This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the front engine mount strut (torque strut) on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD, which controls engine movement and vibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Engine mount strut (torque strut) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Engine mount strut mounting bolts (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after running)
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure away from battery post
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on integrated pull tabs
5. Raise vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-designated lift points
6. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
7. Install engine support bar across engine compartment or use overhead beam with engine support fixture
8. Take clear photographs of engine mount strut orientation and routing before removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Support the engine weight
   Using the engine support bar or overhead fixture, attach lifting chain or strap to designated engine lift points on the cylinder heads. Apply slight upward tension to take weight off the engine mounts, but do not lift the engine. The engine should remain in its normal position with mounts just slightly unloaded. Verify support is secure and stable.
2. 2

   Remove upper air intake components if necessary
   Depending on access requirements, you may need to remove the upper intake tube or air filter housing. Disconnect any electrical connectors and loosen clamps. Move components aside to provide clear access to the front engine mount strut area. The strut is typically located between the front of the engine and the radiator support/subframe.
3. 3

   Locate and inspect the engine mount strut
   Identify the engine mount strut assembly, which runs from the engine block or front timing cover area to the front subframe or radiator support. Inspect for signs of damage, fluid leakage (if hydraulic type), or torn rubber. Note the orientation and any alignment marks. Apply penetrating oil to all mounting bolt threads and allow to soak for 10 minutes.
4. 4

   Remove engine-side mounting bolts
   Using appropriate socket and wrench, remove the mounting bolts securing the engine mount strut to the engine block or timing cover bracket. There are typically 2-3 bolts. Support the strut with one hand as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling. The engine may shift slightly when the connection is freed - this is normal if properly supported.
5. 5

   Remove subframe-side mounting bolts
   Locate the mounting bracket on the front subframe or radiator support where the other end of the strut attaches. Remove the mounting bolts securing the strut to this bracket. Again, support the strut to prevent it from falling once freed. Note that access may be tight and require extension bars or swivel sockets.
6. 6

   Remove the engine mount strut assembly
   Carefully extract the engine mount strut from the engine bay. It may require slight rotation or angling to clear surrounding components such as AC lines, wiring harnesses, or coolant hoses. Do not force - reposition as needed. Inspect the mounting brackets on both the engine and subframe for damage, elongation of bolt holes, or cracks.
7. 7

   Prepare mounting surfaces
   Using a wire brush, clean all mounting surfaces on both the engine-side bracket and subframe-side bracket. Remove any corrosion, old thread lock compound, or debris. Inspect all bolt threads and replace any bolts that show damage, stripped threads, or excessive corrosion. Verify mounting brackets are not cracked or damaged.
8. 8

   Position new engine mount strut
   Compare the new mount strut to the old unit to verify correct part and orientation. Position the new strut into place, aligning with both engine-side and subframe-side mounting points. The orientation must match the original installation - reference your photographs. Insert bolts finger-tight only at this stage.
9. 9

   Install and torque subframe-side bolts
   With the strut positioned correctly, install the subframe-side mounting bolts and torque to manufacturer specification. As torque specs are not available in this database, you MUST consult a Maserati factory service manual for correct values. Typical values for this application range from 50-75 ft-lbs, but DO NOT guess - verify before torquing.
10. 10

    Install and torque engine-side bolts
    Install the engine-side mounting bolts and torque to manufacturer specification using proper torque sequence (typically center bolt first if three bolts, or criss-cross pattern if two bolts). Again, consult factory service manual for exact torque values. Verify all bolts are fully seated before torquing.
11. 11

    Adjust engine position and verify alignment
    With mount fully installed, carefully adjust engine support tension to ensure engine sits at proper ride height with no pre-load on the new mount. Check clearances around the strut to ensure proper spacing and no contact with surrounding components. The mount should have slight tension but not be compressed or extended beyond neutral position.
12. 12

    Remove engine support equipment
    Slowly and carefully release tension from the engine support bar or overhead fixture. Monitor engine position as weight transfers to mounts. The engine should settle smoothly without excessive movement. Remove the support equipment completely. Verify the new mount strut is bearing load properly with no unusual angles or stress.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any air intake components or housings removed for access, ensuring all clamps are tight and connections secure
2. Reinstall engine cover by aligning mounting grommets and pressing down firmly until fully seated
3. Reconnect negative battery terminal and torque to specification
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove all support equipment
5. Clear tools and parts from engine bay and verify nothing was left behind

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle - listen for unusual noises or vibrations that would indicate improper mount installation
• With engine running, observe the engine mount strut for excessive movement, abnormal angles, or any signs of contact with surrounding components
• Apply load by turning steering wheel lock-to-lock while observing mount - engine movement should be controlled and dampened
• Rev engine smoothly from idle to 3000 RPM while observing mount strut - there should be no excessive engine rock or vibration
• Perform a careful test drive, noting any unusual vibrations at idle, during acceleration, or while turning - new mount should eliminate previous vibration issues
• After test drive, re-inspect all mounting bolts for tightness and verify no loosening has occurred
• If any unusual vibration, noise, or engine movement is detected, STOP and re-inspect installation immediately - do not continue driving

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