Cadillac Recalls SRX for Shifter Interlock

Yet another reason to engage that parking brake routinely, even if you do drive an automatic; Cadillac announced a recall of 17,301 SRX SUVs due to a defective shift-brake interlock. The defect allows the gear selector lever for the automatic transmission to be moved out of park without the brake pedal depressed. This scenario could even play out with the vehicle's ignition turned off and the key removed, according to NHTSA.

GM has issued the recall for 17,301 2004 Cadillac SRXs, and dealers will replace parts of the shifting mechanism that should cure the problem. Owners may contact Cadillac beginning in December at 800-982-2339 or the NHTSA hotline at 888-327-4236.

We reported earlier on Dodge Nitro and Jeep Liberty vehicles with a parking brake recall that could (and has) lead to runway SUVs. While a parking brake is arguably more vital in a manual transmission, and "park" is an even safer bet these days with shift-brake interlocks standard in automatics, caution is always the best route if you'd rather not file an insurance claim.--Colin Mathews