need help or advice

[salamander162]

hello everybody:
i was changing the oil in my 2004 vibe gt when i notice a lose bolt, try to tighten it but won't do, how bad is it like that?
can be fixed?
TIA

[VibeNation2024]

It is difficult to determine from your picture exactly what this bolt is holding/securing but it definately looks like a hardened bolt that serves a purpose. Plus any car manufacturer doesn't just add bolts, nuts, washers, etc for no reason!

It looks like the edges of the arm/plate are welded so it must have broken out of the hole that is above it.

I tried to do a google image search but it did not return any helpful results. Could you provide more detail on what this is connected to, where located, what it supports, etc? Is there another one on the other side? Does this part flex or have any movement?

Also, you have probably been driving for a bit with this so have you noticed any unusual handling, rattle noises, vibration, etc?

Some of the other members might have some input but please reply so we can get you fixed up!

[salamander162]

thanks for the promt reply

i think is the subframe, there is another bolt in the same position in the other side but is tight
and yes i been geting some noises when in reverse , a sharp crack, also a lot to rattle noises when passing on potholes, i checked the control arm, tie rod ends, both in and outer, sway bars, struts are ok but the passanger side cv joint

[VibeNation2024]

Thanks for the details and I would agree that it appears to be part of the front crossmember subframe. I attached a picture of the subframe that I think it is. The picture when not installed so that is why there is no mounting hardware.

As far as getting the bolt out, I'm not sure if you can see if there is enough bolt threads left to grab in order to break it free or if you will need to use penetrating spray, easy out, cut it off, etc.

[salamander162]

the bolt spins freely in the hole, can't remove it,try to see if i can see on the other side but no avail, i guess the the other part, that should be fix ,is broken

[VibeNation2024]

You will probably have to cut off the bolt and use an easy out if it is broken in the othe part. You might need a lift since trying to do this with jacks/stands will not give you enough room to work. I don't have first hand expirience with this but would think it could be accomplished without dropping the subframe...that would be a lot of work!

Hope one of the other members has some expirience and could provide input.

[salamander162]

i have no idea how to fix this problem
thanks for your help

[VibeNation2024]

There are some youtube videos and previous threads on the subject if you are struggling. You could also bring it to a shop so they could inspect the damage and ensure there isn't secondary damage due to the flex/vibration of this being unsecured. Unless it is rusted out or snapped off...I would not expect it to be expensive.

[andrewclaus]

That's the bolt that holds the floor structural member to the front suspension. The floor member might be broken. Fixing it might be a body shop issue.

[VibeNation2024]

Thanks for confirming Andrew! Appreciate it greatly!

[andrewclaus]

If I had to repair that bolt at this point in my car's life, I'd try to find someone who would weld the body member to the cross frame. That would probably be a body shop. I'd get their professional opinion, at least.

[salamander162]

That's the bolt that holds the floor structural member to the front suspension. The floor member might be broken. Fixing it might be a body shop issue.

Thanks for the info
ask some mechanics and they don't know how to fix it
i love that little car and i hate to put it to sleep

[VibeNation2024]

Definately get another opinion! As Andrew mentioned, recommend that you check with a body shop. It might a fix like welding a plate to give support.