Automakers are adding style and design elements to gear shifts, and while they may look better, the new shifts can be confusing and potentially dangerous, Consumer Reports says.
Fiat Chrysler recently recalled more than 1 million cars and SUVs because the gear shift makes it too easy for drivers to forget to put the vehicle in park.
“The problem with these unconventional gear selectors is that they make it hard to consistently pick the right gear, especially park,” said Tom Mutchler of Consumer Reports. “And worst case, that means the car could roll away.”
Since it’s not immediately obvious whether the automatic transmissions are in gear, neutral or park, on some models it’s possible for the car to roll after the driver gets out.
Some manufacturers have built in safeguards. Ford, Lincoln, Acura, Honda and GM all automatically return to park if the door opens with the engine on or if the engine is shut off in gear to prevent rolling.
Consumer Reports now deducts points for cars that don't have a built-in failsafe preventing roll-away accidents.
Consumer Reports recommends people who own those gear shifts always double check when it’s supposed to be in park and use the emergency brake any time they are going to step out of the car.
