SAFETY PROBLEMS BITE FORD AGAIN

Still reeling from its Firestone tire recall, Ford Motor Co. recalled more than 351,000 of its 2000 model-year Focus cars to correct one or more safety problems involving interior trim panels, brake assemblies and cruise-control cables.

The company says there have been no reported accidents due to the problems, which involve Focuses built through July and sold in North America. In all cases, The company says it will contact owners about the problems and ask them to bring the cars to dealerships to be inspected and repaired if necessary.