– Volkswagen is extending the warranty for 1998- 2004 Passats and 1997-2004 Audi A4s that have a 1.8-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine because of problems caused by oil sludge. The warranty will go from a five-year, 50,000-mile warranty to eight years with no mileage limit on repairs related to sludge. Letters are being sent to 400,000 Passat and A4 owners to notify them of the change.
– BMW is positioning itself as a symbol of democracy in South Africa. BMW’s South African operations will produce 10 “Democracy Cars,” special versions of the 3-Series signed by Nelson Mandela, that will be auctioned this year. Two will be auctioned by BMW of North America and the rest in South Africa, which this year celebrates its 10th anniversary of democratic elections. Proceeds will go to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund.
