The news that Volvo...
The news that Volvo is recalling nearly half a million cars (35,000 in Britain) due to a fire risk from short-circuited radiator fan motors is just the latest safety scare. Last year, it called back 360,000 US models for engine speed control faults. But the Swedish firm is by no means an exception. In 2002, Ford recalled 600,000 mainly US Focuses over a fire safety issue and, two years ago, 360,000 models were affected by potentially faulty rear-door latches. Last year, Toyota recalled one million cars for steering problems; in the States, it called back more vehicles than it had sold. In Japan, the company became the subject of a criminal investigation over allegations that it delayed a safety recall for eight years following a steering defect on its best-selling Hilux model.
Bluetooth wireless technology...
Bluetooth wireless technology has already revolutionised the way we use our mobile phones in the car. And now, DIY mechanics are set to benefit, too – thanks to the latest kit from GEAR4.
The firm’s new Bluphones bring music to the workshop, and also double as a hands-free device, so you don’t get oil and grease all over your phone when answering a call. They link to compatible mobiles and play MP3 digital music files stored in the memory. However, if you get a call, you hit a button on the headset, and the track is paused while you chat. Hang up, and the music restarts automatically.
As the device weighs only 26g, the maker claims you’ll hardly feel it on your head. And the battery should last even on lengthy under-bonnet jobs, as it has five hours’ playing or talk time,
or 60 hours of life on standby.
GEAR4 Bluphones, price: ÷£49.99, buy from: 01494 436221,
www.gear4store.com