This is most commonly reported from Dodge Avenger owners, but there have also been similar complaints about other Dodge makes as well as other Chrysler and Jeep vehicles having a similar problem.

Help, My Car's in Park and I Can't Get Out

The problem is frustratingly simple: the car is working fine, until suddenly one day when in park you can't put the car into gear. It seems to be caused by a weak design made with cheap plastic parts.

While it doesn't always work, there is something you can do to try and fix the problem to try and get going again without calling a tow truck. According to jhpatte over at answers.edmunds.com you will have to remove the interior cover of the gear shifter using a blunt object (some have suggested a butter knife); don't worry these supposedly just snap back into place. Next, press the brakes down and pull back on the hot pink tab located inside the shifter assembly as you pull the shifter into gear.

If you can get your car in gear it might be best to drive over to a service shop. If you are still warranty you definitely should take it to the shop!.

1. Gear Shift Assembly Image from edmunds.com
2. How to Fix (Video) 2008 Dodge Avenger

What Owners Are Saying:

I drove to work today, went on lunch break and my car starts but will not move out of park. I call my husband, my brother and a few patients and orther people looked at car, could not get it out of park. I called about the warranty and they told me they do not think it is covered under my EXTENDED warranty plan. HOW can something that does not allow your car to shift out of gear not be covered on warranty or without warranty? I havent had car 2 years yet and it would not be an issue if they would just fix it...NO CHARGE.

tmersmann, Florence, KY

I recently had the same problem as everyone else with the gear shifter being stuck in park. I am a girl, that is mechanically inclined, and I bought the new shifter and replaced it within 2 hours. If you can do it yourself; it is not that hard and well worth the $400+ savings. It is only like 6-8 bolts and a couple clips.

Michelle Hazelwood, MO

When is Dodge Going to Order a Recall?

A recall has been issued by Dodge on August 30th, 2010. Go to this page, enter the last 8 digits from your VIN or call 1-800-853-1403. No class action lawsuits have been filed either.

Actions You Can Take & Possible Recourse

This step is crucial. Don't just complain on forums; The sites below actually manage your complaint in ways that allow useful statistics and they report dangerous trends to the authorities. Law firms often contact these sites for help with Class Action lawsuits. Make sure to file your complaint on all three sites, we can't stress that enough.

1. Step 1: File Your Complaint at CarComplaints.com

   CarComplaints.com is a free resource dedicated to uncovering car problem trends and informing the consumer. File Your Complaint

2. Step 2: Notify the Center for Auto Safety

   The Center for Auto Safety is an organization that informs consumers about auto safety issues. Notify the CAS

3. Step 3: Report a Safety Concern to the NHTSA

   The NHTSA directs highway safety and has the authority to force recalls to be issued following investigations. Report Your Concern

Have Your Say

Let us know if you've experienced this problem, know of a potential fix or just want to voice how frustrated you are: