Subframe item number

[Fionamacd10]

Hi, 

The subframe on my 2010 Audi A3 Hatchback is about to go, car runs well and no other issues with it. 

I'm looking to get a subframe for it, unfortunately I can't afford brand new, so need to find a decent second hand frame. I can't find the part number on it, so looking to see if anyone knows it. 

Any help us appreciated, love the car and want to keep it for a few years longer

[Magnet]

Welcome and thanks for joining Fiona,

Secondhand subframes?? - you could end up buying your own!

Have you tried IM (I think) Axles. They manufacture new subframes for some vehicles - Audi A3-? but certainly worth investigating? We have bought from them for a family member’s Ford, and the quality is better than Ford’s original, and at a snip at the price. 
Perhaps you could let us know how you get on. 
Kind regards,

Gareth. 

[Fionamacd10]

I'm just looking just now, but would be grateful for any advice. It's a part number I need as I don't want to order the wrong one. 

I've been offered on, but it's from a 2014 A3, so don't think this is suitable as there will possibly be a size issue between the models. 

 

[cliffcoggin]

Fiona.

Before you pay out for another subframe, are you sure the rest of the car is sound? I appreciate that the salty air in your location probably contributed to the subframe's corrosion, but it seems unlikely only that one part has suffered while the rest is in good condition.

[Fionamacd10]

It seems to be, but possible that subframe had issue before I got it. Just need it for a run around until it totally goes, engine runs well, exterior is in good condition, inside is perfect. Just don't want to go spending on a brand new subframe if car will only last a few more years. It's 14, so i'm not expecting it to go on much after this. 

[Magnet]

Hello again Fiona, 

Seems you are still chasing the secondhand route then. 
Do you intend to investigate the IM Axles route? Figures:- Ford KA from IMA, with heavier duty spring pads was less than £200. Ford price c£1400. 
If you are going secondhand then I’m struggling to see how a part number will be the answer to the maiden’s prayer, since it’s highly unlikely that the part number will have survived as a readable number on the secondhand part you are intending to buy - so what good is it to you? 
Only possible scenario where it could be useful would be where the seller (scrap yard?) has access to part numbers via. a VIN enquiry. In which situation- he inputs your VIN and obtains your subframe part no. then does the same with the breaking vehicle, and compares the two for compatibility - in which case he doesn’t need you to tell him! 
Secondhand? You buy one and yours is removed and it’s found the replacement isn’t identical - what then??

I think it was Stevey Y on here who referred to a part number retrieving website called LLL?? Am I right? Is it still operating?

Kind regards,

Gareth. 

 

[Fionamacd10]

Hi Gareth, 

I can see where you're coming from with regards to asking for the part number, but it reduces my time in asking lots of questions. Most of the ones I'm being offered are from 2013 onwards which will not fit, this is even after giving them the plate number.  Due to my location getting items here is pretty expensive at the best of times, I was quoted £600 for a new frame, which is totally unrealistic for a car this age. Second hand route will do for now, if I don't find one, I will look at your suggestion and pass the info onto my mechanic. 

[Magnet]

Hello Fiona,

Where is the £600 new quote coming from, and how does that compare with Audi’s estimate? 
‘….totally unrealistic……..’ Have you had a quote for removing old and fitting replacement, and are you also catering for some new bushes and probably suspension links which are likely to need replacing.

Take it we are talking rear rather than front subframe -? 
Kind regards,

Gareth. 

[Fionamacd10]

Hi Gareth, that quote is from Audi, rather expensive and not worth putting on a 14yo car.  That was frame only.  Family member (30yrs+ Mechanic) is doing the work, but finding it hard to find the right subframe, majority are 2013 onwards. Yes, aware of bushes and links, this is another think in the process. The joys of trying to save an old car. 

[Magnet]

Thanks Fiona, 

A lot of money? Yes. Cheaper than I would have thought from Audi? Yes. 
What sort of price are you thinking of paying? 
£600 divided by the hoped for 5 additional years service, equates to £120 a year - not bad? 
Kind regards,

Gareth.