I have started researching a panda I have seen one and on not history there is a fail for front subframe insecure. Has anyone any experience of subframe mounts failing it corrosion in this area.

Triumph1959 said:

I have started researching a panda I have seen one and on not history there is a fail for front subframe insecure. Has anyone any experience of subframe mounts failing it corrosion in this area.

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..no response in A Day..

I read it as loose bolts.. or worn rubbers

Not corrosion..

Check all the subframe mounting bolts from under the car. The inner ends of the threads can get rusted so they'll seize half way out and may well shear off if forced. If someone has had a go, they might have left a bolt seized part way out - causing your problem. A "tight" bolt with loose washer with be a clue.

To much force will shear off the bolt. Seized or sheared-off, it will need an access hole(s) cutting into the floor to clean the protruding threads or to drill them out and weld new nuts onto the back side.

Triumph1959 said:

I have started researching a panda I have seen one and on not history there is a fail for front subframe insecure. Has anyone any experience of subframe mounts failing it corrosion in this area.

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Not enough information to come to any conclusion.

insecure on a MOT is a broad description. Basically they gave seen movement and haven't investigated further.

Loose bolt or corrosion neither are common.

You need to get underneath with a hefty prybar and see what's going on. What does the test technician have to say on the issue?

DaveMcT said:

You need to get underneath with a hefty prybar and see what's going on. What does the test technician have to say on the issue?

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Its not in their posession..

Thank you I have not got a panda yet I just saw this comment on one for sale I was wondering if there was a common problem with them

do you need the 4x4 ?


there are a couple common faults with the proshaft and centre bearing which wear and adds to the running costs

Triumph1959 said:

Thank you I have not got a panda yet I just saw this comment on one for sale I was wondering if there was a common problem with them

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Sorry - my Bad.

Lets suppose it's a worst case where the bolt has been partly unscrewed and seized or even snapped off. The fix is to cut a hole in the floor panel above the bolt (taking care not to cut anything structural underneath). The bolt can then be removed by whatever method and a new bolt fitted. The hole is them welded up again.

I would budget £200 for a professional but that is a guess as there might be more than one. It really should knock at least £500 of the value because you don't know what else could be lurking underneath. There could be good reasons, but if it was an easy fix why has the seller not done it?

Check current prices for similar spec cars and adjust your offer accordingly

The 4x4 driveshaft turns all of the time so its bearings and flexible joints get worn. Re-conditioned parts are available but as @koalar says it does add to running costs.