Dodge and Jeep are recalling about 270,000 SUVs because of a problem that can lead them to roll away without warning. The recall applies to some, but not all, 2018-2020 Dodge Durangos and Jeep Grand Cherokees.
Some antilock braking modules delivered to factories in 2018 and 2019 had a defective sensor. It tells a vehicle computer that the brake pedal is being pressed even when it isn’t. That computer blocks some functions – like shifting out of park – unless there is pressure on the brake pedal.
Without the block, the vehicles can shift out of park with a simple bump to the shifter and roll away unexpectedly.
Stellantis (the parent company of both Dodge and Jeep) says it is not aware of any injuries or accidents related to the defect. It became aware of the problem when some customers reported that their brake lights stayed on with no one in the vehicle.
That makes it sound as though you could spot this problem developing. But Stellantis notes that it can happen without the brake light activating.
Stellantis has announced the recall but not the solution. Documents filed with the federal government’s primary car safety agency say a “remedy is under development.” The company will notify owners by mail in late July – by which time we assume they’ll have a solution ready.
Recall repairs are always free.
Automakers recall many cars, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Find out whether your car has any outstanding recalls with the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
