Subframe possibly rotted

2011 FORD ESCAPE

130,000 MILES • 3.0L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

DANIELJAMES580

MEMBER
1 POST

Hi, so the dealer I bought my listed above from three years ago is telling me that the subframe is rotten to the point where it's unsafe to drive.. I just looked at it and I don't think they're telling me the truth.. I took a picture of it.. can you look at the picture and give me your opinion?

Image (Click to enlarge)

Aug 22, 2021 at 4:47 PM

SQM

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Without physically looking at the subframe it is difficult to provide a solid opinion.
However it does look to be rusted severely (see where is circled). It could have compromised structural integrity. As you an see through the rusted metal. It does not appear to be safe.

Let me know if you have any questions.

https://www.youtube.com/c/2carpros/featured

Thank you.

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Aug 22, 2021 at 8:26 PM

STEVE W.

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
15,200 POSTS

I would tend to agree with the dealer if the rest of the sub-frame looks the same as the image. That large rust hole SQM circled is a very bad sign as it means that more metal around it is as bad and just hasn't fallen out yet. That said it could be repaired as that is a bolt in part. It might also be possible to patch the part depending on what the rest of it looks like.

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Aug 22, 2021 at 11:29 PM

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