Recall
– Chrysler is recalling 86,333 2006 Dodge Ram pickups because their front-wheel bearings may not have enough grease. The problem can cause noise and vibration that could lead to a loss of control and a crash. Dealers will replace the front hub and bearing units for free.
Safety
– The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation into 2006-07 Jeep Commander sport-utility vehicles after receiving 50 complaints about stalling and loss of lights while driving.
– The agency is investigating 2004-06 Pontiac GTO sedans over 69 complaints that rubbing by a strut is causing tire failures. About 41,000 of the performance cars with V-8 engines may be affected, the agency says. GM stopped building the GTO last June.
FYI
– General Motors has extended $500 rebates on 2006 and 2007 models through Feb. 28. GM began the offers Feb. 13 after its U.S. sales fell 17 percent in January. GM spent an average of $2,221 a vehicle for incentives in January, down about 21 percent from December, according to Autodata Corp. Ford and Chrysler Group reduced incentive spending about 2 percent last month, to an average of $4,228 for Ford and $3,674 for Chrysler, according to Autodata.
– Toyota, which retains customers largely because of a reputation for quality, is concerned that a dramatic increase in recalls and customer service campaigns in fiscal 2005 and 2006 could stunt its growth. In a presentation about challenges facing Toyota in North America, Seiichi Sudo, president of its North American engineering and manufacturing unit, cites “the increasing recall trend” as a risk. Warranty claims, however, have declined, a sign that quality is being maintained.
– Car racing returns to Detroit Labor Day weekend after a five-year absence. The city council has approved a five-year contract with the nonprofit Downtown Detroit Partnership to organize the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. The American Le Mans Series, which features sports cars including Corvettes, will be Sept. 1. The Indy Racing League will compete in the Grand Prix Sept. 2.
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Quick Trips are compiled from the notebooks of Jim Mateja and Rick Popely, and from Tribune news services.
