A subframe is a major structural component that’s supposed to last the life of the vehicle. However, there are instances where the subframe can become damaged or rusted to the point where it can no longer do its job.
The thing is, replacing a subframe can be quite costly—which is probably why you’re here, looking for the most cost-efficient way to address the problem.
Your local repair facility or collision center may have mentioned that your car needs a new subframe. But wait—what is a subframe, anyhow?
To get a better understanding of subframes, it helps to know the difference between the two primary methods for constructing a vehicle: body-on-frame and unibody.
Body-on-Frame – With a traditional body-on-frame design, the vehicle’s body sits on top of a full-length frame.
Unibody – with a unibody design (also called a monocoque), the body and frame are integrated into a single unit.
Subframes are typically found in vehicles that have a unibody construction. A subframe is a structural unit (basically, a mini frame) that serves as a mounting point for the engine, steering, suspension, and other critical assemblies.
While a traditional frame typically runs the length of the vehicle, a subframe, which is sometimes called an engine cradle, is smaller and sits at the front of the vehicle.
If you live in a location where there’s heavy salt on the road during the winter, you may eventually encounter a severely rusted subframe. The issue is not only a safety hazard, but it may also cause your car to fail a state inspection (if that’s a requirement where you live).
Despite what you read on the internet, you should not attempt to repair a severely rusted subframe. The subframe is a structural part of the vehicle—and patching it up can compromise its integrity.
When there’s severe rust, replacing the subframe is the only recommended method of repair. But before you move forward, you’ll want to assess the rust damage to the rest of the vehicle. Replacing the subframe doesn’t make sense if the car as a whole is withering away.
Subframes can also become bent or tweaked as a result of collision or impact damage. A mangled subframe can cause other parts of the vehicle (e.g., motor mounts and suspension components) to wear out prematurely. Furthermore, the issue can throw off the vehicle’s wheel alignment, resulting in steering issues that compromise safety.
Body shops have special equipment that can often repair full-length frames. A shop may be able to do the same with a subframe. But, in most cases, replacement is a more cost-effective alternative due to labor expenses.
Ignoring subframe issues can lead to safety risks like compromised structural integrity, poor handling, increased wear, and noise/vibrations.
The subframe supports the engine, transmission, and suspension. Damage to the frame may compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity, making it dangerous to drive.
Similarly, a damaged subframe affects the vehicle’s alignment and handling, which could lead to poor stability. This may result in over or understeering and an overall lack of control over your car.
Damage to the subframe may also lead to accelerated wear caused by uneven stress on other vehicle components. Some parts that may be affected include the tires, suspension, and steering systems.
Lastly, you may also notice noise and vibrations, depending on the severity of the damage. If the subframe damage affects wheel alignment, it may cause excessive vibration while driving, making for an uncomfortable ride and compromising the vehicle’s safety.
Having a professional replace your car’s subframe can cost thousands of dollars. The high price tag is the result of the subframe being expensive and replacement being labor-intensive. Your car must also undergo a wheel alignment once the job is complete.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
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Hi my name is Camille - I drive a 2012 audi a4 s line. I was driving in a parking lot and I felt and heard a bang thin something started to drag on the ground. Looked underneath and my lower control arm is on the ground and noticed it broke the sub frame!!?? On the driver's side. Only one of the mount holes is broke. Had someone put the bolt back in the mount that's still there. I have no money or someone who can help me with the cost of the parts and labor. I need help in what direction is best and if you know any one who can help me with this. Thank you. P.s you would not believe the picture it's horrible!
Hello Camille,
It's hard to say what direction you should go without seeing the vehicle in person. Your best bet might be to find a shop that's willing to locate and install a used subframe for you. Good luck!
I have a 2008 ford focus with 150,000 miles. I need my front sud-frame replaced. The car has some rust on the body but other than that it's good. My question is should I fix it or look for a new car? I don't know if this is a good car to put money into? This is my second car that I was going to let my 15 year old daughter have for her first car. Also can u estimate a cost? I know you don't know with looking but what's my highest and lowest I could be possibly looking at?
Hello,
You might be able to find a repair shop that's willing to put in a used subframe for you. The subframe is bolted to the vehicle and can be removed without any cutting or welding, so it's a doable repair. We recommend calling a few local shops for an estimate.
I have a 2006 Saab 93 convertible. NY winters have rusted the sub frame or engine cradle and it will not pass inspection. My mechanic said I need to find a cradle/ subframe,engine cradle bracket/stay bracket and 2 plates. How do I find out the part numbers to call junk yards. I'm having a hard time explaining what I am looking for and my repair shop is not helping.
Hi Vicki,
Unfortunately, we don't carry the subframe for your vehicle. The subframe should be easy enough for a junkyard to understand, but you'll likely need to get more information on what brackets are required. If your mechanic isn't willing to give you more information or do the legwork for you, you might want to consider going to a different shop that's more helpful.
Im picking up a 2008 infiniti g35 with 100,000 miles on it and they said the subframe was bent and it is like a 10-20 minute drive back to where I need to put the car do you think it would be worth it?
Hello,
We don't recommend driving a vehicle that could potentially be unsafe, even for a short distance.
I'm looking for front subframe bushings 1995 Cadillac sedan deville
Hi I have a 2008 dodge avenger my subframe cracked and I have a replacement but the brackets are wrong.. do those brackets come off and can they be changed to a different kind of bracket?
I have a 2007 Dodge caliber and the back subframe is broken does it make sense in having someone to replace it or should I just forget about it it is pretty rested under there.
I have a subframe with moderate rust issues. I am wondering if I can use JB Weld or similar type metal/weld glue as a fix. I am thinking about using a bit of wire mesh also in between the rust spots and the weld glue
I have a 2011 G37x infiniti coupe and The right front subframe is rotted out from rust. Should I fix or don’t bother trade it in. 141,000 miles