The Mercedes W221 Rear Axle Cradle Mounting Bracket is a structural component from the category of longitudinal body frame parts and brackets, designed for the rear of the vehicle. It ensures stable mounting of the rear axle cradle, which directly impacts steering precision, suspension geometry, and the durability of the entire drivetrain.
Specifications and technical data
- SKU: A2213503608
- Mark: Mercedes (Genuine OE)
- Condition: Used
- OEM Part Number: A2213503608
- Substitutable numbers: A2213503608, A 221 350 36 08
- Location on the vehicle: Rear
- Category: Frame Rails & Subframes
Purpose and Function in the Vehicle
The Mercedes W221 Rear Axle Cradle Mounting Bracket operates in the rear part of the body, responsible for a rigid and repeatable connection of the cradle (subframe) to the car's structure. A correctly selected and installed bracket:
- stabilizes the position of the rear axle cradle, limiting unwanted movement under load,
- supports the maintenance of correct suspension geometry, leading to predictable vehicle behavior,
- reduces stress in the body by distributing forces from the suspension over a larger structural area.
Thanks to this component, the drivetrain maintains appropriate rigidity, and the vehicle's response to uneven surfaces and maneuvers remains consistent with the manufacturer's specifications.
Construction and Role in the Support System
As a part of the longitudinal body frame parts and brackets category, this element contributes to the load-bearing structure in the rear zone of the vehicle. Its task is not only to hold the cradle but also to:
- transfer dynamic loads from the suspension to the body during acceleration, braking, and cornering,
- limit structural deformation in the rear axle mounting area,
- provide proper mounting points for components cooperating with the cradle.
A correctly selected bracket is particularly important after accident repairs or when replacing worn suspension components, especially when aiming to restore factory stiffness and handling parameters.
Product Characteristics and Application
The offered bracket comes from a Mercedes vehicle and is an original part from the structural body parts group. It is intended for installation in the rear of the vehicle, which is confirmed by its placement on the vehicle. This type of component is particularly useful in situations where:
- mechanical damage has occurred in the rear axle cradle mounting area,
- replacement of the element is necessary due to corrosion or material fatigue,
- a professional accident repair is being carried out with the restoration of suspension mounting points.
By maintaining factory geometry and mounting points, the bracket allows for precise cradle alignment and subsequent adjustment of wheel alignment and camber angles according to the manufacturer's requirements.
Condition, Origin, and Benefits of Choosing a Used Part
The presented bracket is a used part, which is a cost-effective solution for users seeking a reasonable compromise between repair cost and maintaining original structural specifications. Choosing such a component allows for:
- reduced repair costs while maintaining original construction and fit,
- retained mounting compatibility with factory mounting points in the Mercedes W221,
- limited risk of geometry issues compared to parts of uncertain origin.
For additional certainty, you can verify the part's compatibility with the vehicle using the OEM part number and available interchangeable numbers, which are detailed in the product's technical specifications.
Identification and Vehicle Fitment
To correctly select the bracket for a specific body version and suspension configuration, it is advisable to use the manufacturer's markings. The product card provides:
- stock keeping unit (SKU) for easy order processing,
- OEM part number to confirm compatibility with service documentation,
- interchangeable numbers that help identify equivalents used in different model variants.
Before purchasing, it is recommended to compare the data with your vehicle's documentation or consult a mechanic to ensure full mounting compatibility with your specific Mercedes S-Class W221 generation model.
If you need other elements from the Longitudinal body frame parts and brackets category dedicated to this brand, check out the Mercedes longitudinal body frame parts and brackets available in our store to select a complete solution for repairing the rear structure.
For users considering purchasing parts from the secondary market, we recommend an article discussing the practical aspects of choosing such elements – you can find more information in the post Used Car Parts: Myths and Facts You Need to Know. If you are also interested in issues related to operating other brands, including MINI, check out the guide Used Car Parts for Mini Cooper – A Way to Style and Savings, where we discuss the approach to selecting used components in terms of quality and cost-effectiveness.
