Four problems related to automatic transmission park/neutral start switch have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle was in reverse, attempted to drive back in reverse, but vehicle was still in drve. Consumer slammed on brakes, and went back to reverse, and drove. But vehicle was stil the same. Consumer had to turn vehicle off to get it correctly into gear. Service manager referred the consumer to to another mechanic, who had to replace steering column.
Transmission gear can be pushed into drive without putting foot on brake first. Concerned because consumer has small children. Consumer was not informed of this feature prior to purchase of vehicle.
Vehicle was parked in driveway and engine running with children in back seats;. All of a sudden a loud sound was heard and the vehicle rolled out of driveway into a tree. Three injuries were sustained, including minor cuts & bruises. Dealer notified. Can NHTSA provide additional information.
Vehicle has no interlock safety mechanism. Vehicle can be placed into gear without applying the brake. The dealer has been contacted.