The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall alert for 38,444 Pontiac G8 sedans. The federal agency reports the cars have issues with the electronics that control the front passenger air bags.

According to NHTSA, the issue involves 2008-2009 Pontiac G8 cars made by General Motors from November 2007 to January 2009. The cars have dual-stage front airbags that feature a slight 30 millisecond delay before fully deploying.

However, front impact tests with crash dummies placed in a fully-forward front seat have produced results that exceed federal safety standards. According to NHTSA, the dual-stage airbags may increase the risk of head injuries to certain front seat occupants.

General Motors will recall the vehicles to local dealers where mechanics will reprogram the front air bag sensors free of charge. Although GM has not yet begun notifying Pontiac G8 sedan owners, consumers can call the Pontiac owners toll-free phone line (800-620-7668) for more information.

Recall: GM Pontiac G8 - Air Bag Module - Campaign #: 11V534000 [NHTSA]