Think your EV is safe in Park? Stellantis just announced a recall for the 2024-2025 Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S because they can roll away. Here’s exactly what’s happening, why it matters, and what owners need to do until the fix arrives.
What’s Actually Wrong
These electric muscle cars and SUVs use a parking pawl — a steel piece that locks the reduction gearbox when you select ‘P.’ A misaligned return spring inside the assembly can let that pawl move out of the way. Once it does, the gearbox is free to spin, so the car could roll off even on a 10% grade.
Why You Might Not Notice
Here’s the dangerous part: the failure mode hides behind the brake pedal. With your foot on the brake, everything feels normal. The issue only reveals itself when you release the brake — you could step out and the vehicle starts creeping on its own. On a flat parking lot you might catch it. On a driveway with a slope, you might not.
The Fix
Stellantis says a new electric drive module will resolve the problem. Dealers will contact affected owners by mid-September and replace the module free of charge. There’s no software-only patch — this is a hardware swap.
What To Do Until Your Recall Notice Arrives
- Always engage the parking brake when you stop, even on flat ground
- Keep your foot on the brake when shifting into Park
- Park nose-in or wheel-curbed when possible on any incline
- Watch the mail for your VIN-specific recall notice from Stellantis
Why This Recall Matters Beyond Stellantis
This recall is a reminder that even fully electric vehicles still rely on mechanical safeguards. A lot of EV buyers don’t realize their cars still have a single-speed gearbox with an old-school parking pawl — and when that small steel piece fails, no amount of regen braking or one-pedal-driving software can hold the car in place.
For Stellantis, it’s also another bump on the road for two of its most-watched EV launches. The Charger Daytona was supposed to redefine what electric muscle could feel like; the Wagoneer S was supposed to anchor Jeep’s electric-luxury push. A rollaway recall in year one isn’t the story either brand needed.
The Bottom Line
Did you know electric cars still have gearboxes? Drop your thoughts below, share this with a Charger Daytona or Wagoneer S owner, and follow us for more automotive deep dives and safety alerts.
