I own a Ford Ranger and the frame where the leaf springs attach has completely rotted out! is there anything I can do?

- Rochester, NY, USA

Rear of frame has rusted away. Rear bumper is ready to fall off. Left spring up against bed floor. This truck has the original exhaust on it no other problems ever I use Ford 5W20 syn. Blend oil, changed every 3,000 miles. Guess I wasted all that money"? I get 24 miles to the gal. Highway. Now I cant take it there. Still looks good setting in my driveway. I am 68 yrs.old, my only veh. No money for another vec. Now what???" thanks for letting me ramble.........[xxx] information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

- Hiram, OH, USA

Rear wheel assembly (wheels, axle, leaf-springs) became detached from frame due to severe and premature frame and leaf-spring bracket corrosion (failure caused abrupt pull to center of highway at speed, fortunately no accident, since I am a pretty good driver). Subsequent inspection revealed extensive corrosion associated with vehicle frame and critical suspension components. Leaf spring brackets and various other suspension components noted to be manufactured from ultra-low carbon steel (known to turn to dust when exposed to weather). Vehicle is a 2001 with only 113,000 miles; truck is basically junk at this point with no chance of replacing the numerous components effected. I replaced the leaf-spring brackets; however I am fearful to drive the vehicle since it may kill me. Good job Ford instilling customer safety, satisfaction and quality engineering. Hope the few bucks you saved by using sub-standard materials on critical suspension components was worth it. I guarantee my family will never purchase another Ford product. -husband, father of two...

- Georgetown, PA, USA