Volvo Penta Tensioner Trim Instrument 872498 on 2040-parts.com

Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mazda recall 3.4 million cars over Airbag fault

As recalls go, 3.4 million cars around the globe is a big number, but it’s that big because a parts supplier - Takata Corp – supplied the same airbag part to Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mazda, so the recall involves all four Japanese car makers. The part at fault could cause the airbag inflator to rupture and deploy the airbag abnormally, although there have been no reports of injuries due to the potentially faulty part and just five reports of the fault existing – three in the US and two in Japan. In the UK the number of cars affected – and do note the recall only affects cars sold between 2000 and 2004 – appears to be about 75,000 for Toyota, 60,000 for Nissan, 15,000 for Honda and 2.000 for Mazda, and all four car makers will be getting in touch with owners during the next month to book their cars in for free replacement of the part.

Pontiac Vibe: GM to kill model in August

The Pontiac Vibe is meeting its demise in August. General Motors said Thursday afternoon that it will end production of the small wagon as part of its long-term viability plan and the wind-down of the Pontiac brand. Production of Vibes for the 2010 model year began in March.

Uwe Gemballa missing in South Africa

Uwe Gemballa Update 16/2/2010: We’re now hearing reports that the Gemballa business has been closed down by German authorities. The name Uwe Gemballa might not immediately strike a chord. Unless you’re a complete petrol-head the creations of Uwe and his eponymous company may have passed you by.