Stellantis is recalling nearly 300,000 Dodge Dart vehicles from the 2013-2016 model years due to a dangerous shifter cable defect that can lead to a rollaway risk. This isn’t the first time this issue has surfaced, prompting federal regulators and the automaker to re-address a persistent safety concern for an out-of-production vehicle, leaving owners to await a long-term solution.
The Dodge Dart, a compact sedan that ceased production almost a decade ago, is once again in the headlines for a critical safety issue. Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, has announced a recall affecting nearly 300,000 vehicles over a defect in the shifter cable that could cause cars to roll away unexpectedly, even when parked.
For owners of the 2013-2016 Dodge Dart, this news brings a renewed sense of urgency and perhaps frustration. The safety of their vehicles, particularly when parked, is now under scrutiny due to a problem that has historically plagued some models.
The Core of the Problem: Shifter Cable Defect
The heart of this recall lies in the shifter cable, a seemingly small component with immense safety implications. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the cables in approximately 298,439 Dodge Dart vehicles from the 2013-2016 model years can detach from the transmission. This detachment means the driver might not be able to properly engage the “Park” position, making the vehicle vulnerable to rolling away unintentionally.
This defect directly impedes safe parking and creates a significant hazard, potentially leading to crashes or injuries. The affected vehicles were manufactured between February 24, 2012, and October 4, 2016.
A Troubling History: The 2019 Precedent
What makes this recall particularly noteworthy is its recurring nature. Stellantis (then Fiat Chrysler) previously attempted to address a similar shifter cable issue in the Dodge Dart with NHTSA’s earlier recall 19V-293. That effort in 2019 aimed to fix problems with the shifter cable bushing.
However, despite the earlier intervention, allegations of failures began to re-emerge in late 2024. The NHTSA initiated an investigation, sharing information with Stellantis in January 2025. Discussions intensified, leading Stellantis to open its own investigation in June 2025. By October 2, 2025, the automaker concluded that a safety defect indeed exists, prompting the current recall.
Remarkably, as of October 2, 2025, Stellantis stated it was not aware of any accidents or injuries directly linked to this specific problem, as detailed in reports to the NHTSA.
What Owners Need to Know
For owners of the affected Dodge Dart models, information is crucial. Stellantis is currently developing a remedy for the issue. While the fix is being finalized, affected customers can expect to receive official notices explaining the safety risk. These notices, bearing Chrysler recall number A0C, are expected to be mailed on November 6, 2025.
In the interim, the most vital advice for all owners is to always use the parking brake when parking their vehicle. This simple but critical safety measure can prevent unintended rollaways if the shifter cable fails.
Owners can contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403 for further information about the recall. Additionally, vehicle identification numbers (VINs) related to the recall are searchable on the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website starting October 16, 2025, allowing owners to verify if their specific vehicle is included.
Community and Long-Term Implications
The recurrence of this serious safety defect in an out-of-production vehicle poses unique challenges for both Stellantis and its customers. For owners, it can be frustrating to contend with a known issue that re-emerges years after initial attempts at a fix. The wait for a new remedy, especially for a vehicle no longer actively manufactured, can also be a source of concern regarding parts availability and service efficiency.
This recall highlights the long-term responsibility automakers bear for the vehicles they produce, even years after they roll off the assembly line. It also underscores the crucial role of regulatory bodies like the NHTSA in continuously monitoring vehicle safety and pushing for resolutions to defects that impact public safety.
This incident is part of a broader picture of ongoing safety efforts by Stellantis. Earlier in 2025, the company also recalled 63,000 Jeep Cherokees due to a defect that could cause vehicles to lose power and, consequently, their parking function, as reported by CBS News. These combined actions reflect an active commitment to addressing safety issues across its diverse range of brands and models, even as the company concurrently makes significant investments, such as the announced $13 billion into its U.S. manufacturing operations.
The latest Dodge Dart recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance from both manufacturers and vehicle owners. Always using the parking brake and staying informed about official recall notices are essential steps to ensure safety on the road.
