A Guide to the Ignition Lock Cylinder for the 1974-1978 Dodge Lancer
Important vehicle information for owners searching for this specific part.
- The Dodge Lancer was not sold in North America between 1974 and 1978.
- Parts listed for a '1974-1978 Dodge Lancer' are mislabeled and will not fit a US-market vehicle.
- You must identify your vehicle's actual model (e.g., Dart, Colt, Coronet) using the VIN before buying parts.
- For other 1970s Dodge models, aftermarket ignition lock cylinders are available from brands like Dorman and Standard Ignition.
Vehicle Model Incompatibility
The Dodge Lancer was not produced or sold in the North American market for the model years 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, and 1978. The Lancer name was used by Dodge in the U.S. for earlier models (1961-1962) and later models (1985-1989), but there was a long gap in production for this market.
Any listings or catalogs showing an ignition lock cylinder for a "1974-1978 Dodge Lancer" are incorrect for a North American vehicle. It is crucial to properly identify your vehicle before purchasing parts.
Identifying Your Actual Vehicle
If you believe you own a Dodge Lancer from this period, it is likely a different Dodge model or a vehicle with a similar name from another market. During the 1974-1978 timeframe, Dodge sold several other cars in the U.S., and the ignition parts for these are often mislabeled online. Common possibilities include:
- Dodge Dart: The Dart line continued until 1976 and was a popular compact car.
- Dodge Coronet / Charger: These mid-size models were available during this period.
- Dodge Colt: This was a rebadged Mitsubishi Lancer sold in the United States during the 1970s. Parts for a Dodge Colt are not interchangeable with other domestic Dodge models.
- Dodge Aspen / Plymouth Volaré: These models replaced the Dart and Valiant in 1976.
Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and any badging on your car to confirm its true model name. This is the only way to ensure you order the correct parts.
General Information for Similar 1970s Dodge Models
While no specific part exists for the 1974-1978 Lancer, ignition lock cylinders for other Dodge cars of that era (like the Charger, Coronet, and various trucks) are available. For these vehicles, the ignition system is entirely mechanical, with no complex electronics. Aftermarket brands like Dorman and Standard Motor Products (SMP) are common and provide reliable replacements.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Part Availability | Not available for 1974-1978 Dodge Lancer in North America |
| Common Aftermarket Brands (for other '70s Dodges) | Dorman, Standard Motor Products (SMP), Wells |
| Known Issues (General for era) | Key sticking, difficulty turning, lock cylinder failure |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't I find an ignition lock cylinder for my 1974-1978 Dodge Lancer?
The Dodge Lancer was not sold in the North American market between 1963 and 1984. Therefore, no parts are manufactured or cataloged for this specific year range in the U.S. You likely have a different Dodge model, such as a Dart, Coronet, or Colt.
My car is badged as a "Lancer." What could it be?
It is possible you have a vehicle imported from another country, like a Chrysler Valiant Lancer from Australia, or a rebadged Mitsubishi sold as the Dodge Colt in the U.S. It is also possible a previous owner put non-original badges on a different Dodge model. Identifying the car by its VIN is the best course of action.
Are there any recalls for a 1974-1978 Dodge Lancer?
No. Since the vehicle was not officially sold in the U.S. during this time, there are no NHTSA recalls associated with it.
Will an ignition lock cylinder from a 1974 Dodge Charger or Dart fit?
It is impossible to say without knowing the true identity of your vehicle. While many Chrysler products of the era shared parts, you must confirm your car's model before buying an ignition lock cylinder intended for a Charger, Dart, or other vehicle.
Technical Specifications
No OEM part numbers exist for a 1974-1978 Dodge Lancer in the North American market.
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.