The others may be observed with the observer standing normally.

What you're looking for is excessive flex in the mounts. Cracks may not be
visible until the mounts have flexed.

The above procedure can also be performed with a manual transmission car by
slipping the clutch just enough to load the mounts.

 

thanks very much!