A Guide to the Engine Torque Strut Mount for the 2007-2012 Chevrolet Impala
Hearing a clunk when you shift or accelerate? Your Impala's engine torque struts are a likely and easy-to-fix cause.
- The most common signs of failure are a 'clunk' when shifting and vibration at idle.
- This is a very easy DIY repair, requiring only basic tools and less than an hour of time.
- Budget aftermarket brands (Anchor, DEA, Westar) are cheap but may not last; consider replacing in pairs.
- No recalls have been issued for the engine torque strut mounts on this vehicle.
Symptoms of a Failing Torque Strut Mount
When the rubber bushings in the torque strut mounts wear out, the signs are usually obvious. Because these mounts are located right on top of the engine, they are easy to inspect for damage.
- Clunking or Banging Noises: The most common symptom is a loud 'clunk' or 'thump' when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. You may also hear this noise when you accelerate or decelerate suddenly.
- Excessive Vibration: You may feel a strong vibration in the steering wheel, seats, or floorboards, especially when the car is stopped but still in gear.
- Visible Engine Movement: With the hood open and the parking brake on, have a helper firmly press the brake pedal and shift the car between Drive and Reverse. If you see the engine lurch or jump significantly, 🎬 Watch a demonstration of how to check for bad mounts. the mounts are bad.
- Visual Damage: Look at the two mounts on top of the engine. If the rubber is cracked, torn, or separated from the metal, the mount has failed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For the 2007-2012 Impala, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) ACDelco parts and several aftermarket brands. While aftermarket parts offer significant savings, quality can vary.
A Note on Economy Brands
Brands like Anchor, DEA, and Westar are widely available and very affordable. However, forum discussions and mechanic reviews suggest they may not last as long as the original parts. Some owners have reported these mounts failing in less than a year. If you are on a tight budget they will work, but be aware that you might be replacing them again sooner than you'd like.
Aftermarket brands can be grouped into tiers:
- Standard Economy (Anchor, DEA, Westar): These are the most budget-friendly options. They are functional and will solve the immediate problem, but their long-term durability is a common concern among vehicle owners.
- Standard Quality (Pioneer Cable): Some user reviews suggest that Pioneer offers a quality level closer to the original factory parts compared to other economy brands. This can be a good middle-ground choice.
- OEM Quality (ACDelco): For the best fit and longest life, ACDelco is the original equipment manufacturer. While more expensive, they are the benchmark for quality and durability.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and technical service bulletins (TSBs) show no specific recalls or bulletins related to the engine torque strut mounts for the 2007-2012 Chevrolet Impala. Recalls for this generation typically involve other components like lower control arms on police models or power steering hoses.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Your Impala has two of these upper torque strut mounts. It is highly recommended to replace both at the same time. If one has failed due to age and wear, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures even support for the engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace the engine torque struts on an Impala?
No, this is considered a very easy DIY job. The two mounts are located directly on top of the engine bay and are easily accessible. The replacement involves removing a few bolts, swapping the part, and reinstalling the new bolts. The entire job can often be done in under an hour with basic hand tools.
🎬 Watch this quick walkthrough on replacing your upper torque struts.What tools are needed to replace these mounts?
You will need a ratchet with 13mm and 15mm sockets, a 15mm wrench, and a pry bar. The pry bar is helpful for gently moving the engine a small amount to line up the bolt holes for the new mount.
Are there any specific torque specs I should know?
Yes. When installing the new mounts, the 15mm bolts should be tightened to 50-55 ft-lbs, and the 13mm bolts should be tightened to 35 ft-lbs.
My main engine mount is leaking oil. Is that related?
The upper torque struts are solid rubber, but the main, lower engine mount on the passenger side of the Impala is hydraulic (fluid-filled). If you see oil leaking from a mount, it's likely the main lower mount, which is a separate and more involved repair. 🎬 See how to replace every engine mount on your Impala. Oil leaks from the engine (like from a valve cover) can drip onto the rubber mounts and cause them to degrade and fail prematurely.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 22857330
The 2007-2012 Impala uses two upper engine torque strut mounts, also known as 'dog bone' mounts. Common aftermarket part numbers include Anchor 3090 and Anchor 3104. Installation requires tightening 15mm bolts to 50-55 ft-lbs and 13mm bolts to 35 ft-lbs.
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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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