Stellantis has recently announced a safety recall affecting certain 2024-2025 models of its electric Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S vehicles. The issue? Even when parked, these EVs may roll away under certain conditions due to a mechanical defect involving the “park pawl” inside the reduction gearbox. If you own—or are considering buying—one of these models, here’s what you need to know.
What’s the Problem
These EVs use a parking pawl: a steel component inside the reduction gearbox that locks the gearbox when you select “P” (Park). While EVs don’t have a conventional multi-speed transmission, the reduction gearbox serves a similar purpose in reducing motor speed and delivering torque. The pawl is there to ensure the vehicle remains stationary even if the foot brake or parking brake isn’t engaged.
However, in affected units, Stellantis has discovered that the park pawl return spring is installed incorrectly. This misalignment can allow the pawl to move out of position or fail to engage properly. The result: the gearbox may not be locked solidly, and the vehicle could roll—even when it’s in Park. On a slope, even as mild as around 10% grade, the vehicle may start creeping.
How Many Vehicles & Which Models Are Affected
The recall affects approximately 75 vehicles in total.
- 49 units are Dodge Charger Daytona EVs from the 2024-2025 model years.
- 26 units are Jeep Wagoneer S EVs (same model years).
The production period for the affected vehicles spans from August 2024 through early to mid-2025 (depending on model) for the charger and Wagoneer lines.
Why This Matters & When It’s Dangerous
Most drivers may never notice a problem—until they think they have. Under normal usage, you’d park, select “P,” possibly engage the parking brake, and exit. But because of the misaligned spring, the pawl might not be fully engaged. That means when you release the service brake (or foot brake), the vehicle might not remain still. Even a slight incline could cause movement.
This isn’t just theoretical. Vehicles parked in driveways, incline parking spots, or sloped garages might roll toward pedestrians, other vehicles, or obstacles. It’s a safety risk—not just inconvenience. Stellantis and safety regulators take these roll-away risks seriously.
What Stellantis Is Doing
Stellantis will replace the entire electric drive module (which includes the faulty spring mechanism) in affected vehicles. This module swap is the recall fix.
Owners of affected Charger Daytona or Wagoneer S EVs should receive recall notices via their dealers by mid-September. Repairs will be done free of charge.
What Owners Should Do Now
Until your vehicle has the recall fix installed, here are steps to minimize risk:
- Always use the parking brake, even if you believe “Park” has secured the vehicle.
- When shifting into “P”, keep your foot on the service (foot) brake until you’re confident the vehicle is fully stationary.
- Park on flat surfaces when possible. If you must park on a slope, angle towards a curb or use wheel ramps as backup.
- Check if your VIN is part of the recall (you can search via NHTSA or your dealer). If so, schedule the recall service.
- Until replaced, treat the Park gear as less reliable than usual.
Broader Implications & Takeaways
- Even EVs have mechanical components that matter. Many people assume that EVs rely purely on electronic or motor-based systems, but this recall shows that mechanical locking devices (like pawls, springs, etc.) are still critical safety components.
- Quality control during manufacture of these mechanical parts is essential. A small misaligned spring can lead to big safety implications.
- Owner vigilance matters. Recalls are only effective if owners know their vehicles are affected and act. Checking VINs, watching for recall notices, and insisting on free repairs are part of responsible ownership.
- Public perception risk: Recalls like this can affect consumer confidence, especially when they involve safety in “Park” — something most drivers expect to be fail-safe.
Final Thought
If you own a 2024 or 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona EV or Jeep Wagoneer S EV, this is one recall you don’t want to ignore. While the number of affected units is relatively small, the risk is not negligible. Until your dealer replaces the electric drive module with the corrected version, treat Park as only part of your parking safety strategy—not the whole strategy.
Share this information with anyone you know who owns one of these cars. It could prevent damage, injury—or worse. And follow for more updates and automotive safety deep dives.
