Automakers expect to avoid resin crisis

(AP) - The auto industry may have steered its way around another crisis.

Ford says that it doesn't expect a resin shortage to disrupt production at any of its factories. That's a sign that its peers will be able to avoid problems as well.

Just last week, automakers and parts companies feared that factories could be forced to close due to a shortage of a key plastic resin. Supplies are low because a March explosion and fire knocked out a German factory that makes much of the world's PA-12, a unique resin used to manufacture fuel lines and other parts.

But Ford says it has alternative resins available. An industry expert says that means other carmakers have similar substitutes.