News In Brief

Ford Transit recall....and more

Recall for Transit, electric motors get greener, worn suspension is a pain the back for drivers....and more

Auto Express Car Reviews

29th April 2008

Axle fault forces Transit callback
Bad news for white van man. Ford is recalling nearly 25,000 Transits because of a risk that the axle shaft could come loose. All models built between December 2003 (53-reg) and April 2006 (06-reg) are being called back to dealers to have the axle’s retaining clip replaced. The problem can be identified by excessive noise and changes in the van’s handling.

Branching out to reduce emissions
Scientists are making electric vehicles even more eco-friendly – by burning waste wood that would normally go to landfill. Government agency DEFRA says the biomass could be used instead of coal to generate electricity to power cars. It claims that two million tonnes of waste wood could produce 2,600gigawatts and save 1.15 million tonnes of CO2 from being pumped into the atmosphere.

Shock news over driving backache
Ever suffered from backache at the wheel? According to a new survey by Kwik-Fit, your seat may not be to blame – it could be worn suspension. One in three motorists found faulty springs caused their discomfort. However, it’s not only backs which suffer – a worn shock absorber can add up to two metres to braking distances from 30mph.

Saab convertible gets breezy boost
Messy hair could be a thing of the past when driving Saab’s 9-3 Convertible with the top down – as the car is now being offered with a wind deflector. Saab claims the device reduces wind buffeting to the same levels experienced when walking. Wind chill is also reduced. The deflector is available at Saab dealers, priced £349.95.