What You Should Know Before Replacing a Subframe on Your Classic Car?

There’s no doubt vintage cars’ subframes were built to last. Still, nothing lasts forever. Even with dedicated care, normal wear and tear will eventually cause the component to deteriorate beyond repair.

When that happens, your only option is to have the subframe replaced. However, this is a significant decision and one you shouldn’t make lightly. So, here are a few things you’ll need to make an informed decision before you take your car to a shop that offers subframe and chassis swap services in Orange County.

Can a subframe be replaced?

Although the subframe is a crucial structural part of your car, it’s still just that – a part. It follows the same principles as other car parts – they’re all replaceable. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t something you should ever attempt to do on your own.

Subframe replacement is an advanced task that requires a lot of finesse, knowledge, and the right tools. Therefore, it’s best to let professionals take care of it since even small mistakes can be disastrous for your classic car.

Is it worth replacing a subframe?

Whether investing in a subframe replacement is the best course of action will depend on several factors, including:

The state of the vehicle

Before even thinking of swapping the subframe, have professionals check the overall state of the car. If there’s severe wear on other integral parts, whether connected to the subframe or otherwise, you may need to replace or fix other parts first before a new subframe can be safely fitted.

The severity of damage

The degree of subframe damage can vary, along with appropriate actions to remedy it. When the damage is minor, professionals can clean and weld the subframe without too much trouble. Still, be aware that this is just a temporary fix. It may last for a few years but, sooner or later, you will have to replace the subframe.

However, major subframe damage can severely compromise the integrity of the attached parts, and even endanger the passengers. In these cases, complete subframe replacement is strongly recommended.

The extent of the damage

Make sure the damage is localized to the subframe. If the rust has spread to the primary frame, it can jeopardize the structural integrity of your vehicle. Deteriorating bushings can cause numerous issues with attached components, which can lead to bigger problems.

However, if you caught the issue on time and the damage didn’t spread too much, replacing the subframe will ensure you can take those scenic rides through Laguna Canyon for many years to come.

How much does it cost to replace a subframe?

Subframe replacement isn’t cheap. First, the part itself is expensive, especially for classic cars. It can cost anywhere from a few hundred for a used part, to well above a thousand dollars for a custom-made car component.

Second, the subframe swap is labor-intensive. If you're lucky, the whole process will take two to three hours. Assuming, of course, that the subframe is the only part that needs to be replaced, which is rarely the case.

So, the entire ordeal will cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. There’s a silver lining, however. In the majority of cases, replacing the subframe is actually cheaper than repairing a severely damaged one.

What’s the most reliable shop that offers subframe and chassis swap services in Orange County?

Want to make sure your classic car stays functional and eye-catchingly beautiful for many years to come? If so, don't hesitate to reach out to Chimera Motors. Our experienced technicians are here to provide you with a broad array of vintage car repair, maintenance, painting, and restoration services that will keep your oldtimer purring for many years to come.

Visit our shop in Orange County today, or give us a call if you'd like to learn more about who we are and why we're the best.