The problem
On certain sport utility vehicles, if a driver has not placed the shifter lever fully into the "park" position and leaves the vehicle running, the vehicle May unexpectedly move rearward after seeming to be stable.
The risk
Inadvertent movement of the vehicle could result in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will install a secondary detent system to the floor shifter assembly. Daimlerchrysler sent interim notices to owners concerning this problem on March 22, 2002. Owner notification began September 23, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 02V-053 (02V053000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | B02 |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Floor shift |
| Report date | February 15, 2002 |
| Owners notified | September 23, 2002 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,620,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
- 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 1995 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Plus 3 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-053 repair free?
Yes. Jeep dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a secondary detent system to the floor shifter assembly. Daimlerchrysler sent interim notices to owners concerning this problem on March 22, 2002. Owner notification began September 23, 2002.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,620,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.