DaimlerChrysler, Hino Issue Recalls

The Associated Press, TOKYO — DaimlerChrysler's Japan unit issued a recall for 3,668 Mercedes-Benz minivans over a gas hose defect, while Japan's Hino Motors plans to recall 21,427 light trucks for a front suspension defect, the companies said Tuesday.

DaimlerChrysler Japan Co. told Japan's Transport Ministry that is recalling 3,668 German-manufactured Mercedes-Benz Viano minivans imported since 2003 over the defect, automaker said in a statement

The defect involves a fuel hose connector that can be loosened by engine vibrations, possibly leading to fuel leaks, the company said. The defect could cause the engine to stop, it said.The company also issued a recall for 248 imported Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager minivans from the 2005 model year because of a windshield wiper motor defect that can cause the wiper arms to break, according to the Transport Ministry.

The recall was issued after the company received reports of the defect from unspecified overseas locations, the ministry said.

DaimlerChrysler plans to replace the defective parts on all of the minivans affected by Tuesday's recalls, it said.

Meanwhile, Hino Motors Ltd. told the Transport Ministry it is recalling 12,358 Dutro light trucks because of a front suspension defect, according to a statement from the company.

The recall also affects another 9,069 Toyota-branded Dyna and Toyoace light trucks, the ministry said. Hino produces the trucks for Toyota Motor Corp. on commission.

The defect can result in damage to the stabilizer link, leading the front suspension's stabilizer to drop in a worst-case scenario, Hino said.

The company said it will examine and replace as necessary the parts involved on all the trucks being recalled. It was not immediately clear if any of the trucks being recalled were sold overseas.

There have been no reports of accidents due to any of the defects reported Tuesday, according to the Transport Ministry.