Australia Recalls Asbestos-Contaminated Cars from China

Australia's consumer watchdog agency has ordered the recall of 23,000 cars and SUVs made by China's Chery Automobile Co. and Great Wall Motor Co. to remove components containing asbestos.

Ateco Automotive Pty., which imports and distributes both brands in Australia, will be required to replace engine and exhaust gaskets contaminated with the carcinogenic fibers. The distributor also has notified Chery and Great Wall dealers to halt sales of the vehicles and recall aftermarket gaskets.

Great Wall says it is investigating the reports.

Ateco notes that the parts pose only "negligible" risks to consumers during regular vehicle use. Australia's Competition and Consumer Commission concurs but warns owners to avoid do-it-yourself maintenance.

The country has banned asbestos from all products since 2004. The material was previously used by carmakers worldwide in such components as brake pads and gaskets.

The investigation was triggered when Australian customs officials first detected asbestos in aftermarket auto parts from China.