Saturn Relay Engine Mounts: A Guide for 2005-2007 Models
Stop the excessive vibration and clunking noises by choosing the right replacement engine mounts for your van.
- Before replacing the passenger-side mount, check for and fix any oil leaks from above to prevent premature failure of the new part.
- A loud 'clunk' when shifting gears is a classic sign of a completely failed engine or transmission mount.
- Excessive vibration can also be caused by a faulty crankshaft balancer, which was subject to a TSB.
- For an older van, quality aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, or Westar offer a practical and affordable repair solution.
Is Your Saturn Relay Shaking or Clunking?
Engine mounts are wear-and-tear items. The rubber inside them cracks, hardens, and breaks down from age, heat, and constant vibration. When they fail, the symptoms are hard to ignore. The most common signs for the Saturn Relay are a strong vibration felt in the steering wheel or seats at idle, and a distinct 'clunk' or 'thud' noise when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse.
Known Issues: Oil Leaks and Misdiagnosis
Oil Contamination: The most common failure point on these vans (and their GM siblings like the Chevy Uplander) is the passenger-side engine mount. This is often caused by engine oil leaking from valve cover gaskets directly onto the mount. The oil soaks into the rubber, causing it to soften, swell, and fail very quickly. Before replacing this mount, you must inspect for and repair any oil leaks from above, or the new mount will not last.
Vibration TSB: General Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some 2007 models that experience engine vibration. The cause was sometimes a faulty crankshaft balancer, not the engine mounts. If your main symptom is vibration without a clunking noise, it's worth considering other causes.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
For a vehicle like the 2005-2007 Saturn Relay, aftermarket parts offer excellent value. You will typically see two types of mounts: hydraulic and solid rubber. Original mounts are often hydraulic (fluid-filled) to provide the smoothest ride.
- Premium Brands (ACDelco): ACDelco is GM's official parts brand and is often the original equipment (OE) manufacturer. Choosing an ACDelco mount is the closest you can get to factory quality and will generally provide the best vibration absorption. This is the top choice if your budget allows.
- Standard/Value Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar): Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are popular, affordable aftermarket options. They provide a cost-effective solution and are a practical choice for an older vehicle. While their hydraulic mounts are good, some users report they may not last as long as the OE version. Some of these brands also offer solid rubber mounts, which can be more durable against oil but may transmit slightly more vibration to the cabin than a hydraulic design.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The total cost depends on which mount needs replacing and local labor rates. The main mounts are more expensive and labor-intensive than the upper torque struts.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $35.81 - $102.66 |
| Shop Labor | $171 - $263 |
| Total Estimated Cost (1 Mount) | $207 - $366 |
A Note on Sibling Vans
The Saturn Relay shares its platform with the Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana SV6, and Buick Terraza. Many parts, including engine mounts, are identical across these models. If you are searching for information or parts, including results for these other vans will give you a much wider range of information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does a Saturn Relay have?
These vans typically have four or more mounts. This includes a main mount on the passenger side, a transmission mount on the driver's side, and at least two upper torque struts (often called 'dog bones') to control engine rocking.
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
Yes, you can replace only the failed mount. However, mounts wear out at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely worn as well. If you replace one, the new, stiff mount can put extra stress on the remaining old, soft mounts, potentially causing them to fail sooner.
What happens if I don't replace a bad engine mount?
Ignoring a failed engine mount is not recommended. The constant, excessive engine movement can damage other components, including radiator hoses, wiring harnesses, exhaust pipes, and CV axles. This can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
Are the upper 'dog bone' mounts different from the lower mounts?
Yes. The upper torque struts, or 'dog bone' mounts, primarily control the engine's twisting motion. They are relatively easy and quick to replace. The lower mounts support the full weight of the engine and transmission and are more difficult to replace, as they require supporting the engine with a jack or brace.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 10345905 10448575
Fits 2005, 2006, 2007 Saturn Relay with 3.5L or 3.9L V6 engines. Mounts are specific to their position (e.g., front right, transmission, upper torque strut).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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