Isuzu: 11,000 SUVs recalled in 21 states including Maine

More than 11,000 Isuzu SUVs are being recalled because parts in the rear suspension can rust and break away from the frame.

The recall affects Amigo SUVs from the 1998 to 2001 model years and Rodeo Sport SUVs sold as 2001 and 2002 models, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in documents posted on its website.

It was unclear if there have been any wrecks or injuries associated with the problem. Isuzu officials were not immediately available for comment Monday.

The recall covers SUVs sold or registered in 21 states and Washington, D.C.

Affected states include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri and Kentucky.

Isuzu dealers will inspect the suspensions and treat them with a rust-resistant compound or install a reinforcing bracket free of charge.

In rare cases when the rust is so severe that the reinforcement bracket won’t work, Isuzu will buy the vehicles back based on the Kelley Blue Book private party sale price, the company said in a letter to NHTSA.

Isuzu will notify owners by mail and start the recall later this month. NHTSA acknowledged the recall in a letter to Isuzu on Friday.

 

Eastland Park Hotel getting bank financing, new name

U.S. Bank announced Monday that it will provide federal historic tax credit and first mortgage financing for the renovation of the Eastland Park Hotel on High Street.

After the renovation, the hotel will be known as the Westin Portland Harborview.

The redevelopment project is a partnership with New Castle Hotels, RockBridge and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

The Eastland will undergo a $40 million renovation, resulting in 289 guestrooms, and is expected to reopen as the Westin in the spring of 2013.

 

Gasoline prices in Maine heading back up again

After several weeks of falling prices, gas prices in Maine are back on the rise.

Price-monitoring website MaineGasPrices.com reported Monday that the average cost of a gallon of gas jumped more than a nickel in the past week to $3.44.

The national average increased nearly four cents per gallon to $3.41 during the same time.

Despite the latest price increases, prices at the pump in Maine are still almost 27 cents lower than the same day one year ago and about 11 cents per gallon lower than a month ago.

 

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