Acura TL Engine Mount Replacement - How to for Rear - Part 1 of 3
Table of Contents
Introduction
This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the rear engine mount on an Acura TL (2004-2008). If your vehicle is experiencing vibrations at idle, knocking noises during driving, or hard shifts, it may be time to replace your engine mounts. Replacing the rear engine mount is a crucial step that can greatly enhance driving comfort and performance.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Before starting the replacement, ensure you have the following tools and materials ready:
- Socket set (including 14mm, 17mm, and 19mm sockets)
- Ratchet and extensions
- Torque wrench
- Engine support bar or jack stands
- New rear engine mount (Anchor part number ANCHOR 9451)
- Safety glasses and gloves
Practical Tips
- Always work in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear protective gear to avoid injuries.
Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park the Car Safely: Ensure your car is on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Disconnect the Battery: Remove the negative terminal to prevent any electrical issues while working.
- Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the car and secure it with jack stands to ensure stability.
Step 3: Locate the Rear Engine Mount
- Access the Engine Compartment: Open the hood and locate the rear engine mount, which is typically situated at the back of the engine near the firewall.
- Identify Mounting Bolts: The mount will have several bolts securing it to the engine and the subframe.
Step 4: Remove the Old Engine Mount
- Support the Engine: Use an engine support bar or a jack to hold the engine in place as you remove the mount.
- Loosen and Remove Bolts:
- Use the appropriate socket to loosen the bolts on the engine mount.
- Carefully remove the bolts and set them aside for later use.
- Take Out the Old Mount: Once all bolts are removed, carefully lift out the old engine mount.
Common Pitfalls
- Ensure the engine is properly supported before removing the mount to avoid damaging other components.
Step 5: Install the New Engine Mount
- Position the New Mount: Place the new engine mount in the same location as the old one.
- Insert and Tighten Bolts:
- Hand-tighten the bolts to secure the mount in place.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (check your vehicle’s manual for specific torque settings).
Step 6: Reassemble and Test
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car back to the ground.
- Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive to ensure that vibrations and knocking noises have been resolved.
Conclusion
Replacing the rear engine mount on your Acura TL can significantly improve your driving experience by reducing vibrations and enhancing overall comfort. Remember to follow each step carefully and use the right tools to ensure a successful installation. For further improvements, stay tuned for the next tutorials covering the replacement of the other engine mounts.