Recalled: 2008-'09 Mitsubishi Lancer, Lancer Evolution

WASHINGTON — Mitsubishi is recalling 29,353 2008-'09 Lancer and Lancer Evolution vehicles in "salt belt regions" because long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and road salt could cause the mixture to stick to the front-impact sensors. Such a scenario could corrode the sensors and delay the deployment of the airbags, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The recall involves the aforementioned Lancer and Lancer Evolutions sold or registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Vehicles sold or registered in any other state are not involved the recall.

"In areas where heavy road salt is used in the winter, a long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow with salt thrown up by the other vehicles on the road may cause a water-salt mixture to adhere to the front impact sensors," the NHTSA press release states. "This coating over time may cause corrosion. In the event of a crash of the type that would deploy the airbags, this type of short-circuit may cause a delay in the deployment of the airbags, which could result in driver or passenger injury."

Mitsubishi dealers will install new front airbag sensors that have improved corrosion resistance; the full recall bulletin is available on the NHTSA Web site. The recall campaign is expected to begin on November 27. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at (888) 648-7820.

Inside Line says: If you own a 2008-'09 Lancer of any variety and live in one of the above states, have it checked out the next time you visit the dealer. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent