Putco Chrome Trim Door Handle 401203 on 2040-parts.com

Snake surprise for garage mechanics

MECHANICS attempting to jump-start a car were given a shock when they found a snake under the bonnet. Garage workers in Kelty in Fife called out animal charity the Scottish SPCA after they discovered the 2ft (0.6m) corn snake in the engine of the Fiat Punto they were working on. The reptile, which has been named Punto, is now being looked after at the Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Balerno.

Americans plan to keep their cars longer, AutoPacific study finds

In another chilling sign that auto sales are likely to remain stalled, a new study finds that Americans intend to keep their cars longer, indicating a general concern about the industry and the overall economy. The number of new-car buyers planning to keep their rides more than four years has risen to 59 percent, according to a study released Tuesday by California marketing research firm AutoPacific. That's an increase from last year, when about 45 percent of new buyers intended to wait more than four years for their next purchase, and it's up from 2005's tally of 46 percent.

Kia readies 2015 K900 for luxury-sedan segment

Kia is getting closer to its entry into the full-size luxury category with the 2015 K900, which will go on sale in the first quarter of 2014. The K900 will arrive with two engine configurations. The most powerful is a 5.0-liter Tau V8 making 420 hp.