My Dodge is Stuck in Park. Now What?

Posted on
Author
Scott McCracken
Tagged
#transmission #recall
Red arrow points at a disassembled gear shifter

The problem is frustratingly simple: the car is working fine, until suddenly one day when in park you can't put the car into gear. It seems to be caused by a weak design made with cheap plastic parts.

While it doesn't always work, there is something you can do to try and fix the problem to try and get going again without calling a tow truck. According to jhpatte over at answers.edmunds.com you will have to remove the interior cover of the gear shifter using a blunt object (some have suggested a butter knife); don't worry these supposedly just snap back into place. Next, press the brakes down and pull back on the hot pink tab located inside the shifter assembly as you pull the shifter into gear.

I drove to work today, went on lunch break and my car starts but will not move out of park. I call my husband, my brother and a few patients and orther people looked at car, could not get it out of park. I called about the warranty and they told me they do not think it is covered under my EXTENDED warranty plan. HOW can something that does not allow your car to shift out of gear not be covered on warranty or without warranty? I havent had car 2 years yet and it would not be an issue if they would just fix it...NO CHARGE.

2008 Avenger Owner in KY

If you can get your car in gear it might be best to drive over to a service shop. If you are still warranty you definitely should take it to the shop!.

Dodge Issued a Recall ∞

Dodge issued a recall on August 30th, 2010. Go to this page, enter the last 8 digits from your VIN or call 1-800-853-1403. No class action lawsuits have been filed.

Generations Where This Problem Has Been Reported

This problem has popped up in the following Dodge generations.

Most years within a generation share the same parts and manufacturing process. You can also expect them to share the same problems. So while it may not be a problem in every year yet, it's worth looking out for.

OK, Now What?

Maybe you've experienced this problem. Maybe you're concerned you will soon. Whatever the reason, here's a handful of things you can do to make sure it gets the attention it deserves.

  1. File Your Complaint

    CarComplaints.com is a free site dedicated to uncovering problem trends and informing owners about potential issues with their cars. Major class action law firms use this data when researching cases.

    Add a Complaint

  2. Notify CAS

    The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) is a pro-consumer organization that researches auto safety issues & often compels the US government to do the right thing through lobbying & lawsuits.

    Notify The CAS

  3. Report a Safety Concern

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the US agency with the authority to conduct vehicle defect investigations & force recalls. Their focus is on safety-related issues.

    Report to NHTSA