Suzuki Motor Corporation

Models: Suzuki Swift Year: 1997

Number Involved: 1,198

Dates of Manufacture: July 1996 - March 1997

Defect: On certain vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle, the shift lever appears to be in "Park," but can easily be moved from the "Park" position without the use of the key, transaxle lever detent button, or depressing the brake. If the shift lever were to come out of "Park" while the vehicle is parked on a sloping surface, the vehicle could roll, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the shifter assembly. Until the vehicle is serviced, owners are advised that when shifting to "Park," they should always apply the parking brake before releasing the service brake. Owner notification began Oct 18, 1998. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Suzuki at 1-714-996-7040.

[NHTSA Recall No. 98V225002/Suzuki Recall No. S7]

NHTSA said manufacturers are required to mail a recall notice to all purchasers, owners and dealers when a safety defect or noncompliance with Federal safety standards is found. The agency urges owners to wait until they receive notification from the manufacturer before contacting their dealers to schedule the repair work. Not all vehicles of a particular make and model may be subject to the recall.