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2021 Tacoma - Tailgate wont lock with key unless I lift handle?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by problemcars, Dec 23, 2024.

  1. Dec 23, 2024 at 4:55 PM
    #1
    problemcars

    problemcars [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 28, 2024
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    Hi All,

    i have a 2021 Tacoma that I’ve owned since new. Recently, the tailgate will not lock with the key unless I lift the handle while turning the lock.

    It unlocks without issue. The key rotates smoothly in both directions.
    Any and all advice is appreciated!
     
  2. Dec 23, 2024 at 7:11 PM
    #2
    Tacomike18

    Tacomike18 Well-Known Member

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    J
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    2018
    Remove the panel and lube it up. And check for loose bolts that hold the latch on and make sure the striker bolts are tight also.
     
    problemcars[OP], Chew and LOLLY like this.
  3. Dec 23, 2024 at 7:16 PM
    #3
    LOLLY

    LOLLY Well-Known Member

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    First Name:
    Alfredo
    Norwalk, CA
    Vehicle:
    '05 Tacoma DCLB TRD Sport (RIP) Now '21 TRD Off-Road
    And you can wire in an actuator while you're in there so you don't have to use the key anymore.
     
    Chew likes this.
  4. Dec 24, 2024 at 3:28 AM
    #4
    Mas Olas

    Mas Olas Well-Known Member

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    Woody
    10 miles north or 400 miles south of the border.
    Vehicle:
    2020 Blacked-Out White DCLB TRD OffRoad 4x4
    Pop-n-lock is one of the best mods.
     
    Chew and Greg-tacoma like this.
  5. Dec 24, 2024 at 9:10 AM
    #5
    problemcars

    problemcars [OP] New Member

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    I would love to but I use my truck for commercial use and my insurance company won't allow the back of the truck to unlock with the same system as the cab. (I have a cap on the back).
     
    eurowner likes this.
  6. Dec 24, 2024 at 10:58 AM
    #6
    caribe makaira

    caribe makaira Well-Known Member

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    Caribbean, Puerto Rico
    Vehicle:
    05 PreRunner TRD Offroad AutoTrans
    Hood Struts, My version Fogs always ON, Map & Overhead Light Mod,
    So connect the tailgate lock like OEM, on second press to unlock (passenger's side):burp:
     
    Willy Lump Lump likes this.
  7. Dec 24, 2024 at 10:58 AM
    #7
    Mas Olas

    Mas Olas Well-Known Member

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    Male
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    Woody
    10 miles north or 400 miles south of the border.
    Vehicle:
    2020 Blacked-Out White DCLB TRD OffRoad 4x4
    I have a cap as well. Sucks about the insurance co.
     
  8. Dec 24, 2024 at 8:20 PM
    #8
    Max8

    Max8 Thinking Outside The Box until they close the lid

    Joined:
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    23 SR5 DCLB stock
    2012 ARE DCU contractor cap, Transmission aftercooler kit (Iconic Fabrication & Hayden 698), Bed Stiffeners (Kwikfab LLC), Firestone airbag leaf springs, wye connector and pressure gauge, Tailgate security mod (mfgr. by Christian06 on TW), OEM mud flaps, OEM tailgate electronic lock, Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller, Anytime Backup Camera hardwired 42 ft to camper, RCI Alum. Skid plates & cat covers, 2WD LO mod (BB Tuning), Fumoto oil drain, ECT Always-On Mod (hardness by Funman1steve), 6awg DC DC tow charger wiring, inline 60 amp breakers & battery terminals, Kill switch, KJTO driver side grab handle, Hood hold open gas struts, Scangauge III, Seat Covers (Seat Covers Unlimited... wearing poorly),
    Can you explain the insurance issue? Googled it without finding prohibitive language. Would benefit us GC's to know if there's an issue with electronic locking of tailgate via keyfob.
     

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