Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2011 Ford Escape 2WD L4-2.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Rear Subframe: Service and Repair
SUBFRAME - REAR
Subframe - Rear:
Removal
All vehicles
1. NOTICE: Suspension and subframe fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital parts and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
Vehicles with all All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
2. Remove the rear axle assembly.
All vehicles
3. Remove the rear stabilizer bar link upper nuts.
4. Remove the 4 bolts and position the 4 rear control arms aside.
5. Remove and discard the exhaust hanger from the subframe.
6. With an assistant, remove the 4 bolts and the rear subframe.
Installation
All vehicles
1. With an assistant, position the rear subframe and install the bolts.
- To install, tighten the rear bolts to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
- To install, tighten the front bolts to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
2. Install a new exhaust hanger on the subframe.
3. NOTE: The vehicle must be at ride height before tightening the bolts.
Position the 4 rear control arms into the subframe.
- Loosely install the bolts.
4. Install the rear stabilizer bar link upper nuts.
- Tighten to 48 Nm (35 lb-ft).
Vehicles with AWD
5. Install the rear axle assembly.
All vehicles
6. Tighten the 4 rear control arms bolts.
- Tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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