Finding a Back Up Light Switch for a 1983-1987 Dodge Dart
Important information for owners of 1980s-era Dodge vehicles regarding parts availability for the Dodge Dart.
- The Dodge Dart was not manufactured for the North American market between 1983 and 1987.
- No new aftermarket or OEM Back Up Light Switches are available for a 1983-1987 Dodge Dart.
- Owners should verify their vehicle's actual model, as it is likely another 1980s Dodge like an Aries, Charger, or Diplomat.
- Parts for the classic (pre-1977) or modern (post-2012) Dodge Dart are not compatible.
A Note on Vehicle History
If you are searching for a back up light switch for a 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, or 1987 Dodge Dart, it is crucial to know that the Dodge Dart was not produced for the North American market during this period. The original production run of the Dodge Dart in North America ended in 1976. The name was not used again in this market until 2013 on a completely different compact car.
Because no Dodge Dart model exists for the 1983-1987 model years in the U.S., there are no new aftermarket or original equipment (OEM) back up light switches manufactured for it. Any search for this part will show results for the classic pre-1977 models or the modern 2013-2016 models, neither of which will fit.
Verify Your Vehicle Model
It is highly likely that your vehicle is a different Dodge model from that era. Chrysler/Dodge produced several popular cars during the 1980s, and it's easy to confuse them. Please check your vehicle's documentation or VIN to confirm if you own one of these models instead:
- Dodge Aries
- Dodge 600
- Dodge Charger
- Dodge Omni
- Dodge Lancer
- Dodge Diplomat
Once you correctly identify your vehicle, you will be able to find the correct back up light switch.
The "Mexican Dart" K-Car
Some confusion may arise from the fact that Chrysler of Mexico did market a version of the K-platform car (similar to the Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant) under the "Dodge Dart K" nameplate between 1982 and 1989. These vehicles were intended for the Mexican market, and parts are not typically cross-referenced or sold in the U.S. aftermarket under the Dart name for these years. Ordering parts for a U.S.-market vehicle based on this information will result in receiving an incorrect part.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't I find a back up light switch for my 1985 Dodge Dart?
You cannot find parts listed for a 1983-1987 Dodge Dart because the vehicle was not sold in the North American market during those years. Production stopped in 1976 and resumed with a new model in 2013. You likely have a different Dodge model from that time, such as a Dodge Aries or Dodge 600.
Are there any recalls for the 1983-1987 Dodge Dart?
No. A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls for a Dodge Dart from this year range, as the vehicle was not manufactured for the U.S. market. Recalls are vehicle and model-year specific.
I have a Dodge from the 1980s. What should I do?
First, positively identify your vehicle's model name and year using the VIN plate or your ownership documents. Once you have the correct model (e.g., 1985 Dodge Charger), you can search for the correct back up light switch for that specific car.
What if my car was imported from Mexico?
If you have a confirmed "Dart K" imported from Mexico, finding parts will be challenging. These parts are not standard stock in U.S. auto parts stores. You may need to cross-reference part numbers with the equivalent U.S. model, which is likely a Dodge Aries or Plymouth Reliant from the same year, but compatibility is not guaranteed.
Technical Specifications
Not applicable. No parts are manufactured for this vehicle and year range 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.
- Dodge Dart: