What year did Chrysler switch to electronic ignition?
Chrysler began transitioning away from traditional points-based ignition in the early 1970s, with the first factory electronic ignition installations appearing around 1972 and widespread adoption following over the next few years. The change, driven by reliability and maintenance benefits, unfolded gradually across the brand’s Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler vehicles.
The timeline of adoption
Here's a concise timeline outlining how Chrysler rolled out electronic ignition across its lineup.
- 1972 — First factory electronic ignition systems introduced on select engines as part of Chrysler's EI program.
- 1973 — Expanded use to additional engines and models, marking broader adoption across the lineup.
- 1974 — Most Chrysler passenger-car engines feature electronic ignition; traditional points systems are largely phased out.
- Mid- to late-1970s — Ongoing refinements and integration with timing controls and related ignition components continue across more configurations.
In summary, Chrysler’s shift to electronic ignition began in the early 1970s, with broad adoption by the mid-1970s and ongoing refinements thereafter.
Why electronic ignition mattered
The move to electronic ignition offered tangible benefits for owners and restorers alike: improved reliability, reduced maintenance (no regular point adjustments or replacements), and more consistent spark timing. This transition also laid groundwork for later, more sophisticated electronic control systems that would accompany fuel injection and onboard diagnostics in subsequent decades.
Practical notes for restoration and maintenance
For enthusiasts restoring Mopar classics, knowing when electronic ignition arrived helps determine which parts are authentic for a given year. The era of EI affects distributor design, ignition coils, wiring harnesses, and related modules. The following points provide guidance for identifying and sourcing correct components.
- Early EI systems (circa 1972–1973) often used a distributor with an electronic trigger and a separate control module housed near or within the distributor.
- Mid- to late-1970s models moved toward more integrated electronic controls; verify year and engine family when selecting parts.
- Coil, ballast resistor, and wiring configurations can differ between EI and points-based setups; consult the appropriate service manuals for exact specifications per model year.
Understanding these distinctions helps ensure period accuracy and reliable performance in a restoration project.
Summary
Chrysler’s transition from points to electronic ignition took shape in the early 1970s, with the first factory EI installations around 1972 and broad adoption by 1974. The shift yielded improved reliability and laid the groundwork for later electronic systems that would become standard across Mopar vehicles.
What year did Chrysler start using electronic ignition?
1972
The Mopar electronic ignition system introduced in 1972 was cutting edge in its day. While everyone else was using the ancient points-type ignitions, Chrysler scooped 'em all with the electronic unit.
What year did electronic ignition come out?
Electronic ignition was developed in the late 1940s, with its first optional and standard-fit applications appearing in the 1960s and 1970s. Chrysler made it standard in 1973, followed by GM, Ford, and AMC making it standard in 1975, which is when it became widespread on most new cars.
- Early development: The first electronic ignition systems were tested in the late 1940s and early 1960s.
- First optional use: Pontiac was the first automaker to offer it as an option on some models in 1963. Ford followed with optional systems in 1965.
- First standard-fit: FIAT was the first to offer a standard-fit electronic ignition in 1968, though it wasn't sold in the US.
- Widespread adoption: Chrysler made electronic ignition standard in 1973, and other major manufacturers like GM, Ford, and AMC followed suit in 1975.
What was Chrysler Lean Burn?
And on the highway. Timing was slowed when the car was driving in the city. And when air temperature to protect against detonation. So it was named lean burn by the marketers.
What year did they stop using points in cars?
1970s
The first point-style ignition distributor was developed around 1910 to improve on the difficulties experienced with magneto-type ignition systems for automotive use. This point-style ignition was such a success that it was ultimately used in production cars until the mid-1970s.
