Solving Back Up Light Switch Issues on the 1967-1971 Pontiac Firebird
If your reverse lights have stopped working, the back up light switch is a common but tricky culprit to diagnose.
- Crucially identify your car's year AND transmission type before buying a switch.
- The switch location is on the transmission (67-68 manual), shifter/column (67-68 auto), or steering column (69-71 all).
- Always check fuses, bulbs, grounds, and linkage adjustment before condemning the switch.
- For automatic models, a faulty switch can also cause a no-start condition.
Is Your Back Up Light Switch Failing?
On a classic car like the first-generation Pontiac Firebird, electrical gremlins are common. If your back-up lights are out, the switch is a likely suspect, but it's not a simple one-size-fits-all part. Decades of different configurations and owner modifications mean you need to know exactly what your car has before you buy.
Critical: Identify Your Switch Before Ordering
The location and type of back up light switch changed during this period. Ordering the wrong one is the most common mistake.
- 1967-1968 Manual: The switch is typically a plunger-style unit mounted directly on the transmission, activated by the shifter linkage.
- 1967-1968 Automatic: The switch is integrated into the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS). It's located on the shifter assembly 🎬 Watch this guide on installing a console-mounted neutral safety switch. if you have a center console, or on the steering column for column-shift cars.
- 1969-1971 (All Models): The switch is located at the base of the steering column 🎬 See how the steering column switch and back-drive linkage operate. and is activated by a 'back-drive' linkage rod from the transmission. This was part of the new steering lock feature introduced in 1969.
Symptoms of a Bad Back Up Light Switch
A failing switch will give you clear signs. The most obvious is that your reverse lights simply don't turn on. You might also see them flicker or, in the case of an internal short, they might stay on all the time, draining your battery and confusing other drivers. For automatic cars where the switch is part of the NSS, a failure can also lead to a no-start condition or, more dangerously, allow the engine to crank while in gear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For a simple replacement part like this, aftermarket options offer good value. Original OEM switches are long gone, so you'll be choosing between New Old Stock (NOS) parts at a high cost, or modern reproductions. Aftermarket quality is generally very good for this component.
- Standard Replacement (Recommended): Brands like Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) are a reliable choice. They produce quality, direct-fit electrical components that meet or exceed original specifications and are trusted in the restoration community.
- Performance Brands: A brand like Mcleod is well-known for high-performance transmission parts like clutches and shifters. While they may offer a switch, their focus is not typically on stock-style electrical replacements. For a standard repair, sticking with a dedicated electrical parts manufacturer is usually the best bet.
Pro Tip: Before replacing the switch, check the simple things first. Ensure the fuse is good, the bulbs aren't burned out, and the sockets have a clean ground. 🎬 Check out this video for troubleshooting classic car backup light issues. On many of these cars, the linkage that activates the switch is missing or out of adjustment, especially if headers were installed or the transmission was swapped.
Cost of Replacing a Back Up Light Switch (1967-1971 Firebird)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $40 - $47 |
| New OEM (NOS) | $80 - $150+ (if found) |
| Used OEM | $20 - $40 (Not Recommended) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are my reverse lights not working if the switch is new?
The problem often lies beyond the switch itself. Check for a blown fuse, bad bulbs, or poor grounds at the tail lights. Most importantly, verify the mechanical linkage that activates the switch is present and properly adjusted. It's common for this linkage to be removed and never reinstalled during other repairs.
Is the Back Up Light Switch the same as the Neutral Safety Switch?
On 1967-1968 automatic transmission Firebirds, yes, they are two functions of the same part. The switch has separate circuits for the backup lights (pink and green wires) and the neutral safety function (purple wires). On all other models for this generation, they are separate components.
Can I replace this switch myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-friendly job for someone with basic mechanical skills. Access is the main challenge. Depending on your car's configuration, you may need to work under the car, remove the center console, or work under the dashboard. Adjusting the new switch to activate at the right time is the final, crucial step.
My Firebird was converted from an automatic to a manual. What switch do I use?
This is a common scenario that causes confusion. If the car is a 1969 or later, the column-mounted switch should still work if the correct manual transmission linkage is installed. For 1967-1968 models, you will need to add the transmission-mounted switch and bracket for the manual transmission and wire it in. Often, previous owners bypass the switch entirely, which is why you may find disconnected wires.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 1993420 1993413
Varies by transmission and year. Manual transmission switches are typically plunger-activated. Automatic switches are integrated into the Neutral Safety Switch (1967-68) or are a rotary switch on the steering column (1969-71).
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Back Up Light Switch Failing?
- Critical: Identify Your Switch Before Ordering
- Symptoms of a Bad Back Up Light Switch
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
- Cost of Replacing a Back Up Light Switch (1967-1971 Firebird)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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