NHTSA complaint #11734986

Owner complaint summary

Vehicle Component Failure Description: The electronic gear shifter intermittently shifts into neutral without the driver pressing the release button or applying the brake, and can also slide back into drive without button engagement. This has occurred multiple times since service on 08/27/2025 and continues to occur. The issue has been demonstrated to dealership personnel, who confirmed they could replicate the condition but stated it is “normal.” Two separate dealerships (Suncoast Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Dayton Andrews Dodge) 3x both acknowledged the behavior and classified it as normal operation. Safety Risk: On 04/30/2026, while pulling from a center median on Gulf to Bay right before Bayside Bridge into traffic (vehicles traveling approximately 45 MPH), the vehicle unexpectedly shifted into neutral without warning. The vehicle lost power and would not accelerate, creating an immediate hazard. I was forced to veer back into the median and narrowly avoided colliding with an arrow board trailer. This condition creates a serious risk of collision, especially in traffic, intersections, or highway conditions, as the vehicle can unexpectedly lose propulsion without any driver input. Inspection / Reproduction: -Issue has been reproduced by dealership personnel -Dealerships claim the condition is “normal” -Manufacturer (Chrysler) has been contacted and a case opened -Vehicle is under warranty (~18,200 miles) Warnings / Symptoms: -No warning lights or alerts prior to shifting into neutral -Occurs without pressing the shifter button or brake pedal Additional Information: Dealership personnel advised to “make sure nothing touches the shifter while driving,” indicating the system may be overly sensitive or defective. This is not a reasonable or safe expectation for normal vehicle operation. If this behavior is considered “normal,” it represents a design or safety defect, as unintended shifting into neutral while in motion creates a high risk of crash or injury.