Is there a recall for shift to park?
As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I often get questions about vehicle recalls and specific issues like the "Shift to Park" problem. This article will explore what the "Shift to Park" issue is, why it occurs, and whether there are any recalls related to it. If you're experiencing this issue, read on to learn more about what steps you can take.
What Is the "Shift to Park" Issue?
The "Shift to Park" issue is a common problem reported by drivers of certain vehicles, particularly General Motors (GM) models. This issue occurs when the vehicle's gear shifter is moved to the "Park" position, but the car does not recognize it as being in park. As a result, the driver may see a "Shift to Park" message on the dashboard, and the vehicle may not allow the ignition to turn off properly.
Why Does This Problem Happen?
The "Shift to Park" issue is typically caused by a malfunction in the gear shifter assembly or the electronic components that communicate the gear position to the vehicle's computer. Over time, wear and tear or manufacturing defects can lead to this problem. Symptoms of this issue include:
- A "Shift to Park" message displayed on the dashboard.
- The inability to turn off the vehicle's ignition.
- The need to jiggle or repeatedly move the shifter to get the car to recognize the "Park" position.
Are There Any Recalls for This Issue?
Yes, there have been recalls related to the "Shift to Park" issue, particularly for certain GM vehicles. For example, General Motors issued a recall for some 2016-2019 Chevrolet Malibu, 2016-2019 Chevrolet Volt, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2019 Chevrolet Blazer models due to this problem. The recall addressed a defect in the shifter assembly that caused the vehicle to fail to detect when it was in the "Park" position.
If you own a GM vehicle and are experiencing this issue, it is important to check whether your car is part of the recall. You can do this by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Alternatively, you can contact your local dealership for assistance.
What Should You Do If You Experience This Issue?
If you encounter the "Shift to Park" problem, here are the steps you should take:
- Check your vehicle's warranty or recall status using your VIN on the NHTSA website or by contacting your dealership.
- If your vehicle is under recall, schedule a repair appointment with your dealership. Recall repairs are typically performed at no cost to the owner.
- If your vehicle is not under recall, consult a trusted auto repair shop to diagnose and fix the issue. The repair may involve replacing the shifter assembly or addressing the electronic components causing the problem.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
While the "Shift to Park" issue is often due to manufacturing defects, regular maintenance can help prevent other gear shifter-related problems. Here are some tips:
- Keep your vehicle's transmission system well-maintained by following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.
- Avoid forcing the gear shifter into position, as this can cause unnecessary wear and tear.
- Address any unusual symptoms, such as difficulty shifting gears, as soon as they arise.
Conclusion
The "Shift to Park" issue can be frustrating, but it is a known problem with specific vehicles, and recalls have been issued to address it. If you're experiencing this issue, take action by checking your vehicle's recall status and consulting a professional mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we are here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Contact us today for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
