A Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts on Your 2005-2009 Chevrolet Uplander
Eliminate vibrations and clunking noises by understanding your Uplander's engine mount system.
- Symptoms include heavy vibration at idle and loud clunking noises when shifting gears or accelerating.
- For the smoothest, quietest ride, choose ACDelco (OEM) mounts; budget brands like Anchor and DEA may increase cabin vibration.
- The lower engine mount is a common failure point, often damaged by engine oil leaks.
- If one mount has failed on a high-mileage vehicle, the others are likely weak and should be inspected or replaced as a set.
Is Your Uplander's Engine Mount Failing?
Engine mounts are wear-and-tear items. The rubber inside them cracks and weakens from age, heat, and exposure to fluids like oil. When a mount fails, the engine can move and shake excessively, leading to distinct symptoms.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Mount:
- Increased Vibration: A strong vibration felt in the steering wheel, floor, or seats when the engine is idling is the most common sign. This often gets worse when the air conditioning is turned on.
- Loud Noises: You may hear a 'clunk' or 'thump' from the engine bay when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. Banging or clunking noises can also happen during acceleration or deceleration.
- Visible Engine Movement: Open the hood and have a helper shift the van from Reverse to Drive while holding the brake. If you see the engine lurch or jump more than an inch or so, one or more mounts have likely failed. 🎬 Watch: How to identify and locate a bad engine mount.
A Common Point of Failure
On the Uplander, the lower engine mounts are known to fail. They sit underneath the engine and can be damaged by leaking oil or power steering fluid, which causes the rubber to soften and disintegrate. When replacing a mount, it's a good idea to fix any fluid leaks at the same time.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
When shopping for new aftermarket mounts, you'll find a big difference in price and quality. The choice comes down to a trade-off between cost and ride quality.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1 (OEM Quality): ACDelco
ACDelco is GM's original parts brand. Choosing ACDelco mounts is the surest way to restore the original, smooth feel of your vehicle. They are designed with the correct rubber hardness and, in some cases, are fluid-filled (hydraulic) to absorb the most vibration. While they are the most expensive option, mechanics often recommend them to avoid issues like excessive vibration and premature failure. - Tier 2 (Budget-Friendly): Anchor, DEA, Westar, Pioneer
These brands offer significant cost savings. However, this often comes at the cost of ride comfort and longevity. Forum discussions and reviews show a pattern of common complaints for these budget brands. They frequently use a harder rubber compound, which can transmit more engine vibration into the cabin than the original mounts. There are also reports of premature failure and fitment issues where bolt holes don't line up perfectly. These can be a viable option if you're on a tight budget and can tolerate some potential vibration, but be aware of the trade-offs.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
Your Uplander has multiple mounts supporting the engine and transmission. When one mount fails, it puts extra stress on the others, causing them to wear out faster. If you have a high-mileage vehicle, it's often a good idea to replace all the mounts as a set to ensure a long-lasting, smooth repair.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace an engine mount varies based on which mount is being replaced and who does the work.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount (Single) | $35 - $103 |
| New OEM Mount (Single) | $75 - $190+ |
| Shop Labor (Single Mount) | $171 - $251 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Single Mount) | $289 - $369 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many engine mounts does a 2005-2009 Chevrolet Uplander have?
The system typically consists of 3-4 main mounts plus one or two upper torque struts (often called 'dog bones'). You can often buy them individually or in complete kits of 4 or 6 pieces.
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
Yes, you can replace only the failed mount. However, all the mounts are the same age. A failed mount has likely put extra strain on the others, and another failure could be right around the corner. For a lasting repair, consider replacing them all, especially on a higher-mileage vehicle.
Is it hard to replace an Uplander engine mount myself?
It is a moderately difficult job for a DIYer. It requires safely supporting the engine from below with a jack and a block of wood, or preferably with an engine support bar from above. Access to some bolts can be tight. If you are not comfortable supporting an engine, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
🎬 Watch: A guide to diagnosing symptoms and estimating replacement costs.Will a cheap aftermarket mount really cause more vibration?
It is a common complaint. To save costs, budget brands often use solid, hard rubber instead of softer compounds or the fluid-filled designs of OEM mounts. This makes them less effective at absorbing the engine's vibrations, which you will feel inside the van.
Were there any recalls on Uplander engine mounts?
No, there have been no safety recalls issued by the NHTSA for engine mounts on the 2005-2009 Chevrolet Uplander.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 10448575 10247084 12577766 10274661 12594433 22146688
The system consists of multiple mounts, including right and left mounts, front and rear mounts/struts, and transmission mounts. Some original mounts may be hydraulic (fluid-filled) for superior vibration damping. Aftermarket options are typically solid rubber.
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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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