The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The adjustment of the cable connecting the console shifter mechanism to the ignition key can cause a trapped key condition which can result in a low force required to depress the shift button. A combination of applying a mis-adjusted release button with a low force attempt to shift out of park with the key in the locked position, can break the connecting pin in the shifter.
The risk
If this happens, the "ignition-park" interlock system will be nonfunctional.
The fix
Dealers will inspect for proper operation of the system. Any vehicles that are not functional after the inspection will have the shift mechanism and cable replaced with a "self-adjusting" design.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-183 (98V183000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch |
| Report date | August 6, 1998 |
| Owners notified | October 26, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 685,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
- 1995 Chrysler Cirrus transmission problems 66
- 1996 Chrysler Cirrus transmission problems 22
- 1997 Chrysler Cirrus transmission problems 10
- 1998 Chrysler Cirrus transmission problems 11
- 1996 Chrysler Sebring transmission problems 56
- 1997 Chrysler Sebring transmission problems 35
- 1998 Chrysler Sebring transmission problems 30
- 1995 Dodge Stratus transmission problems 55
- 1996 Dodge Stratus transmission problems 60
- 1997 Dodge Stratus transmission problems 36
- 1998 Dodge Stratus transmission problems 24
- 1996 Plymouth Breeze transmission problems 25
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-183 repair free?
Yes. Chrysler dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect for proper operation of the system. Any vehicles that are not functional after the inspection will have the shift mechanism and cable replaced with a "self-adjusting" design.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 685,000 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.