NHTSA Complaint #11490633 — 2011 JEEP PATRIOT

Jeep Patriot 2011 Latitude with severe corrosion to front and rear subframe assemblies. Noted for recent emergence of clunking sound on front end when passing over dips and bumps. Made arrangement for towing of vehicle to personal mechanic to check out and also make state inspection. Noted to have severe fracture of front subframe then resting on axle and wheel assemblage parts. Rear subframe member in same condition with ability to poke holes through structural member. Conditiion resulted in failure to pass inspection. Vehicle deemed unsafe to drive. Further deterioration expected with potential for loss of steering or wheel falling off. Liability for accident or bodily harm in potential failure noted. Vehicle later towed to another mechanic with same determination. Vehicle towed to local body shop where Insurance agent denied accountability for collision or comprehensive coverage. Damage initially assessed at about $900 per part with accessory components to be added at discovery. Issue is well known to manufacturer via many complaint website postings I have since learned. Vehicle towed to another body shop which will assess and complete repair if practical. Second shop said they had repaired similar vehicle for same problem recently. Noted that subframes were manufactured in Mexico. This is inappropriate for regional application in Pennsylvania noted for harsh climate and road treatment. That vehicle was restored with Canada manufactured part of heavier gauge and quality. My vehicle is low mileage at 79000 miles, garage kept, driven locally only;engine fine. I have 2008 Town and Country Chryler and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with NO OBVIOUS signs of such wear. The corrosive factor accelerated since last inspection in Dec 2021. There were NO WARNING lights or signs upon emergence of the problem. This is serious safety issue where unexpectedly steering loss or wheel displacement could result in accident to self or others or crash.