Tailgate lock repair - Cars & Trucks

Have a look to see if something is lodged between 2 surfaces, lets say between the truck bed and the tailgate, maybe something lodged in the tailgate locking mechanisms, clean it out if something is lodged in there, lets say a small piece of wood.

Also check the moving parts which is connected to the locking mechanisms for the tailgate, something could be seized, maybe needs replacement or needs to be freed up with penetrating fluid and once its moves freely spray white grease on it.

Also make sure the tailgate is not damaged in such way that it prevents it from properly closing.

If you have looked at it, and its all clear then the tailgate maybe just not working and needs to get the tailgate inside moving parts, repaired or replaced to get it functioning again.

Hope this helps, have a nice day.

Sounds like a bad switch on the tailgate. Open your tailgate and look for a switch. When you find it...press it in completely and see if the sensor light goes off. If so, replace it.

Semper Fi,
Z

If this is an original equipment replacement part should work just like its predeceser before the accident. Just check that everything is wel connected and in place by removing the panels and take a look inside.

Annoying, but easy to fix: Actuate the opening handle and manually rotate the latch to the open position.

Had a similar problem, found the tailgate was not closed all the way. Close the tailgate real hard and then lock with the key fob.

Sounds like the lock actuator in the tailgate has gone bad. I have a 1999 that had the same problem. Its about a 120 part from the chrysler dealership and involves taking the interior trim off the tailgate to repair.

First thing: Try using the key to move to the locked and then to the unlocked position. If this works, open the tailgate... This also pretty much tells you what the root cause problem is, which is a pressed-in plastic post working its way out (see below).

If no bedliner, just remove metal plate inside tailgate and actuate by hand inside to open. If bedliner, first use a small screwdriver to carefully (don't scratch paint) push in latches at either side of tailgate to open/lower tailgate (if locking/unlocking as above did not work to lower gate and gain access). Next, use two blade screwdrivers to pry out the "buttons" that hold the ends of the tailgate liner where they wrap around the sides, then remove bedliner piece and metal plate, etc.

Once you have access to inside of tailgate, you will see how the mechanism works by pulling up and down on the handle while observing. You will probably find that the slide mechism that locks and unlocks the mechanism has been allowed to move such that it cannot unlock/allow movement of the latching mechanism. This is usually the result of the pressed in plastic anchor being worn/loose. I had some success with cleaning thoroughly with alcohol or brake cleaner, allowing to dry and then using super glue to hold it firmly in all the way. Still have to hold handle up when closing gate and keep key on hand to unlock every time opening, but it was a free repair...

Unfortunately, This is a very common problem with Ford Explorers! Ford replaces the locks when it encounters this issue. I managed to unseize my passanger door and tailgate lock, but the drivers door lock is broken beyond repair. You can purchase new remotes for your explorer and program them very easily. Just google ford key fobs...

The micro-switch is fitted inthe lock of the tailgate.Try opening the tailgate and manually close the lock and see if the boot light and the dash indicater light go off,if not,replace boot lock.If the lights go off,tailgate not closing properly,adjust the boot lock catch.Good luck

I don't think you need a wiring diagram.
Jeep had alot of problems with the lock accuator in the tailgate.