1973-1977 Buick Century Back Up Light Switch and Neutral Safety Switch Guide
Having trouble with your reverse lights or starting your car? Your back up light switch may be the problem.
- On automatic models, this part is a combined Neutral Safety Switch and Back Up Light Switch located on the steering column.
- Symptoms can include no reverse lights, no-start conditions, or lights that are stuck on.
- Standard Ignition is a reliable aftermarket brand for this part; Mcleod is typically for manual transmissions.
- Proper alignment in the NEUTRAL position during installation is critical for correct function.
Is a Failing Back Up Light Switch Causing Your Problems?
A bad back up light switch on a 1973-1977 Buick Century can create confusing issues. Since it's part of the neutral safety switch on most models, symptoms can go beyond just the reverse lights. Before you replace bulbs or check wiring, understand the common signs of a failing switch.
Symptoms of a Bad Switch
- No Reverse Lights: The most common symptom is the reverse lights failing to turn on when you shift into reverse. This is a safety hazard, making it hard for others to see you're backing up, especially at night.
- Reverse Lights Stuck On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, causing the reverse lights to stay on constantly, which can confuse other drivers and quickly burn out your bulbs.
- Car Won't Start: Because the switch is also a neutral safety switch, a failure can prevent the engine from cranking. You might find the car starts in Neutral but not in Park, or vice-versa. In some cases, it may not start at all.
- Flickering Lights: Worn internal contacts can cause the reverse lights to work intermittently or flicker as you move the gear selector.
A Serious Safety Issue
A severely failed switch could potentially allow the car to start while in gear, creating a risk of the vehicle lurching forward or backward unexpectedly. If you experience this, address the issue immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For a vehicle of this age, new original equipment (OEM) parts are generally not available. Aftermarket parts are the most practical and widely available solution. The quality of modern aftermarket switches is typically very reliable for this application.
Available Brands:
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): This is a well-regarded and common choice for replacement electrical parts. Their switches are designed to meet or exceed original specifications and are known for reliable, maintenance-free operation. For a stock 1973-1977 Buick Century, this is a dependable, go-to option.
- Mcleod: Mcleod is a brand known for performance drivetrain components, particularly for manual transmissions. While they make high-quality parts, their switches are often designed for use with aftermarket manual shifters. Unless your Century has been converted to a manual transmission with a performance shifter, a Mcleod switch is likely not the correct application for a stock automatic setup.
Pro Tip: For a stock column-shifted automatic transmission, the Standard Ignition switch is the appropriate choice. Verify the part is listed as a Neutral Safety Switch, which includes the back up light function for your vehicle.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the back up light / neutral safety switch is reasonable, especially if you can do the work yourself.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Switch | $26 - $32 |
| Shop Labor | $90 - $180 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $116 - $212 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the back up light switch located on my 1973-1977 Century?
For models with an automatic transmission and a column shifter, the switch is located on the steering column, underneath the instrument panel. For the rare manual transmission models, the switch is a separate unit typically threaded into the side of the transmission case.
Can I replace this switch myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with basic mechanical skills. It involves working under the dashboard. The key to a successful replacement is correctly aligning the new switch. The switch must be installed with the gear selector in NEUTRAL. Many replacement switches come with a small plastic pin or require you to insert a 3/32" drill bit to hold the alignment during installation. Once installed, moving the shifter shears the pin and sets the alignment.
My reverse lights don't work, but the car starts fine. Is it still the switch?
Yes, it's possible. The neutral safety switch has separate internal contacts for the starting circuit and the reverse light circuit. One can fail while the other still works. However, you should always check the bulbs and the fuse for the reverse lights first, as these are simpler and more common points of failure.
Are there any recalls for this part?
No, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA related to the back up light switch or neutral safety switch for the 1973-1977 Buick Century.
Technical Specifications
Typically a 7-terminal switch that combines neutral safety and back up light functions. Mounts to the steering column on automatic transmission models.
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.