GM, VW Cars Being Recalled

General Motors Corp. is recalling 454,000 Chevrolet and Pontiac subcompacts from the 1981 model year to fix corroding pollution control equipment, the Environmental Protection Agency announced Tuesday.

Meanwhile, in Detroit, Volkswagen of America Inc. said that it is recalling 105,000 VW and Audi cars to repair faulty brake hoses that can crack and leak fluid, leading to partial loss of the brakes.

Volkswagen said that its recall affects West German-made VW Quantum, Jetta and Scirocco models and Audi 4000S and 5000S Turbo models from the 1983 through 1985 model years. Repairs will be free, VW said.

No Injuries Reported

The auto maker said it knew of no accidents or injuries involving the defect.

The EPA said that GM was asking owners of 1981 Chevrolet Chevettes and its Pontiac twin, the T-1000, to take their cars to dealers for replacement, if necessary, of the air tube assembly that injects fresh air into the exhaust manifold.

Corrosion can damage the assembly and an associated solenoid control valve, leading to audible air leaks and possible emissions above federal pollution standards, the agency said.

Dealers will replace necessary components, using a redesigned stainless steel tube assembly, the EPA said. Unlike many pollution-related recalls that exempt California cars, which have to meet different standards and have different equipment, this recall includes California models, the agency said.