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2021 Taco TRD Sport Tailgate Stuck

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by Dj GQ, Sep 2, 2025.

  1. Sep 2, 2025 at 2:54 PM
    #1
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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    Hello, I am at the end of my rope here and hoping someone can shed some light on my situation. I have a 2021 Taco TRD Sport. The fob opens all doors and tailgate. now the tail gate won't open. I tried the fob key and nothing. it's like it's stuck on lock and can't unlock it. I finally got the plastic cover off the tail gate so I can open it. but they look of it the only way I can get it open is by pulling on the 2 bars inside the tailgate. has this ever happened to you? what parts did you purchase to fix it? Thank you in advance.

    taco.jpg
    taco1.jpg
    taco2.png
     
  2. Sep 2, 2025 at 3:10 PM
    #2
    TA2016

    TA2016 Well-Known Member

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    Check out post #11 on this thread.

    https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tailgate-stuck.754775/
     
  3. Sep 2, 2025 at 3:43 PM
    #3
    3JOH22A

    3JOH22A トヨタ純正男娼

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    If there's no obvious debris block the mechanism, spray the linkages with white lithium grease and see if it frees up. Do you see any hint of movement when you lock/unlock with the fob? Like the actuator making noise, trying to move, but couldn't?
     
  4. Sep 2, 2025 at 4:38 PM
    #4
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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    No debris whatsoever. there used to be a popping noise when locking & unlocking from the tail gate but now I don't hear the pop anymore.
     
  5. Sep 2, 2025 at 4:44 PM
    #5
    3JOH22A

    3JOH22A トヨタ純正男娼

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    ^Do you hear any faint tapping noise from the actuator now when you lock/unlock with the fob? Basically the intent is to isolate the problem between a failed actuator and wiring.
     
  6. Sep 2, 2025 at 4:50 PM
    #6
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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    yes, that popping noise I faint now. Thank you for your help
     
  7. Sep 2, 2025 at 4:51 PM
    #7
    3JOH22A

    3JOH22A トヨタ純正男娼

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    ^That means the actuator is getting a signal but unable to move. Time to replace the actuator.
     
    Dj GQ[QUOTED][OP] likes this.
  8. Sep 2, 2025 at 4:54 PM
    #8
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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  9. Sep 2, 2025 at 5:21 PM
    #9
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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    Thank you so much. Would it be too much trouble if you know where I can get the pert or should I just go to Toyota to get it?
     
  10. Sep 3, 2025 at 7:33 AM
    #10
    3JOH22A

    3JOH22A トヨタ純正男娼

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    ^You can ask the dealer parts counter if they sell the actuator on its own. If they can only sell the full kit ($260), I suggest aftermarket sources:
    https://www.tacomaworld.com/posts/30735318/

    Alternatively I think you can remove the actuator and lock/unlock manually with the mechanical key. Else you may be faced with the same problem in a few years.
     
    Last edited: Sep 3, 2025 at 7:44 AM
    musicisevil likes this.
  11. Sep 3, 2025 at 10:12 AM
    #11
    Dj GQ

    Dj GQ [OP] Member

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    THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR HELP!
     

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