Suzuki Motor Corp. Joint Venture in China Recalls 157,480 Altos

SHANGHAI, China September 9, 2004; The AP reported that a joint venture between Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp. and Chongqing Changan Automobile Co. has recalled 157,480 Alto model cars, Changan Automobile said Thursday.

Problems with the oil pipes of the cars prompted the recall, the Chinese company, based in the southwestern city of Chongqing, said in a statement posted on its Web site.

The recall involves one type of Alto car model produced between Sept. 4, 1999 and March 26, 2004, Changan Suzuki said.

The oil pipes of the affected cars may become dislodged if the cars shake violently, possibly leading to wear and tear of the oil pipes, the statement said.

The company will pay for all repair costs associated with the recall, it said.

Apart from its venture with Suzuki, Changan Automobile has a 50-50 joint venture with Ford Motor Co.