WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Nissan is recalling 242,720 MY 2005-2009 Pathfinder, Frontier and Xterra vehicles.

The recall affects those models that were originally sold in or are currently registered in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.

These are areas of the country where heavy concentrations of road salt are used in the winter. The issue at the center of the recall is that a mixture of snow or water and salt can enter into the front crash zone sensor (CZS) housing. If this occurs, the CZS may internally rust, resulting in a signal interruption. If this happens, the red air bag warning light will illuminate to alert the vehicle operator. The problem could result in the non-deployment of the driver and passenger front air bags in a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

Dealers will replace the front CZS with a redesigned sensor. Owners in the other states will receive extended warranty coverage for the sensor to 10 years.

Owners may contact Nissan at (800) 647-7261