October 15, 2025 – Detroit, Michigan — Global automaker Stellantis NV (STLAM.MI) has announced a major recall of 298,439 vehicles in the United States due to a defective shifter cable that could cause the park function to fail, creating a potential rollaway risk, according to a statement from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall primarily affects Dodge Dart models from 2013 to 2016, which may experience an issue where the shifter cable can detach from the transmission, preventing the driver from properly engaging the “park” position. This defect could cause the vehicle to move unintentionally, increasing the risk of accidents or injury if the parking brake is not applied.
Details of the Recall
According to the NHTSA report, the issue arises from a faulty transmission shifter cable bushing, which can degrade or detach over time. When this happens, the driver may think the car is in park even though the transmission is not actually engaged, leading to unexpected vehicle movement.
Stellantis confirmed that it is developing a repair solution and will notify affected vehicle owners once replacement parts and procedures are ready. The automaker has not yet reported any confirmed injuries or fatalities related to this defect but has urged drivers to use their parking brakes as a precautionary measure until the repairs are completed.
The affected vehicles include:
- 2013–2016 Dodge Dart sedans equipped with automatic transmissions.
How the Rollaway Risk Occurs
In vehicles with automatic transmissions, the shifter cable links the gear selector inside the cabin to the transmission system. If the connection point fails or becomes loose, the gear position displayed inside the vehicle may not match the actual gear engaged.
This means a driver could remove the key or turn off the engine thinking the car is safely parked, while the transmission remains in neutral or drive, allowing the vehicle to roll unexpectedly.
Such rollaway incidents can pose a serious safety hazard, particularly when vehicles are parked on an incline or in crowded areas.
Previous Recalls and Ongoing Safety Efforts
This recall marks the second major safety action by Stellantis in recent months. In September 2025, the company recalled over 123,000 Jeep vehicles after discovering that trim pieces could detach during operation, potentially creating road hazards.
Stellantis, the parent company of brands including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Peugeot, has faced increasing regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. over vehicle safety and compliance reporting.
The company has stated it is cooperating fully with the NHTSA and is working to improve quality control and supplier management to prevent similar defects in the future.
What Vehicle Owners Should Do
Owners of affected Dodge Dart models can:
- Check their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the NHTSA recall website (nhtsa.gov/recalls) or Stellantis’ official recall page.
- Contact their local Dodge dealership for further guidance once the remedy is available.
- Always engage the parking brake when parking to prevent rollaway incidents.
Stellantis will begin official owner notifications once replacement components and service instructions have been finalized. Repairs will be performed free of charge under the company’s safety recall program.
Background: Stellantis’ Commitment to Safety
Formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group, Stellantis is the world’s fourth-largest automaker, producing vehicles under more than a dozen brands. The company has made public commitments to enhancing safety, quality, and sustainability as part of its Dare Forward 2030 strategy, which emphasizes innovation in electric vehicles, connected car technologies, and regulatory compliance.
Vehicle recalls remain a critical part of Stellantis’ safety management efforts, with the company actively monitoring global markets for potential component defects and swiftly coordinating responses with regulators.
Conclusion
The recall of nearly 300,000 Dodge Dart sedans underscores Stellantis’ ongoing challenges in managing legacy vehicles and supplier components. While the company has acted proactively to address the rollaway risk, the situation serves as a reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance, awareness, and adherence to recall notices.
Drivers are encouraged to check their VINs immediately and take necessary precautions until official repairs are completed.
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