If your subframe is cracked already then it's too late for welding the plates. It's your safety...don't be cheap and compromise. That said, if it's not cracked the plate kit was cheap and the recall paid about 3.5 hours to weld in. Replacing the subframe was a little more labor intensive, but not much. It's been over 10 years since I've done one but we used to get them towed in broken all the time. I would recommend calling your local dealer and get the phone # for the local factory rep, that will be your best bet to get it covered by MBUSA. Keep in mind that your car is 25 years old now and they may not care. However, if any car company would help you out I think it would be MBUSA.