Saturn Relay Engine Torque Strut Mount Guide (2005-2007)
Stop the clunking and vibration in your Saturn Relay by understanding and replacing your engine torque strut mount.
- A clunking noise when shifting and vibration at idle are the top signs of a bad torque strut mount on your Relay.
- Replacement is simple for a DIYer and requires basic tools, as the mount is located on top of the engine.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor and Westar are affordable options; perfect OEM quality is not necessary for this part.
- There are no specific recalls for this part, but be aware that a bad crankshaft balancer can also cause engine vibration.
Is Your Saturn Relay's Engine Mount Failing?
A worn-out engine torque strut mount is a common issue that can cause noticeable problems in your minivan. Because this part is made of rubber and metal, the rubber can crack, tear, or get soft over time, especially if engine oil leaks on it. When the rubber fails, the engine can move too much, leading to symptoms you can feel and hear from the driver's seat.
Top 3 Failure Symptoms
- Clunking or Thudding Noises: The most common sign is a 'clunk' or 'thud' sound when you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse. You might also hear it when you press or release the gas pedal. This noise is the sound of the engine moving and hitting other components because the mount is no longer holding it tightly.
- Excessive Vibration: You may feel a strong vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or the whole cabin, especially when the van is idling at a stop light. While other issues can cause vibrations, bad engine mounts are a very common cause on the Saturn Relay.
- Visible Damage: You can often see if the mount is bad just by looking at it. Pop the hood and find the mount, which connects the top of the engine to the radiator support area. Look for deep cracks, torn rubber, or signs that the center bushing has separated from the outer metal part.
Could It Be Something Else?
General Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some 2007-2008 Saturn Relays that experienced engine vibration. The cause was identified as 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 Mount
For the 2005-2007 Saturn Relay, you don't need to buy an expensive original equipment (OEM) part from the dealer. Aftermarket brands offer a cost-effective solution. The main brands available are Anchor, DEA, and Westar. These are all considered economy brands, and experiences with them can be mixed.
- Good Value Tier (Anchor, Westar): These brands are widely available and very affordable. Some mechanics find them to be a perfectly fine replacement for the price, lasting for many miles. Westar is noted as a long-time manufacturer of mounts.
- Budget Tier (DEA): While also very inexpensive, some user reviews suggest DEA mounts may have a shorter lifespan compared to other brands.
Pro Tip: Given the low cost of these parts (often under $30), even if an aftermarket mount only lasts a few years, it can be a sensible repair. The quality difference between these economy brands is often minimal. The most important factor is correct installation.
Replacement Cost for 2005-2007 Saturn Relay
The cost to replace the engine torque strut mount is very reasonable, especially if you do it yourself. The part is easy to access at the top of the engine.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $8 - $43 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $190 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $108 - $233 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary by location and repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to replace the torque strut mount myself?
This is a good job for a beginner. The mount is on top of the engine and easy to reach. The basic steps involve supporting the engine from below with a jack and a block of wood, removing two or three bolts, swapping the part, and tightening the new bolts. It typically requires only basic hand tools like a socket set.
Are there any recalls for the Saturn Relay engine mounts?
No, there have been no recalls issued by the NHTSA for the engine mounts on the 2005-2007 Saturn Relay. Recalls for this vehicle relate to other issues like seat belts and labels.
Will a new mount feel different than the original?
Sometimes, new aftermarket mounts can feel slightly stiffer than the original OEM part when it was new. This might transfer a very small amount of extra vibration into the cabin, but it will be a huge improvement over a completely failed mount. Most drivers will only notice a smoother, quieter ride.
Do I need to replace all engine mounts at once?
Not necessarily. The torque strut mount often fails first because it takes a lot of stress. If your other mounts look okay (no cracks or leaking fluid), you can just replace the one that has failed. However, if one has failed due to age, the others may not be far behind.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 10154776 12570320
The engine torque strut mount for the 2005-2007 Saturn Relay is a 'dog bone' style mount, typically with an aluminum bracket and a rubber bushing. It connects the engine assembly to the upper radiator support.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Saturn Relay: