VW Recalling 5,000 R32s in the USA over Fuel Tank Problem

Today Volkswagen announced it is recalling 5,000 MY2008 R32s (that's the fifth-generation Golf R32 for the rest of the world) in the USA due to a defective fuel tank ventilation valve. The German automaker said that when certain driving conditions are accompanied by high ambient temperatures, the valve may not remain fully closed. As well as causing performance issues (i.e., vehicle jerking), the problematic valve may lead to a fuel may leak, which as you all know, could result to a vehicle fire in the presence of an ignition source.

Volkswagen said that its dealers will replace the fuel tank ventilation valve with an improved valve free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during April 2009, but for more information, owners can contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-822-8987.

GM and Ford Offer New Hyundai-Style Protection Plan for Buyers

In an attempt to 'jump-start' sales and encourage people to enter the new car market, General Motors and Ford Motor Company decided to follow in the footsteps of Hyundai by announced today the launch of new protection plans that offer to make payments to customers that lose their job.

Specifically, GM's "Total Confidence" plan provides up to nine months of payments on vehicle loans or leases ($500 max/month) if buyers lose their job for economic reasons, while Ford's "Advantage Plan" will cover payments for up to 12 months on any new Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle if customers lose their jobs.