How many engine mounts does an Acura TL have?
Three engine mounts. In most Acura TL configurations, the V6 powertrain is secured by two side mounts and one rear mount near the firewall, with a separate transmission mount handling the drivetrain connection. This article explains the layout and any year-to-year variations.
Engine mount layout in the TL
The typical TL layout uses three engine mounts to secure the V6 powerplant to the chassis. The arrangement helps minimize vibration and keeps the engine aligned with the transaxle. The mounts are located as follows:
- Left front engine mount (driver side) attached to the engine block and subframe.
- Right front engine mount (passenger side) attached to the engine block and subframe.
- Rear engine mount toward the firewall that secures the rear of the engine to the chassis.
In short, three engine mounts provide primary support for the engine, while the transmission relies on its own separate mount. This arrangement is consistent across the TL's typical production years, though some minor hardware variations exist by generation or trim.
Year-to-year consistency and notes
Across the TL's production span (1999–2008 for the traditional TL), the three-engine-mount arrangement remains the standard. There are no years in which the vehicle uses fewer or more than three engine mounts for the V6 engine; the main differences are in mounting hardware design and fitment details rather than the count.
When diagnosing vibration or replacing mounts, it's important to distinguish engine mounts from the transmission mount, which is a separate component that attaches the transaxle to the subframe. The TL's transmission mount is not counted among the engine mounts, but it is a critical part of the drivetrain isolation system.
How to locate and replace (practical guide)
For quick reference, use this practical guide to locate the engine mounts in a typical TL. The following steps outline a general approach; always consult the service manual for your exact year and trim for torque specs and procedures.
- Identify the two engine mounts at the sides of the engine bay, near the front subframe. These are attached to the engine block and connect to the subframe.
- Locate the rear engine mount toward the firewall, supporting the rear of the engine. This mount is often accessed from under the hood or from the engine bay rear area depending on the body style.
- Do not confuse these with the transmission mount, which sits between the engine/transaxle and the subframe at the transmission side.
In practice, replacing any engine mount typically requires supporting the engine, removing nearby components to access bolts, and following torque specifications; improper mounting can lead to increased vibration or misalignment.
Summary
Most Acura TL models use three engine mounts: two side mounts and one rear mount near the firewall, with a separate transmission mount handling the drivetrain connection. The count is generally consistent across 1999–2008 TLs, though exact hardware and access can vary by year and trim. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for precise guidance.
