approximately 49,000 model-year 2009-10 mazda6 sedans sold or ever 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

the problem: the front cross-member may corrode after exposure to road salt, weakening the mounting point for the passenger-side lower control arm, unexpectedly changing the steering alignment and increasing the risk of a crash.

the fix: dealers will inspect the cross-member and either install a side member and drain hose and apply wax to protect from rust, or install a drain hose and an improved front cross-member. both repairs will be done for free.

what owners should do: mazda will begin notifying owners nov. 12. owners can call the automaker at 800-222-5500, the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit its website to check their vehicle identification number and learn more.

need to find a dealer for service? go to service & repair to find your local dealer. to check for other recalls, and to schedule a free recall repair at your local dealership, click here: mazda6

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