Something Rotten (Beneath)

In vehicle workshops, the subframe – the structural member that connects the engine, transmission, and axles to the vehicle body (sometimes also called the engine cradle or axle carrier) – was once rarely a concern. Built from high-quality steel, sometimes galvanized or made of aluminium, it usually only needed replacing after an accident. But things have changed in recent years.

The quality of many subframes has declined. At the same time, cars are staying on the road longer, changing owners more frequently, and often only receiving the bare minimum of maintenance. Few people ever bother to check what lies beneath.
But they should. Moisture, road salt, stone chippings, and sand attack the protective coating of the subframe, causing rust or tearing the rubber in the mounts. Eventually, the part needs to be replaced. Warning signs include unusual suspension noises, imprecise steering, the car pulling to one side when braking, or uneven tyre wear. When replacement is necessary, we’ve got you covered: Our portfolio includes 62 different subframes.

And a final tip: During the installation, it should first be sealed with warmed wax and grease, especially around welds and overlapping panels. An underbody wash after winter also helps. That way, the stage is set for a longer life – with less chance of discovering “something rotten beneath,” as Shakespeare might have put it.