Tailgate not locking

Your lock mechanism issue might be resolved with an application of lubricant to the mechanical parts if you catch it early.

 

Bentarm13. Did you get a chance to check things out yet?

 

Took the cover off. I’ve ordered a new actuator. If any of you get time, take that cover off and look. My entire lock/actuator assembly was covered in close to 1/2” dirt, grease and grime. I have no doubt that led to the failure.

 

Good troubleshooting. You might be surprised it probably still works with some proper cleaning. Isopropyl and a soft brush will do. You can get most of the debris off with an air can.

Don't know what conditions you drive in but a lot of dirt shouldn't be getting in there. Recommend inspecting the cavity in the tailgate to ID the entry point(s) for all that dirt. Drain holes shouldn't be letting that much dirt in. You can't completely seal it since it traps a lot of moisture. Could also be the pass through grommet fell out, where the cables route through the gate.

 

I drive dirty. Handyman business, 2 boys in travel baseball and football. I throw sod, mulch, dirt and whole lot of red clay covered stuff in the bed.

 

Thanks for the update. I think I should check mine.

 

I found this video helpful when I installed a powered OEM tail-gate lock on my truck. It’ll shine some light on how the lock mechanism is hooked up…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSQocmdAmuw&t=55s

 

Hi! I literally just went through all this. I can hear the lock activating, but it doesn’t always lock or unlock. I plucked off that panel on the tailgate (using a T30 I believe), wiped clean as much as I can (covered in grime and dirt that had become about as viscous as dirty petroleum jelly), and sprayed on the silicone version of WD40 (black and yellow can I believe). The spray also loosens the grime, so I cleaned a second time and sprayed again. Works wonderfully now. Let me know if you have any questions, but I didn’t need to buy any new parts. I saw there’s an actuator on Amazon someone suggested, on $9, but I didn’t end up needing it

 

$9 Parts Express High Power Door Lock Actuator 2 Wire

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0088YE6YQ

 

If dirt and grime is your issue, I don’t think a new actuator will help, as it merely attaches to the arm that gets so dirty it won’t move properly. IMO the actuators are just fine in this situation and merely can’t overcome the friction caused by the gunk that has built up.

 

Here is another install video that can give you an idea where to look for.

https://youtu.be/Rf2rek43PRY?si=clEw9UiJKJ--hNjt

 

my pop and lock was workin but it still wouldn't actually lock. found this video and it finally fixed it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3dVglGkirk

 

I've had my Pop and Lock for years.
At least twice I've done your procedure when it wasn't locking and unlocking.
You could hear it doing the motions, but it wasn't locking and unlocking the tailgate.

I've got the old-school metal Pop and Lock.



Been considering getting the newer encased mechanism thinking it may be quieter..
Looks like it has the same tailgate connector to use existing wiring..

 

Not true for me. The actuator is dead, power to it but no function.

 

This is what I bought. Don’t need the whole list but the actuator has the factory plug. I can always find use for the wire.

 

Is this pop n lock? If not, where do I find this? I may purchase one. It’s an easy swap and worth the quick job to not ever have to worry about it again

 

Quick update. I ordered the pop/lock off Amazon for $126. After waiting 4 days, I received a radar mounting kit, so angry. Figured I try local dealer, they will have just the acuator tomorrow for $79. I’m such an idiot…

 

New actuator installed in minutes, problem solved. Thank you all for the advice and guidance!!