Engine Cradle Failure

[Redhousefarm]

I have a 2010 Legacy and the Engine Cradle has completely rusted away. The rest of the car is in good shape. I contacted Subaru to see if this could be a safety recall but they only offered me a small discount on the part. Wondering if anyone else has had this problem?

[motorbreath]

Same thing for mine, the design is not ideal for climates with winters and salt. I went to an independent mechanic outside of Toronto and had the subframe replaced for a little over 2000CAD, main expense was the subframe and not labor.

 

I had the lower control arms replaced, many bushings and other things that were made really accessible. I didn't bother trying to push the dealership for a discount since they wanted much much more for the repair...

[Redhousefarm]

I am in Massachusetts where they use plenty of Sodium Chloride. A friend mechanic estimates $600 US (plus beer!) for labor. Then parts and the tow to the shop since it is undriveable. It is just aggravating and makes me want to sell my newer Subaru. Thanks!

[Jsk_412]

The same thing happened to me a few months ago. I have a 2010 Legacy and the front subframe rails were rusted through. I picked up a replacement subframe (k frame?) at a parts salvage near me for like $150 or so. Cleaned it up and sprayed some sort of undercoating all over it so it hopefully won't rust.

 

The install wasn't terrible but I was able to throw it on a lift, which was super super helpful. It is pretty straightforward for the most part. The most difficult part was the fasteners on and around the steering rack. It is very tight in there, so ratcheting wrenches are a must, but there still isn't much clearance so I would definitely recommend getting a set of crowfoot wrenches!!!

 

I can't say how long it took me because I replaced basically all of the front suspension at that time and broke some bolts taking the struts off. It is probably a full day of work if you do it from jackstands though.

 

Pb Blaster, torch, and some drill bits will make things much easier just incase. I picked up a set of cobalt drill bits, cobalt left-handed bits, and extractors off of amazon for like maybe $50 after breaking well over that in the crappy ti bits that lowes and home depot carry. Well worth it imo!!

[motorbreath]

I think it would have been more than a day's work for me! I stopped by the mechanic I had do the work, there were definitely a bunch of annoying issues and they were using a torch liberally.

 

I definitely do not think this would be a good DIY project unless you have a decent amount of skill, just supporting the engine properly discouraged me from trying.

 

I can't say how long it took me because I replaced basically all of the front suspension at that time and broke some bolts taking the struts off. It is probably a full day of work if you do it from jackstands though.

[Redhousefarm]

Thank you everyone. Today my 7 year old grandson said "Grampa's Subaru is the 1 out of 10 that is not still on the road."

[4thsubaru]

Same thing for mine, the design is not ideal for climates with winters and salt. I went to an independent mechanic outside of Toronto and had the subframe replaced for a little over 2000CAD, main expense was the subframe and not labor.

 

I had the lower control arms replaced, many bushings and other things that were made really accessible. I didn't bother trying to push the dealership for a discount since they wanted much much more for the repair...

 

Curious where did you buy the subframe from in Ontario. I have been looking but other than dealers I can't seem to find.

 

Thanks.

[motorbreath]

I bought it from the dealer, need to get the car back on the road fast

 

Curious where did you buy the subframe from in Ontario. I have been looking but other than dealers I can't seem to find.

 

Thanks.