Chevrolet Caprice PPV Engine Mount Replacement Guide (2011-2017)
Feeling a clunk or heavy vibration in your Caprice? Your engine mounts might be the culprit.
- For the 2011-2017 Caprice PPV, using OEM-quality ACDelco hydraulic mounts is strongly recommended to avoid excessive vibration.
- Symptoms of failure include heavy vibration at idle, and loud clunking noises when accelerating or shifting gears.
- It's best practice to replace engine mounts in pairs to ensure even support and longevity.
- No recalls have been issued for the engine mounts on this vehicle, but they are a known wear item, especially on high-mileage fleet vehicles.
Is Your Caprice Shaking or Clunking? Diagnosing Bad Engine Mounts
The engine mounts on the 2011-2017 Caprice PPV are known to wear out, especially the driver's side mount, due to the engine's torque and the heavy-duty use these vehicles often see. When they fail, the symptoms are hard to ignore. Look for these common signs:
- Excessive Vibration: You might feel a strong vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or seats when the car is idling in gear. 🎬 Watch: How to identify common symptoms and locate bad mounts. This is often the first sign. Some owners report this is worse when the A/C is on.
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: A loud clunk, bang, or thud when you accelerate, shift from Park to Drive/Reverse, or brake hard is a classic symptom. This is the sound of the engine moving excessively and hitting other parts. Caprice owners specifically mention hearing noises when the car is cold and put into reverse.
- Visible Engine Movement: Have a helper watch the engine while the car is in Drive with the brake pedal firmly pressed. If you briefly apply the throttle and the engine lifts or rocks violently, the mounts are likely bad. 🎬 See a pro demonstrate how to diagnose failing engine mounts.
Fluid Leaks Can Be a Sign
The original ACDelco mounts for your Caprice are hydraulic (fluid-filled). If you see dark, oily residue on or around the engine mount, it's a clear indication the mount has failed and leaked its damping fluid. This is different from an oil or coolant leak.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: Brand Quality Matters
When shopping for a new engine mount for your Caprice, you'll find a few options. For this specific vehicle, the choice of brand significantly impacts performance and longevity.
Tier 1: OEM-Quality Replacement
- ACDelco: This is the original equipment manufacturer for your Caprice. These mounts are hydraulic and designed specifically to absorb the V8 engine's vibrations for a smooth ride. Forum members and mechanics strongly recommend using ACDelco mounts, even if they cost a bit more, because they prevent the excessive vibrations that cheaper, solid rubber mounts can cause.
Tier 2: Standard Aftermarket
- DEA (DEA Products) & Westar: These brands offer a more budget-friendly alternative. However, be aware that these are often solid rubber mounts, not hydraulic like the originals. While they will hold the engine in place, they may transmit significantly more vibration into the cabin, resulting in a rougher idle and feel. Some owners of various vehicles have reported these brands failing much sooner than OEM parts.
Pro Tip: Stick with Hydraulic Mounts
For a large, powerful engine like the 6.0L V8 in the Caprice, using the correct hydraulic mounts is critical for ride comfort. Choosing a cheaper, solid rubber mount will likely result in vibrations you can't ignore. The consensus among Caprice owners is to spend the extra money on ACDelco parts to do the job right the first time.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
There are no official recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Chevrolet for engine mount failure on the 2011-2017 Caprice PPV. Searches of the NHTSA database show recalls for other items like the shifter and seat belts, but not the engine mounts. However, a GM bulletin for similar V8-powered trucks (17-NA-166) highlights the importance of replacing engine mount bolts and properly "settling" all mounts during installation to prevent vibration, which is excellent advice for the Caprice as well.
Cost of Replacing Chevrolet Caprice Engine Mounts
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Mount (per mount) | $109.82 - $193.41 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) Mount (per mount) | $190 - $220 |
| Shop Labor (for two mounts) | $250 - $550 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM Parts) | $630 - $990 |
Cost estimates are based on national averages and may vary by location and parts supplier. The provided aftermarket price range is based on inventory data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace just one bad engine mount?
It is highly recommended to replace engine mounts in pairs (both left and right). If one has failed due to age and wear, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing only one can put extra stress on the new mount and the old transmission mount.
Is engine mount replacement a DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, yes. The process involves supporting the engine with a floor jack and wood block, and then unbolting the mounts. However, access can be tight, especially on the passenger side, and care must be taken not to lift the engine too high, which could damage other components like A/C lines. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step walkthrough for replacing V8 engine mounts. A GM service bulletin also recommends a specific procedure to settle the mounts to avoid vibration.
Why can't I just use a cheaper solid rubber mount?
You can, but you will likely regret it. The Caprice's original mounts are hydraulic (fluid-filled) for a reason: to dampen the V8 engine's vibrations. A solid rubber mount will secure the engine but will transfer much more vibration into the car's frame, leading to a rough, noisy, and uncomfortable ride, especially at idle.
Are there any recalls on the 2011-2017 Caprice engine mounts?
No. While there have been recalls for the Caprice PPV for issues like the seat belt cable and transmission shifter, there are no safety recalls related to the engine mounts.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 92271062
The OEM mounts for the 6.0L V8 are hydraulic (fluid-filled) to dampen vibration. Aftermarket options are often 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.
- Chevrolet Caprice:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Caprice Shaking or Clunking? Diagnosing Bad Engine Mounts
- Fluid Leaks Can Be a Sign
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount: Brand Quality Matters
- Tier 1: OEM-Quality Replacement
- Tier 2: Standard Aftermarket
- Pro Tip: Stick with Hydraulic Mounts
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
- Cost of Replacing Chevrolet Caprice Engine Mounts
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off