Dodge has announced a recall of 576,000 trucks, vans and sports utility vehicles because of a faulty gearshift. 2001 and 2002 models of Dodge Durango SUV, the Dodge Dakota pickup truck and the Dodge Ram van as well as 2002 models of the Dodge Ram pickup truck have a faulty gearshift.

"In a limited number of cases, long-term wear on the shift assembly can erode the height of the shift blocker, creating the potential that the vehicle could shift out of park without the key in the ignition," Chrysler said in a statement.

Nine minor accidents have been caused because of the problem. Owners will be contacted in January to replace the gearshift. Dodge is asking for owners to use the parking break when the vehicles aren't in use for the time being.