Tailgate Damper Not Working Anymore? Don’t Panic. Try The $5.96 Fix First

I’m sure this has been posted before, but figured I’d say something anyway. There are no original thoughts anymore.

Tailgate damper failed earlier this week. Been running a Mobtown plate for awhile now, so I’m guessing the extra weight may have contributed to its failure.

Looking at parts diagram and the thread on here about the issues on the early 3rd Gens. Wind up at the dealership Parts dept, asking what the Damper costs. 2 parts that total over $200. Leave, deciding not to panic buy parts just because something is broken.

Finally find the time to take the tailgate off, and all that’s broken is the plastic piece in the hinge.

$5.96 later it’s fixed.

 

200 bones ouch, I recently discovered this myself.

Did you remember to burn the dealership down before leaving?

 

Always remember it is pillage, rape, then burn.
Burning first just doesn't work.

 

No, this dealership has actually been good to me, 75% of the time at least.

 

Thanks for posting the part number. I think there are also 3D printed versions floating around that are supposed to last longer.

 

Early 2016 models use a different bushing which is not available. The hinge assembly needs to be changed to use the new (available) bushing.

There is a 3D printed version for the early 2016 Tacoma's. They only last a couple of years. I ordered two so I have a spare.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/broken-tailgate-damper-rubber-grommet.467984/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2016-tailgate-problem.459625/page-4

 

Hello out there in Taco-land!!!! Got a 2022 Taco TRD Sport. Love it, its my 3rd Taco, anyway, back in May 2023 the tailgate dampener took a crap, had dealer fixit, under warranty so no charge!!!!! Fast forward to this week, the repaired one took a crap, after 5 months! Now gota wait for the entire assembly to be ordered & come in, then the part that attaches to the tailgate has to be painted, sheesh! I was told that this is so its covered by a 1 year warranty...? Again there will be no charge!!! I guess Im looking for some input on #1 why it broke again after 5 months and #2 is there any aftermarket parts I can use ? TIA folks!!!!!