A Buick LaCrosse Owner's Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts (2005-2019)
Stop the shaking and clunking by choosing the right new aftermarket engine mount for your LaCrosse.
- Verify your exact year, engine, and drivetrain (FWD/AWD) before buying, as mounts are not interchangeable across LaCrosse generations.
- The most common symptoms are heavy vibration at idle and a clunking noise when accelerating.
- For a factory-smooth ride, choose OEM ACDelco mounts; for a budget-friendly repair, standard aftermarket brands like Anchor are a viable option.
- If one mount has failed from age, the others are likely worn and should be inspected or replaced at the same time.
Is Your LaCrosse Shaking or Making Clunking Noises?
A smooth ride is a key feature of the Buick LaCrosse. When you start feeling vibrations through the steering wheel or seat, or hear loud clunks, a failing engine mount is a very common cause. Because the rubber and fluid in the mounts wear out over time from heat and stress, they eventually need to be replaced. Ignoring a bad mount can lead to more damage to other parts.
Top 5 Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
- Excessive Vibration: A strong vibration felt in the cabin, especially when the car is stopped and in gear (at a stoplight, for example), is the most common sign.
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: A loud 'clunk' when you accelerate, decelerate, or shift from Drive to Reverse. This is the sound of the engine moving too much and hitting its limits.
- Visible Engine Movement: If you have a helper put the car in gear with the brake held down and gently press the gas, you might see the engine lift or jerk significantly. A little movement is normal, but more than an inch or two indicates a problem. 🎬 Watch: How to identify and locate a bad engine mount.
- Rough Shifting Feel: As the engine and transmission move out of alignment, you might feel a jolt when the car shifts gears.
- Leaking Fluid: Some LaCrosse mounts are hydraulic. If you see dark, oily fluid on or below a mount, it has failed.
Generation and Engine Matter
The 2005-2019 LaCrosse spans three different vehicle generations with various engines (2.4L, 3.6L, 3.8L, etc.) and drivetrains (FWD/AWD). The engine mounts are NOT interchangeable. Always confirm your vehicle's exact year, engine size, and drivetrain before ordering a new part. An incorrect mount will not fit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
When replacing your engine mounts, you have a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts. For the LaCrosse, ACDelco is the OEM parts provider for General Motors. Aftermarket parts offer a more affordable alternative.
Brand Quality Tiers
Not all aftermarket brands are created equal. Here’s an honest breakdown of the brands available:
- Premium Aftermarket / OEM-Equivalent (ACDelco): If you want the quietest, smoothest ride that is identical to the factory feel, ACDelco is the best choice. Their hydraulic mounts are designed specifically for the LaCrosse to absorb vibrations effectively. They are the most expensive option but provide the highest quality.
- Standard Aftermarket (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These are the most common budget-friendly options. They are typically made of solid rubber instead of being fluid-filled. This can sometimes lead to slightly more vibration in the cabin compared to OEM mounts. However, for many owners, the cost savings are worth it, and they provide a perfectly safe and functional repair. Anchor is a very popular choice in this category.
- Other Aftermarket (Pioneer, Vaico): These brands are also available and generally fall into the standard, budget-focused category. They can be a good value, but there is less specific owner feedback available for the LaCrosse.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
Your LaCrosse has multiple engine and transmission mounts. If one has failed due to age and mileage, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing them as a set can save you on future labor costs and ensure the entire system is stable.
Cost to Replace Buick LaCrosse Engine Mounts
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Engine Mount (Single) | $24 - $129 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) Engine Mount (Single) | $80 - $175+ |
| Shop Labor Cost (Per Mount) | $100 - $250 |
| Total DIY Cost (1 Aftermarket Mount) | $24 - $129 |
| Total Professional Cost (1 Aftermarket Mount) | $124 - $379 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does my Buick LaCrosse have?
Most LaCrosse models have three or four mounts that support the engine and transmission assembly. This typically includes a right-side engine mount, a front and rear torque strut mount (or dog bone) 🎬 See this quick step-by-step dogbone mount installation guide., and a transmission mount.
Is it difficult to replace a LaCrosse engine mount myself?
For someone with mechanical experience, it is a manageable DIY job. The basic process involves supporting the engine's weight with a floor jack and a piece of wood, then unbolting and replacing the mount. However, some bolts can be hard to reach, and properly aligning everything is crucial. If you are not comfortable working under your car, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
🎬 Watch this full motor and transmission mount replacement walkthrough.Will a cheaper aftermarket mount make my car vibrate?
It might. Many budget-friendly aftermarket mounts use solid rubber, which is durable but doesn't absorb fine vibrations as well as the fluid-filled OEM hydraulic mounts. While some drivers don't notice a difference, others report a slight increase in idle vibration. If your priority is a perfectly smooth and quiet ride, an OEM or premium hydraulic aftermarket mount is the safer bet.
Are there any recalls for LaCrosse engine mounts?
No, there are no specific safety recalls for engine mounts on the 2005-2019 Buick LaCrosse. Failures are considered normal wear and tear. There was a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some GM vehicles regarding vibration at idle that could be caused by engine mount issues, confirming it's a known condition.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13227719 22744337 10448575 84080170
Mounts vary by vehicle generation, engine size (2.4L, 3.0L, 3.6L, 3.8L), and drivetrain (FWD or AWD). Some are hydraulic (fluid-filled) while many aftermarket options are solid rubber. Torque struts, also called dog-bone mounts, are used to control engine rocking.
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 LaCrosse:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your LaCrosse Shaking or Making Clunking Noises?
- Top 5 Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
- Generation and Engine Matter
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
- Cost to Replace Buick LaCrosse Engine Mounts
- Frequently Asked Questions
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