The ongoing GM Shift to Park Recall has been a topic of concern for many vehicle owners and lessees. General Motors (GM) faces scrutiny due to a defect, which prevents drivers from shutting off and locking their vehicles. This issue affects a variety of GMC and Chevrolet model vehicles, including the GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Traverse, and Chevrolet Blazer.
Owners or lessees of the affected vehicle should be aware of the potential safety hazards the recall may pose. In response to this issue, GM has taken steps to rectify the problem, informing owners about the risks and possible remedies. This information will give you an understanding about the Shift to Park Recall and what it means for you and your vehicle.
As a vehicle owner, it is vital to stay informed on recalls and defects which can impact your safety. By understanding the Shift to Park Recall, you can take proper action to ensure your vehicle is safe on the road and prevent any potential issues. By staying up-to-date on recall information, you can maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.
Understanding the GMC Shift to Park Recall
The GM Shift to Park recall has been an issue that has affected various General Motors (GM) vehicles. The primarily impacting Chevrolet models like the Malibu, Traverse, Volt, and the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer. It’s essential to be aware of the problem, its implications on vehicle’s safety, and the steps required to address it.
In simple terms, the Shift to Park defect prevents drivers from shutting off and locking their vehicles, even after putting the car in park. This situation poses a potential safety concern, as drivers might mistakenly assume their cars are securely parked and powered off while walking away.
The issue has been prevalent enough for the company to issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on June 7, 2021. The TSB specifically targets the 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, while also mentioning the Malibu, Traverse, Volt, and other 2016-2019 Chevrolet models. The bulletin provides guidance on diagnosing and addressing the “Shift to Park” problems, although it does not present a definitive solution to the underlying issue.
While GM continues to address the problem, drivers should closely monitor any indications of the Shift to Park defect in their vehicles. Stay informed about updates and potential recall actions by GM, and reach out to your dealership or a certified mechanic if you suspect a problem.
Your safety is paramount, so it’s crucial to understand the Shift to Park recall and take appropriate action if you own or lease an affected vehicle. By doing so, you help ensure a safe and reliable driving experience for you and your loved ones.
Can My Shift to Park Issue Be Resolved?
Experiencing a shift to park issue with your GM vehicle can be frustrating and concerning. Fortunately, there have been some measures taken to address this problem. It is crucial to understand the potential causes and available solutions to tackle this issue.
The shift to park issue usually occurs when the vehicle’s system fails to detect that the transmission is in park, despite the shifter being in the correct position. As a result, an error message is displayed, and you might be unable to turn off or lock your vehicle. This problem has affected various Chevy vehicles, including the Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Traverse, and Chevrolet Blazer.
To diagnose and resolve this issue, GM has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) as a diagnostic aid for their technicians. These TSBs provide engineering information and guidance on addressing specific symptoms and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the shift to park problem. The most recent TSB was issued on June 7, 2021, targeting specific vehicle models such as the 2017 GMC Acadia and several 2016-2019 Chevrolet models.
In many cases, addressing the shift to park issue involves fixing or replacing components within the transmission control assembly, park switches, or the drive unit. It is essential to take your vehicle to an authorized GM service center to ensure the right diagnosis and repair.
While the shift to park issue has been a concern for many owners, it can be resolved in most cases. Be sure to have your vehicle inspected and repaired by a certified GM dealer. This will ensure the issue is appropriately addressed and avoid potential complications.
Is Shift to Park Covered by Warranty?
When it comes to the Shift to Park issue, you might be wondering if your vehicle’s warranty covers the repair costs. Notably, for many affected Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles, the repair may be covered under warranty.
The GM Authority often publicizes updates related to recalls and warranty coverage, so keep an eye on their announcements. For vehicles still under the manufacturer’s warranty, the repair of the Shift to Park defect should typically be covered. This means you won’t have any out-of-pocket expenses if your vehicle is eligible.
To know if your specific vehicle is covered, you should consult your warranty documentation or contact your local dealership. Warranties can differ depending on the model and purchase type, it’s best to confirm the details with an authorized representative. Also, it’s worth noting that extended warranties purchased through dealerships or third-party providers may cover the repair costs as well.
In case the manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty doesn’t cover the Shift to Park issue, you should prepare for potential out-of-pocket expenses. Repair costs can vary depending on the dealership and the extent of the defect. However, staying informed and working with a trusted dealership can help minimize your repair expenses.
Stay up-to-date on the Shift to Park Recall and consult your warranty documentation to ensure a smooth repair process. By doing so, you’ll be taking a proactive approach to protect your investment and ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Which Makes and Models Does Shift to Park Affect?
The Shift to Park issue primarily affects certain models of General Motors (GM) vehicles, particularly involving Chevrolet and GMC. You may encounter this defect if you drive a Chevy Malibu, Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Traverse, or Chevrolet Blazer. The GMC Acadia is another model that experiences similar concerns.
Specifically, the Shift to Park defect is prevalent in 2016-2019 Chevrolet Malibu, 2016-2019 Chevrolet Volt, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia and 2019 models of the Chevrolet Blazer. Affected vehicle owners, might experience difficulty shutting off and locking your car due to the Shift to Park defect.
In response to these issues, General Motors has faced scrutiny and implemented necessary recalls. It’s crucial for owners to stay informed and updated on any potential recalls for your Chevrolet or GMC vehicle model. Staying proactive can help you address any potential issues or safety concerns related to the Shift to Park defect—engine power reduced Chevy Malibu recall or any other critical problems.
Is It Possible to File a Lawsuit?
Yes, it is possible to file a lawsuit in the case of the GM Shift to Park Recall issue. In fact, a class action lawsuit has already been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan against the automaker, General Motors (GM). The plaintiffs in this case are owners and lessees of various GM vehicles that have been affected by the “Shift to Park” recall.
The objective is to seek compensation for the owners/lessees of the affected GM vehicles for inconveniences and safety risks. GM vehicle owners, facing similar issues can consider this option or get help from an experienced attorney.
Remember that it’s important to keep relevant documentation; such as repair records and any communication with the automaker. This along with the support of a knowledgeable attorney, will strengthen your case, increasing the chances of a successful outcome.
What Are My Available Options?
If you’re facing issues with your GMC or Chevrolet vehicle we can help. Reach out to our team of Lemon Law Attorneys to explore your California lemon law claim options. We’ll help you determine your eligibility by reviewing your case to assess the compensation you might be entitled to.
If you live in California, you may have additional consumer protection laws related to vehicle defects. Our team of Lemon Law Attorneys are here to guide you in securing the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve. Contact us via phone or complete an online case evaluation to discover the potential recovery you could be eligible for. Don’t delay—contact us today!
2025 Update: GM Shift to Park Lawsuit Settlement, Affected Vehicles, and Claim Deadlines
As of July 2025, there is still no formal recall issued by GM or the NHTSA specifically for the widespread “Shift to Park” defect. However, a new class action settlement provides relief for certain GM owners affected by this issue.
Is There a Recall for GM Shift to Park Issues in 2025?
There is no active NHTSA recall for the Shift to Park defect. Instead, GM has addressed complaints through Technical Service Bulletin PIT5616A and other limited repairs, even as lawsuits continued to mount. Some dealers continue to perform these repairs even after warranty expiration, but many owners were left covering costs themselves.
GM Class Action Lawsuit and Settlement Overview
General Motors has agreed to a 2025 class action settlement covering several Chevrolet and GMC vehicles experiencing persistent Shift to Park problems.
Eligible Models Include:
- 2016–2019 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2016–2019 Chevrolet Volt
- 2018–2019 Chevrolet Traverse
- 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
- 2017–2018 GMC Acadia
Additional vehicles mentioned in recent lawsuits include the 2020–2023 Chevy Malibu and Traverse, Buick Encore, and Trailblazer.
Settlement Compensation Includes:
- $500 base payout for eligible vehicles
- Up to $375 reimbursement for documented out-of-pocket repairs
Drivers who previously had warranty-covered repairs may receive benefits automatically. Those without warranty documentation must submit repair receipts and a claim form.
Important Shift to Park Settlement Deadlines
If you qualify for compensation under this settlement, make sure to act before the deadline:
- Submit a claim by: August 19, 2025
- Exclude yourself or object by: July 21, 2025
- Final approval hearing: August 22, 2025
Visit the official class action site or consult with a lemon law attorney to confirm your eligibility and gather the right documentation.
Common Symptoms of the Shift to Park Defect
- Vehicle won’t shut off even when shifted to “Park”
- “Shift to Park” message appears on the dashboard
- Driver must wiggle the shifter or press the button multiple times to get the message to disappear
- Vehicle won’t lock or register as “off” due to signal failure
These issues may indicate failure in the shifter assembly or wiring harness—often requiring multiple dealership visits to resolve.
What You Should Do Now
If your GM vehicle is affected by Shift to Park issues:
- Check settlement eligibility using your VIN.
- Submit your claim with repair receipts by August 19, 2025.
- Contact a GM dealer for potential warranty repair under TSB PIT5616A.
- Stay updated using GM’s official recall lookup and news alerts.
Still Dealing With Shift to Park Problems? Lemon Law Firm Can Help!
If your GM vehicle continues to suffer from the Shift to Park defect—even after attempted repairs—you may be entitled to compensation under California’s Lemon Law.
At Lemon Law Firm, our attorneys specialize in helping consumers with defective vehicles pursue legal remedies. Whether your car is out of warranty or your dealership refuses to fix the issue, we can help you fight back.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for a replacement vehicle, refund, or settlement payout.