Is there a recall for shift to park?
As of Wednesday, February 26, 2025, there is no widespread recall for the "shift to park" feature in vehicles. However, there have been isolated incidents and investigations related to potential issues with the shift to park mechanism in certain models and years. This article will provide an overview of the current status and any relevant information on the topic.
What is the "Shift to Park" Feature?
The shift to park feature is a safety mechanism in modern vehicles that is designed to prevent the car from rolling away when the driver exits the vehicle. It automatically engages the parking brake and locks the transmission in the "park" position when the driver shifts the gear selector to the "park" position and opens the driver's door.
Potential Issues and Investigations
While the shift to park feature is generally reliable, there have been a few isolated incidents and investigations related to potential problems with the mechanism in certain vehicle models and years. Some of the key issues that have been reported include:
- Vehicles rolling away unexpectedly after the driver has shifted to park and exited the vehicle
- Transmission not properly engaging the park position, even when the gear selector is in the park position
- Malfunctions or failures of the shift to park sensors or mechanisms
These issues have led to investigations by regulatory agencies and vehicle manufacturers, but no widespread recalls have been issued as of the current date.
Affected Vehicles and Manufacturer Responses
The specific vehicle models and years that have been affected by shift to park issues vary, and the responses from manufacturers have also differed. Some examples include:
- In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into certain Jeep Wrangler models after receiving reports of vehicles rolling away after being shifted to park. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) issued a software update to address the issue.
- In 2024, General Motors recalled several Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup truck models due to a problem with the shift to park mechanism that could allow the vehicle to roll away.
- Ford has also faced some isolated incidents and investigations related to shift to park issues in certain Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition models, but no major recalls have been announced.
It's important to note that these issues appear to be relatively isolated and not widespread across the entire automotive industry. Drivers should always follow proper safety procedures when exiting their vehicles, such as engaging the parking brake and ensuring the transmission is in the park position.
What would make my automatic transmission not properly shift into park?
Several factors can stop an automatic transmission from shifting, including low transmission fluid, a malfunctioning shift solenoid, a bad transmission control module, a broken shift cable, or mechanical wear and tear such as worn-out bands.
How much does it cost to fix the shift to park problem?
Parts required include the harness assembly for the transmission control wiring and, if necessary, a new cover for the transmission control. As this issue is part of a legally mandated recall, GM dealerships are required by law to perform the necessary repairs at no cost to the vehicle owner.
What happens if you accidentally shift into park?
So the car can no longer roll. It does this via a mechanism in the transmission. Itself called a paw notches are carved into the transmission's output. And these are what the paw engages.
What is not covered under extended warranty?
Regular Maintenance
While extended warranties are designed to cover unexpected and costly repairs, they typically do not cover regular maintenance. This includes routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacements, and fluid top-offs.
What is the shift to park recall?
The "Shift to Park" defect affects the transmission shifter in various General Motors vehicles, preventing the vehicle from recognizing when it has been shifted into park. Drivers place the shifter into what should be parked, only for a message to display as if the vehicle is not fully in park.
What is the shift to park problem with GMC?
GMC Acknowledges the "Shift to Park" Concern
This issue poses safety risks. Drivers have reported that their vehicles cannot be turned off unless the system recognizes that it is in "park," and in some cases, the vehicle may roll as if in neutral.
How much does it cost to replace a shifter assembly?
The average cost for an Automatic Trans Shift Cable Replacement is between $329 and $374. Labor costs are estimated between $172 and $217 while parts are typically priced around $157. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Why is my car telling me to shift to park when it's in park?
This could be due to a misalignment or wear in the shift linkage, the mechanical connection between the shifter and the transmission, or a problem with the sensor that reads the position of the shifter. you could attempt to inspect the shift linkage yourself for any visible damage or misalignment.
Will shift to park drain battery?
Owners of these vehicles have reported "shift to park" notifications when attempting to engage the park function. This malfunction can prevent drivers from turning off their vehicles, potentially leading to battery drainage and failure.
Is shift to park covered under extended warranty?
The GM Authority often publicizes updates related to recalls and warranty coverage, so keep an eye on their announcements. For vehicles still under the manufacturer's warranty, the repair of the Shift to Park defect should typically be covered.
