2005-2009 Buick Allure Engine Torque Strut Mount Replacement Guide
Eliminate the clunking noise and excessive engine vibration in your Buick Allure.
- A 'clunk' noise when accelerating or shifting is the most common symptom of a bad torque strut mount on your Allure.
- This is a simple, inexpensive repair that is highly suitable for DIY replacement with basic tools.
- Affordable aftermarket brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are a practical and cost-effective solution for this specific part.
- Ignoring a bad mount can lead to premature failure of other engine mounts and stress on connected components.
Is Your Buick Allure Clunking and Vibrating?
A failing engine torque strut mount is a common issue on this platform that can make your car feel rough and noisy. The rubber in the mount wears out from age, heat, and constant stress, losing its ability to absorb engine movement. When the rubber cracks or separates, the engine can move and knock against other parts.
Top 3 Symptoms of a Bad Torque Strut Mount
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: The most common sign is a distinct 'clunk' or 'thud' when you accelerate, brake, or shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. This is the sound of the engine shifting and hitting its limits.
- Excessive Vibration: You might feel a rough vibration through the steering wheel or floor, especially when the car is idling with the transmission in gear. This happens because the worn mount can no longer dampen the engine's natural vibrations.
- Visible Engine Movement: With the hood open and the car in park, have a helper lightly press and release the accelerator (or shift from Drive to Reverse with the brake pedal held firmly). If you see the engine lurching forward or backward more than an inch or two, the mount is likely bad.
Don't Ignore a Bad Mount
While the car is still driveable, a failed torque strut mount puts extra stress on the other engine and transmission mounts, which can cause them to fail prematurely. It can also strain exhaust pipes, wiring, and coolant hoses, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For a simple part like the torque strut mount on the Allure, you don't need to pay high dealer prices for an OEM part. Aftermarket options provide a great balance of quality and value for this specific repair. The brands available generally fall into a standard, affordable category that is perfectly suitable for a daily driven vehicle.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These brands are widely available and very affordable. They are a practical choice for drivers looking for a cost-effective fix. While they may not have the same lifespan as a factory part, they will solve the clunking and vibration issues. For a part that is easy to replace, the cost savings are often worth it.
- Standard Aftermarket (Pioneer): Pioneer is primarily known for automotive cables, but they also offer engine mounts that are generally considered to be of good quality, sometimes looking very similar to the original factory parts. If you find a Pioneer mount, it can be a solid choice.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Your Allure may have two of these torque strut mounts (left and right). If one has failed due to age and wear, the other is likely not far behind. Since the parts are inexpensive and the job is straightforward, it's wise to replace them in pairs to ensure balanced performance and avoid doing the same job twice.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $8.56 - $31.75 |
| New OEM Part (GM Genuine) | $70 - $120 |
| Shop Labor Cost | $75 - $150 |
| Total DIY Cost (Aftermarket) | $9 - $32 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket) | $85 - $182 |
Installation Overview
Replacing the torque strut mount on a 2005-2009 Allure is a great DIY project for a beginner. The mount is typically located at the top of the engine bay, making it easy to access. The job usually requires only basic hand tools and can be completed in under an hour.
- Locate the torque strut mount(s) at the top of the engine.
- Use a socket wrench (typically 18mm for this GM platform) to remove the nut and bolt holding the old mount in place.
- Lift the old mount out.
- Place the new mount into position and reinstall the bolt and nut.
- Tighten the fasteners securely, but do not overtighten to the point of distorting the new rubber bushings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the engine torque strut mount do?
It acts like a shock absorber for your engine's rotational movement. It keeps the engine from rocking too much when you accelerate or brake, which protects other parts and reduces vibration inside the car.
Can I drive my Buick Allure with a bad torque strut mount?
Yes, but it's not recommended for long. The clunking noises and vibrations will get worse, and the added engine movement puts stress on other, more expensive parts like the transmission mounts and exhaust system.
Is this the same as a motor mount?
It is a type of motor mount. Cars have several mounts, and the torque strut is specifically designed to control the twisting force (torque) of the engine. It's often called a 'dog bone' mount or upper mount.
Are there any recalls for the Buick Allure engine mounts?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database show no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for engine mount failure on the 2005-2009 Buick Allure. This is considered a normal wear-and-tear item.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 10230877 10230878 10420009
The 2005-2009 Buick Allure uses one or two 'dog bone' style torque strut mounts at the top of the engine. Common aftermarket cross-reference part numbers include A2866, 2716, and 3088.
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.
- Buick Allure: