1973-1977 Buick Regal Ignition Lock Cylinder: A Replacement Guide
If your key is stuck or won't turn in your classic Regal, the ignition lock cylinder is the likely cause.
- Failure is common due to the vehicle's age; symptoms include a key that is hard to turn, gets stuck, or won't start the car.
- Replacement requires special tools: a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor.
- New aftermarket parts from brands like Standard Ignition and Dorman are the most reliable and available options.
- A new lock cylinder will come with a new set of keys; your original keys cannot be used.
Is Your Regal's Ignition Giving You Trouble?
After 50 years, the original ignition lock cylinder in a 1973-1977 Buick Regal has seen a lot of use. It's a common point of failure due to simple mechanical wear. If you're having trouble starting your car, the issue might not be the starter or battery, but this simple, replaceable part. Understanding the symptoms can save you from being stranded.
Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Lock Cylinder
A worn-out lock cylinder will give you clear warning signs. Because it's a mechanical part, failure is usually gradual, but it can sometimes fail suddenly. Look out for these issues:
- Key is Hard to Turn: You feel resistance or have to jiggle the key to get it to turn to the 'On' or 'Start' position. This is a sign the internal tumblers are worn and not aligning correctly.
- Key Gets Stuck: The key turns, but you can't remove it from the ignition, or it gets stuck in one position like 'Accessory' or 'On'. This can drain your battery if left in the 'On' position.
- Car Won't Start: You turn the key, and nothing happens. The dashboard might not light up, and the engine won't crank. This occurs when the worn cylinder fails to properly engage the ignition switch.
- Problems Inserting the Key: You have difficulty pushing the key all the way into the lock. This indicates worn components or an obstruction inside the cylinder.
No-Start vs. No-Crank
A bad ignition lock cylinder typically causes a "no-crank" condition, where turning the key does absolutely nothing. If the engine cranks but doesn't start, your problem is more likely related to fuel or spark, not the lock cylinder.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Cylinder
For a vehicle from this era, new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts from GM are no longer produced. The market for new parts is served by aftermarket manufacturers. Fortunately, reputable brands produce high-quality replacements.
Brand Tiers for Your Buick Regal:
- Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition): Often considered a premium aftermarket brand, Standard Ignition parts are trusted by professional mechanics. Their components are known for meeting or exceeding original specifications, ensuring a precise fit and smooth operation. For a part you use every time you drive, this is a top-tier choice.
- Dorman: Dorman is a well-known and reliable aftermarket brand that offers cost-effective solutions. They are known for their extensive vehicle coverage and for sometimes engineering fixes for common OEM problems. A Dorman lock cylinder is a solid, dependable choice for your Regal.
Pro Tip: Both Dorman and Standard Ignition cylinders will come with a new set of keys. You cannot re-use your old, original keys with a new lock cylinder. The new cylinder is keyed specifically to the new keys provided.
Cost of Replacing the Ignition Lock Cylinder
Replacing the ignition lock cylinder is an affordable repair. The main cost variable is whether you do the work yourself or hire a shop.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Cylinder (Dorman, Standard) | $32 - $39 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $132 - $239 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special tools to replace the ignition cylinder?
Yes. For 1973-1977 GM vehicles with a column ignition, you will need a steering wheel puller and a steering wheel lock plate compressor tool to access and remove the lock cylinder. These can often be rented from auto parts stores.
Are there any recalls for the 1973-1977 Regal ignition?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls specifically for the ignition lock cylinder on the 1973-1977 Buick Regal. The widespread GM ignition recalls of the 2010s applied to much newer vehicles. Failures on this classic model are due to age and wear, not a manufacturing defect.
Can I just lubricate the lock instead of replacing it?
If the problem is minor stiffness, a graphite lubricant designed for locks might provide temporary relief. However, if the cylinder is already showing significant signs of wear like jamming or failing to turn, lubrication is not a long-term solution. Replacement is the only reliable fix.
What's the difference between the ignition lock cylinder and the ignition switch?
The lock cylinder is the mechanical part your key goes into. The ignition switch is the electronic component that the lock cylinder activates. On your Regal, the switch is located further down the steering column and is connected to the cylinder by a rod. If your accessories work but the car won't crank, the cylinder is the likely problem. If nothing works at all, the switch itself could be the issue.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical, column-mounted ignition lock cylinder. Does not include the electronic ignition switch.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.