1964 Plymouth Valiant Convertible Metal Dash Bezel, Original Part on 2040-parts.com

Ford recalls minivans, SUV

Ford is recalling nearly half a million vehicles to fix defects that can cause fires or loss of power. About 205,800 copies of the Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivan from the 2004 and 2005 model years are being recalled, because torque-converter output shafts in the transaxle might fail and cause power loss. Ford is also recalling 244,530 Escape SUVs from the 2001 and 2002 model years, which might have brake-fluid leaks that can cause corrosion and fire.

Saab appoints North American administrator, prospects darken

Saab has appointed an outside administrator to oversee its business in North America and the potential wind-down or sale of the company if its parent operations can’t emerge from bankruptcy. The move was announced on Wednesday afternoon by Saab North American COO Tim Holbeck as the company’s future remains uncertain. McTevia & Associates, a management and financial-consulting service with offices in suburban Detroit and Florida, is the administrator.

Porsche future products: Small SUV, entry-level roadster in the plan

Porsche plans a major expansion of its product range by the middle of the decade. CEO Matthias Mueller has promised at least one new model a year, starting with the redesigned 911 that arrives in February. An SUV that is smaller than the Cayenne will be added, along with an entry-level roadster.