Is your Ford F150 tailgate won’t open? Don’t worry! I’ll help you out with the issues.
A Ford F-150 tailgate that won’t open can be frustrating for anyone. Worse, in some cases, there may be a major mechanical problem.
But why does it happen?
The most common reasons behind the problem are worn components, loose rods, frozen actuators, damaged plastic components, and rust or dirt accumulation.
But don’t freak out if your tailgate isn’t opening. In this article, we’ll discuss all the possible reasons for this and how to fix it.
So let’s start!
Please Note: This guide applies to any Ford F150 truck, regardless of the model year.
Common years with this problem are Ford F150 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021.
5 Reasons Your Ford F150 Tailgate Won’t Open
The main reasons your Ford F150 truck’s tailgate won’t open are:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Worn Components | Replace and remove the panel and check for wear or rust. Adjust clips if needed. |
| Loose or Misaligned Rods | Adjust slack in rods using retaining clips, and secure them in position |
| Frozen Actuator | Apply gentle pressure to free it or replace the actuator. Use rods for quick access. |
| Damaged Plastic Components | Replace damaged plastic parts. |
| Rust or Dirt Accumulation | Use a wire brush to remove rust and apply lubricant for smooth movement. |
1. Worn Components
A common reason manual tailgates don’t open is worn-out parts.
Over time, frequent use and weather can damage parts like the handle, latches, and rods connecting them. Loose or old ribbons can also weaken the handle’s grip on the latches.
Replace these parts through the panel. Look for the eight screws on the tailgate panel and remove them using a T30 Torx screwdriver.
Check the handles, latches, and rods for cracks, looseness, or rust. Check out signs of wear or damage on all these parts.
If there are any broken or worn parts, replace them with new ones.
2. Loose or Misaligned Rods
If the rods are loose or not lined up, the handle might not open the tailgate. It happens because the rods connecting the handle to the latches on the gate sides become loose or misaligned.
When this happens, pulling the handle doesn’t create enough force to work the latches.
To fix this, remove the tailgate access panel first. Then, find the rods linking the handle to the latches. These rods are usually held by retaining clips.
Use a flat-head screwdriver to open the clips. Pull the rods gently to reduce any slack without making them too tight.
Next, secure the rods by placing the retaining clips back in position on both ends. Finally, push the handle forward to set the latches and test the tailgate.
3. Frozen Actuator
In power tailgates, a frozen actuator can stop the tailgate from working completely. This small device controls the latches.
It can break due to cold weather or mechanical issues, preventing the tailgate from opening.
To fix it, remove the rear panel to reach the actuator. Check the cog or wheel on it. Try moving it by hand. If it’s stuck, apply gentle pressure to free it from the ice.
If this doesn’t work, I suggest replacing the actuator with a new one. Test the tailgate after reconnecting it.
If you’re in a hurry and need a quick fix, pull the rods attached to the latches to open the tailgate. However, replacing the actuator is best for a long-term solution.
4. Damaged Plastic Components
Rubber or plastic parts in the tailgate system can wear out with frequent use.
Common parts include handle housings and latching tools. Over time, these parts may crack or break, causing the tailgate to fail.
If any parts are damaged, replace them for smooth operation. Check for cracks, missing pieces, or worn sections on the plastic components. Cut out broken sections and install matching replacements.
Ensure the new parts fit your F-150 model perfectly. Reattach the access panel and test the tailgate to see if it works well.
5. Rust or Dirt Accumulation
Rust, dirt, and debris can stop parts from moving freely. It can make opening the tailgate very hard or even impossible.
You can fix this by cleaning and oiling the parts. To reach the rods and locks, remove the access panel.
Use a wire brush or cloth to scrub away the dirt and rust. Apply oil or spray to cover all moving parts. Avoid grease, as it can trap more dirt.
After applying oil, press the button and move the tailgate up and down several times. It spreads the lubricant and makes the tailgate work smoothly again.
Can a broken latch stop the tailgate from opening?
Yes, a broken tailgate latch can prevent the tailgate from opening. If the latch is broken, you can try these steps to fix it:
- Remove the front truck bed plastic panel
- Loosen the bolts that hold the latches in place
- Re-torque the bolts to 10 N-m
- Make sure the latches move freely
What if the electronic release isn’t working in the Ford F150?
If the electronic release isn’t working in your Ford F-150, you can try these steps:
- Turn off the car, lock the driver’s door, and wait for 2 minutes. Then, restart the car.
- Press the alarm button on your key fob, check the door lock and handle for damage, and use the correct key.
- Enter the factory code, press 1 and 2 quickly, then hold 1 and 2 for two seconds.
- Start the car, press the throttle pedal, flip the switch up, turn off the ignition, and turn it back on within 5 seconds.
Is it expensive to repair a tailgate?
Fixing a Ford F-150 tailgate can be costly, depending on the damage. Small dents or scratches may cost less. But if the parts or the tailgate mechanism need fixing, it can be expensive.
Can I prevent my F150’s tailgate from getting stuck?
Yes, you can prevent your Ford F-150’s tailgate from getting stuck:
- Clean the tailgate latch regularly to keep it free from dirt.
- Lubricate the latch mechanism to help it move smoothly.
- Check the rubber seals and tailgate parts for any damage.
- Install a tailgate assist system to avoid slamming and jamming.
- If it still sticks often, ask a mechanic to check for deeper problems.
Final Words
So, do you see how easy it is to fix a Ford F-150 tailgate issue? In most cases, some basic troubleshooting can solve the problems. But if there is a major mechanical problem, you need to seek help from a professional.
