Technical Rear subframe

[OAPELF]

Hi all, I’ve used the search function but can’t see an answer already posted.
You guys all seem super cable where I’m not.
So my 2012 Fiat 500 has just failed its MOT on a corroded rear subframe.
That’s the only thing listed, no brakes bushes etc
I’m waiting on a call back from the garage about costings or if it’s economical but they said it’d likely be tomorrow.
I’ve had a google and I can’t really see any rear subframes for sale aside eBay and then a few on car part sites but they all look different
to me:
Looks like anywhere for 2-4 hours labour to fit?
Anyone any idea how much I’m looking at for a new frame? Please.
Just so I’m prepared or can start looking at scrap value before they deal me the blow tomorrow.
(It’s not a main dealer)

 

[jrkitching]

So my 2012 Fiat 500 has just failed its MOT on a corroded rear subframe.

This is very common; it's a known weakness.

Fortunately aftermarket replacement subframes are available at reasonable cost; the final bill will depend very much on how much you can do for yourself.

If you need to have the work done by a garage; the labour will be more, perhaps much more, than the subframe itself.

You may also need to replace various pipes, fittings and bolts; it's hard to properly price a job like this until it's been dismantled.

 

[OAPELF]

Thanks so much for your reply.
That link is also really helpful.
I’m pretty good at basic stuff. Changing there’s, bulbs, battery changed both handles and mended the boot latch etc but fitting a subframe is probably a little past my repertoire, sadly.

 

[John202020]

I've replaced ours, "on the road" I don't have a drive or garage, I do have extensive DIY tools took me a weekend on my own.
You'll need new brake pipes, wheel cylinders, possibly new hand brake cables as well as a new axle. You swap the rear hubs from the old axle to the new, parts Inc axle £220 ish, fitting £400?
Technically there's only 4 bolts and it's off, but it's not quite that simple

 

[jrkitching]

Technically there's only 4 bolts and it's off, but it's not quite that simple

It would be on a brand new car.

On a 10+ yr old one, you're going to need decent tools, patience, and a lot of penetrating oil.

 

[steveras57]

It would be on a brand new car.

On a 10+ yr old one, you're going to need decent tools, patience, and a lot of penetrating oil.

plus a run of dry weather, a lot of patience and time and no distractions!!! as you leave the house say to your family "I AM GOING TO WORK ON THE CAR!" "I MAY BE SOME TIME!

 

[John202020]

plus a run of dry weather, a lot of patience and time and no distractions!!! as you leave the house say to your family "I AM GOING TO WORK ON THE CAR!" "I MAY BE SOME TIME!

Tell me about it still not done the brake pipe on ours was 3 weeks ago it bust, motivation also required

 

[steveras57]

Tell me about it still not done the brake pipe on ours was 3 weeks ago it bust, motivation also required

The longer you leave it the less inclined to do you will be then winter arrives and the car sits unmoved for six months- when you back to it something else has seized so you get peed -off and dont touch it again then in ten years time sell it for a pittance to someone who wants a "project" thus the cycle continues!

 

[John202020]

The longer you leave it the less inclined to do you will be then winter arrives and the car sits unmoved for six months- when you back to it something else has seized so you get peed -off and dont touch it again then in ten years time sell it for a pittance to someone who wants a "project" thus the cycle continues!

I've been practicing making brake pipe ends, lets see what next week brings unless the weekend is ok, there's a car round the corner they removed the engine 7 years ago when we moved in, its still the same way now

 

[Baglady1990]

It would be on a brand new car.

On a 10+ yr old one, you're going to need decent tools, patience, and a lot of penetrating oil.

And tissue as there may be tears! Plasters for cut knuckles and a swearing jar