Acura RL Engine Mount Guide (2005-2012): Understanding Failures and Replacements
Experiencing excess vibration or clunking noises in your Acura RL? Your engine mounts may be the cause.
- OEM mounts are active and vacuum-controlled; choosing budget aftermarket mounts will likely result in a noticeable increase in cabin vibration.
- Common failure symptoms include heavy vibration at idle, and a 'clunk' noise when shifting gears.
- The front and rear engine mounts are common failure points and should be inspected for tears and collapsed rubber.
- No recalls have been issued for this part; failure is considered a common maintenance issue for this vehicle.
Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
Worn engine mounts on an Acura RL make themselves known in a few distinct ways. Because the original mounts are designed for comfort, you will notice a clear difference when they fail.
- Increased Vibration: This is the most common symptom. You'll feel a rough, vibrating sensation in the steering wheel, floor, and seats, especially when idling in gear or when the air conditioning is on.
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: You might hear a 'clunk' or 'thump' from the engine bay when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. This sound can also occur during acceleration or braking as the engine shifts in its cradle.
- Visible Engine Movement: A mechanic can check for a bad mount by holding the brake, putting the car in gear, and lightly pressing the gas. An engine with a failed mount will lift or rock significantly, sometimes by an inch or more. 🎬 Watch: How to inspect engine mounts on Acura V6 engines You may also see that the engine is sagging or tilted in the engine bay.
The Critical Difference: OEM vs. Aftermarket Mounts
For the 2005-2012 Acura RL, the choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket engine mounts is significant. The OEM mounts are electronically controlled, vacuum-actuated, and fluid-filled to provide superior vibration damping. Most aftermarket options, especially in the lower price range, are passive mounts made of solid rubber or a simple hydraulic design without the active control.
What this means for you: Installing budget aftermarket mounts will almost certainly result in a noticeable increase in cabin vibration compared to the original parts. While they will secure the engine, they cannot replicate the smooth, luxury feel of the OEM active mounts. Many RL owners who have tried cheaper aftermarket mounts report being unhappy with the constant vibration and ultimately switching to OEM parts to fix it.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
If you decide an aftermarket part is right for you, it's important to understand the brands available.
- Economy Brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These brands offer a low-cost alternative to OEM parts. They are widely available and will fit your vehicle. However, based on owner experiences across many forums, these brands are considered budget options and are the most likely to introduce significant vibration into the cabin of your RL. They are a functional repair to secure the engine, but not a good choice if you want to maintain the car's original ride quality.
Pro Tip: If your budget is tight, some owners have had success replacing only the completely failed mount (often the front or rear 🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the front engine mount) with an OEM part and leaving the others, but the best practice is to inspect all mounts and replace them as a set if they show wear.
Cost of Replacing Acura RL Engine Mounts
| Part Type | Estimated Part Cost (per mount) |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $315 - $520 |
| New Aftermarket | $54 - $115 |
| Shop Labor | $170 - $500 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific mount being replaced, and the repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do cheap aftermarket engine mounts cause my RL to vibrate?
The original Acura mounts are active, vacuum-controlled parts designed to cancel out engine vibrations. Cheaper aftermarket mounts are typically just blocks of rubber (passive mounts). They don't have the technology to absorb vibrations as effectively, leading to a rougher feel inside the car, especially at idle.
How many engine mounts does a 2005-2012 Acura RL have?
The Acura RL has three main engine mounts: a front mount, a side (passenger side) mount, and a rear mount. It also has separate transmission mounts that can wear out.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing the transmission mountCan I just replace the one broken mount?
Yes, you can replace a single mount. However, engine mounts tend to wear at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely worn and under extra stress. Replacing them at the same time can save you on future labor costs and ensure the engine is properly balanced.
Are there any recalls for the Acura RL engine mounts?
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for engine mount failure on the 2005-2012 Acura RL. This is considered a wear-and-tear item, though they are known to fail commonly on Honda and Acura vehicles of this era.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 50830-SJA-E01 (Front Mount) 50820-SJA-305 (Side Mount) 50810-SJA-E01 (Rear Mount)
The 2005-2012 Acura RL uses a system of three primary engine mounts. The original factory front and rear mounts are hydraulic (fluid-filled) and electronically controlled via engine vacuum to actively dampen vibration.
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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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