1981-1985 Dodge Colt Back Up Light Switch Location and Replacement Guide
Reverse lights not working on your Colt? Finding a new switch is the biggest challenge, but you have options.
- New aftermarket back up light switches for the 1981-1985 Dodge Colt are not available.
- Your best options are finding a New Old Stock (NOS) OEM part or a reliable used switch.
- Search for parts for the equivalent 1981-1985 Mitsubishi Mirage, which may be easier to find.
- Before replacing the switch, always check the reverse light bulbs and the corresponding fuse.
Is Your Dodge Colt's Back Up Light Switch Failing?
For a car like the 1981-1985 Dodge Colt, most electrical components are straightforward. A faulty back up light switch is a common issue as a vehicle ages. While not having reverse lights may seem minor, it is a safety hazard and may be illegal in some areas. Before you assume the switch is bad, always check the bulbs and the fuse first, as these are the most common and easiest fixes.
The Challenge: Finding a New Aftermarket Switch
The most significant issue for owners of this generation of Dodge Colt is parts availability. New aftermarket back up light switches for the 1981-1985 models are generally no longer manufactured or available. Searches on major auto parts retailer sites do not show listings for this specific vehicle year range. This means you will need to explore other options.
Cross-Reference with Mitsubishi
Your Dodge Colt is a rebadged Mitsubishi, likely a Mirage or Lancer Fiore from that era. Searching for a back up light switch for a 1981-1985 Mitsubishi Mirage may yield better results. You might find a New Old Stock (NOS) part or a compatible aftermarket switch intended for the Mitsubishi equivalent. An OEM Mitsubishi part number for a similar year is MD730979. Always visually compare your old switch to any potential replacement to ensure the plug and threads match.
Your Replacement Options
Since new aftermarket parts are not available, here are your primary choices:
- New Old Stock (NOS): This refers to original OEM parts that were never sold and have been sitting in inventory. You might find one through Mitsubishi dealerships or specialized online Mopar or Mitsubishi parts warehouses. This is your best but likely most expensive option.
- Used OEM: Sourcing a used switch from a salvage yard or online marketplace like eBay is a common solution. This is cost-effective, but the part's remaining lifespan is unknown.
- Universal Switch: In some cases, a universal back up light switch can be wired in. This requires more technical skill and is usually considered a last resort.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | Not Available |
| New Old Stock (NOS) OEM | $30 - $75+ |
| Used OEM | $15 - $40 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls specifically for the back up light switch on the 1981-1985 Dodge Colt. Given the vehicle's age, any service bulletins (TSBs) would be difficult to find and likely superseded by general mechanic knowledge. The primary known issue is simply failure due to age, leading to the symptoms described above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I test my Colt's back up light switch?
You can test the switch with a multimeter. After safely raising the vehicle, locate the switch on the transmission, unplug its electrical connector, and set your multimeter to continuity mode. With the car in reverse, touch the multimeter probes to the pins on the switch. A good switch should show continuity. Alternatively, you can bypass the switch by jumping the terminals on the connector with a paperclip; if the reverse lights turn on, the switch is faulty.
Where is the back up light switch located?
The back up light switch is almost always screwed into the transmission (or transaxle on this front-wheel-drive car). You will need to safely lift the vehicle to access it from underneath. It will have an electrical connector attached to it.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For a DIY mechanic, this is a relatively easy job. The main steps are to disconnect the battery, safely raise the vehicle, unplug the switch's electrical connector, and then unscrew the old switch from the transmission. Be prepared for a small amount of transmission fluid to leak out when you remove the switch. Installation is the reverse of removal.
Why can't I find a new aftermarket switch for my car?
The 1981-1985 Dodge Colt is over 40 years old. Aftermarket manufacturers stop producing non-critical parts for older, less common vehicles as demand falls. The low production numbers and age of the vehicle make it unprofitable to continue manufacturing these specific switches.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD730979 MD726023
Typically a 2-pin, screw-in switch located on the transmission housing. Connector shape and thread pitch are critical for matching.
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.
- Dodge Colt: