Yet Another Transmission Shifter Problem at Fiat Chrysler; 1.48 Million Rams Recalled

For a while, it seemed Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ fancy (and confusing) console-mounted monostable shifters and newer rotary-dial shifters were out to give every FCA executive a headache. Unfortunately for them, there’s new safety issue causing vehicle rollaways, and this time it’s from a seemingly tried-and-true bit of automotive gear.

The traditional column shifter.

FCA is now recalling 1.48 million Ram pickups spanning nine model years to prevent further injuries and accidents.

Past recalls and investigations involved operators of monostable shifters incorrectly thinking they had shifted into park (when the vehicle was actually still in drive or reverse), or vehicles with rotary gearshifts rolling away after the driver selected park. This recall concerns the failure of the shift interlock in certain vehicles, which allows the shift lever to be accidentally moved out of the park position.

From the company’s media release:

An FCA US review of field data led to the discovery that Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) may not function properly if subject to specific high-temperature conditions for prolonged periods. The conditions are consistent with those that occur when there is protracted brake-pedal application while a vehicle is idling in park.

If BTSI becomes disabled, a vehicle’s shifter may be moved out of park without brake-pedal application, or the presence of a key in the ignition. In such circumstances, a vehicle may exhibit inadvertent movement – if its parking brake has not been set, as recommended in FCA US owners’ manuals.

The automaker claims it is aware of seven “potentially related” injuries and a “small number” of accidents that might stem from the wonky shifters.

FCA says the recall will restore BTSI function in the affected vehicles. There’s a number of Ram models included in the campaign, with most falling under the Heavy Duty banner. The recall includes 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs, 2016-2017 Ram 3500 chassis cabs (with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 10,000 pounds), and some 2009-2017 Ram 1500 pickups.

Trucks from the 2017 model year built after December 31st, 2016, are not included in the recall. If you’re worried about the vehicle sitting in your driveway, there’s a number (866-220-6747) to call. Meanwhile, give your left foot a workout and start using that parking brake.

[Image: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]