Lear Corp. files for Chapter 11

Struggling automotive parts supplier Lear Corp. said it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection after receiving the support it needed from lenders and bondholders.

The company, which makes automotive seating systems and electronics, had been negotiating with its lenders and bondholders for additional support for its restructuring plan. It previously received a commitment for $500 million in loans to finance its bankruptcy from a group of lenders led by J.P. Morgan and Citigroup. Lear, which posted $13.6 billion in sales for 2008, is a key supplier for both General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co.

The pair represents the company's two largest customers and account for a combined 40 percent of its sales.