Stellantis has announced a significant safety recall affecting two of its all-electric vehicle models: the 2024–2025 Dodge Charger Daytona and the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S. This recall addresses a critical mechanical defect that could lead to these vehicles rolling away unexpectedly, even when the gear selector is placed in the “Park” position, posing a substantial safety risk.

The core of the problem lies with a misaligned return spring, which directly impacts the functionality of the vehicle's parking pawl. The parking pawl is a vital component, typically a robust steel piece, designed to mechanically lock the transmission—or, in the context of electric vehicles, the reduction gearbox—to prevent any unintended movement of the vehicle. Although electric vehicles do not feature traditional multi-speed transmissions, they do employ a simplified reduction gearbox for their high-speed electric motors, and this gearbox still incorporates a mechanism like a parking pawl to ensure the vehicle remains stationary when parked.

Due to the misaligned spring, the parking pawl fails to engage properly, allowing the reduction gearbox to move freely. This defect could cause the affected Wagoneer S or Charger Daytona to roll just after the driver releases either the parking brake or the service brakes (the regular foot pedal brakes). Such an occurrence can create a sudden panic situation and has the potential to cause severe harm to occupants or anyone in the vehicle's path. This issue was specifically noted during a 10-percent grade compliance test, where the misaligned pawl allowed the vehicle to roll.

Stellantis is actively preparing a solution for this recall. The fix will involve the installation of a brand-new electric drive module. This replacement will be provided free of charge to all owners of the affected vehicles. Owners of the 2024–2025 Dodge Charger Daytona and 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S should anticipate receiving official recall notices by September 11th, with the new electric drive modules and repair services expected to be available by late September. Until their vehicle has undergone the necessary repair, owners are strongly advised to maintain their foot on the service brake pedal when releasing the parking brake, a critical measure to prevent any unintended movement and ensure safety.