2020 Ford F-150 Tailgate Problems? Here's How to Fix It

How to Fix Your Tailgate

Dealing with a problematic tailgate on your 2020 Ford F-150 can be frustrating. Sometimes it refuses to drop correctly, hindering your truck's functionality. As one owner shared: "Sometimes mine won't drop if I'm on an incline that puts the tailgate higher than the rest of the truck. It still needs some help from gravity to work." (source) This guide will help you diagnose and address common tailgate issues specific to the 2020 F-150.

Symptoms

The most common symptom reported by 2020 Ford F-150 owners is difficulty in opening or dropping the tailgate. This can manifest in several ways. For example, the tailgate might require extra force to open, or it might not open at all under certain conditions. This is often exacerbated when the truck is parked on an incline, hindering the natural operation of the tailgate mechanism.

Another symptom some owners have noticed is a ticking sound coming from the tailgate area. While the exact cause of this ticking isn't always clear, it often signals an issue with the internal mechanisms responsible for latching and unlatching the tailgate. Investigating the source of the ticking is a good starting point for diagnosing the problem.

Issues also arise with specific tailgate features. The 2020 F-150 offers various tailgate configurations, including those with swing-out middle doors and integrated steps. Owners have reported potential sagging issues with the split 3-piece tailgates as they age, affecting alignment and functionality. Be mindful of these more complex mechanisms during diagnosis.

Another symptom related to the tailgate involves damage from rear-end collisions. As one owner recounted: "Lucky first vehicle in a 1-2-3 rear ender. This will mean a new rear bumper and taillight, paint and bodywork on the tailgate and corner of the bedside." (source) Even minor impacts can misalign the tailgate, leading to difficulty in opening and closing, as well as potential damage to the latching mechanism.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the most likely cause of tailgate problems in the 2020 F-150 is a malfunction in the open mechanism. This mechanism encompasses all the components involved in releasing and dropping the tailgate, including latches, cables, and hinges. Over time, these parts can become worn, corroded, or misaligned, leading to operational difficulties.

The open mechanism's performance is also sensitive to external factors. Inclines, as mentioned by one owner, can add extra strain, making it harder for the mechanism to function correctly. Environmental factors, such as dirt and debris, can also accumulate within the mechanism, hindering its smooth operation. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintaining its functionality.

Furthermore, the complexity of the tailgate design, particularly with features like the swing-out middle door, introduces more potential points of failure. "i work for a ford dealership and i’m calling it now, these split 3 piece tailgates are gonna sag so bad once they are older. some of the brand new trucks the door is already sagging abit, i personally wouldn’t touch that shit" (source As this quote highlights, even new trucks can exhibit signs of sagging, which can worsen over time and contribute to open mechanism problems.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a tailgate issue requires a systematic approach. Start by visually inspecting the tailgate for any obvious signs of damage, misalignment, or corrosion. Pay close attention to the hinges, latches, and cables, looking for anything that appears out of place or damaged.

Next, test the tailgate's operation under different conditions. Try opening and closing it on level ground, as well as on slight inclines. Note any differences in its behavior. If the tailgate only malfunctions on an incline, this suggests a sensitivity to load or positioning.

Listen carefully for any unusual noises during operation. A ticking sound, as mentioned earlier, can indicate a problem with the internal mechanism. Also, check for any grinding or scraping sounds, which might suggest worn or misaligned parts.

To delve deeper, you may need to remove the tailgate's access panel to inspect the internal components. This will require basic tools like screwdrivers and sockets. Once inside, examine the cables, latches, and hinges more closely. Look for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Also, check the tension and movement of the cables.

Finally, consider using a multimeter to test the electrical components, if applicable. Some 2020 F-150 tailgates include electronic locking mechanisms or remote release features. If these are not working correctly, a multimeter can help you identify any electrical faults.

Step-by-Step Fix

Here's a step-by-step guide to addressing common tailgate issues:

1. Clean the tailgate: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the tailgate, paying close attention to the hinges, latches, and surrounding areas. Use a degreaser to remove any accumulated dirt and grime.
2. Lubricate the moving parts: Apply a lubricant, such as WD-40 or silicone spray, to all moving parts of the tailgate mechanism, including the hinges, latches, and cables. This will help ensure smooth operation.
3. Adjust the rubber stops: The tailgate has rubber stops that cushion its movement and prevent rattling. Check the condition of these stops and adjust them as needed. If they are worn or damaged, replace them.
4. Inspect and adjust the latches: Carefully inspect the latches for any signs of wear or damage. If they are misaligned, adjust them so that they engage properly with the tailgate striker.
5. Check and replace the cables: Examine the tailgate cables for any signs of fraying, kinking, or corrosion. If the cables are damaged, replace them.
6. Address sagging issues: As one owner pointed out, split 3-piece tailgates are prone to sagging. If you notice any sagging, you may need to adjust the hinges or latches to realign the tailgate. In severe cases, you may need to replace the entire tailgate assembly.
7. Replace weather stripping: Inspect the weather stripping around the tailgate and replace if broken or worn out.
8. Test the tailgate operation: After making any adjustments or repairs, test the tailgate operation to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly. Repeat this test several times to verify that the problem has been resolved.
9. Address incline issues: If the tailgate only malfunctions on an incline, consider adding extra support to the tailgate when parked on an incline. This can be achieved by using a tailgate support bar or by parking on a level surface whenever possible.
10. Professional Inspection: If you are unsure about any of these steps, seek a professional inspection.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Degreaser
• Lubricant (WD-40, silicone spray)
• Rubber stops (part number varies depending on model)
• Tailgate cables (part number varies depending on model)
• Weather stripping (part number varies depending on model)
• Multimeter (if applicable)

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing a tailgate issue on your 2020 Ford F-150 can vary widely, depending on the severity of the problem and whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional.

For minor issues, such as cleaning and lubricating the tailgate mechanism, the cost can be minimal. You may only need to spend a few dollars on cleaning supplies and lubricant.

If you need to replace worn parts, such as rubber stops or tailgate cables, the cost will be higher. Rubber stops typically cost around $10-$20 each, while tailgate cables can range from $30-$50 per cable.

For more complex issues, such as sagging or damage from a collision, the cost can be significantly higher. Replacing the entire tailgate assembly can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500, depending on the model and features.

If you choose to hire a professional mechanic, you can expect to pay labor costs in addition to the cost of parts. Labor rates typically range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on your location and the mechanic's experience.

Here are a few examples of real owner costs:

• Cleaning and lubricating tailgate mechanism: $5-$10 (DIY)
• Replacing rubber stops: $20-$40 (DIY)
• Replacing tailgate cables: $60-$100 (DIY)
• Replacing entire tailgate assembly: $500-$1500 (DIY or professional)
• Professional labor for tailgate repair: $75-$300+ (depending on the complexity of the job)

Prevention

Preventing tailgate issues on your 2020 Ford F-150 involves regular maintenance and care. Here are some tips to help you keep your tailgate in good working order:

• Regularly clean and lubricate the tailgate mechanism. This will help prevent dirt and grime from accumulating, which can hinder its smooth operation.
• Avoid slamming the tailgate. Slamming can damage the latches and hinges. Instead, gently lower the tailgate and allow it to latch securely.
• Be careful when loading and unloading cargo. Avoid placing excessive weight on the tailgate, as this can cause it to sag or become misaligned. As one owner shared: "I had a shorter bed before and I hated how much I had to hang things over the tailgate" (source. Distribute the weight evenly and avoid overloading the tailgate.
• Park on level ground whenever possible. Parking on an incline can put extra strain on the tailgate mechanism, especially when opening or closing the tailgate.
• Protect the tailgate from damage. Avoid hitting the tailgate against objects or backing into obstacles. Consider installing a tailgate protector to prevent scratches and dents.
• Inspect the tailgate regularly. Check the hinges, latches, and cables for any signs of wear or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more serious problems.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Success Stories

"Didn’t break the paint but got a small ding. When we get to spring I might have the PDR shop that fixed the hail damage repair this ding along a few others that were there when I bought it." — Stosh21 (source)

"When we get to spring I might have the PDR shop that fixed the hail damage repair this ding along a few others that were there when I bought it." — Stosh21 (source)

Owner Experiences

"Sometimes mine won't drop if I'm on an incline that puts the tailgate higher than the rest of the truck. It still needs some help from gravity to work." — hbpaintballer88 (source)

"It’s like putting a big sign across the back, if you add a door, the signs gonna block it, so they have to remove it. Then your backend will look like an XLT" — KlausS1000 (source)

"So the pro access is the little door that opens outward from the tailgate, so if they add that then you lose the step up but you also lose the big chrome banner that reads King Ranch." — KlausS1000 (source)

Real Repair Costs

"You don’t want to be paying for a tranny that should have been fixed under warranty and be $9k out of your own pocket. They are great trucks if the fixes are taken care of." — KnotTodayChief (source)

"Quote: Originally Posted by KennyCJR Yep. Larry has the sticker game on lock! 😂😂 It’s expensive, but my current truck has really good resale value, so I’d likely finance around $30k." — larryo108 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a tailgate issue?

A: The time it takes to fix a tailgate issue can vary depending on the severity of the problem. Minor issues, such as cleaning and lubricating the mechanism, can be resolved in as little as 30 minutes. More complex issues, such as replacing the entire tailgate assembly, can take several hours.

Q: Can I drive with a malfunctioning tailgate?

A: It depends on the nature of the malfunction. If the tailgate is not latching properly, it is not safe to drive, as it could open unexpectedly and cause cargo to spill out. If the tailgate is simply difficult to open or close, it may be safe to drive, but it is still recommended to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Ford F-150?

A: While not all 2020 Ford F-150s experience tailgate problems, it is a relatively common issue, particularly with models that have more complex tailgate designs, such as the split 3-piece tailgate. As mentioned earlier, these tailgates are prone to sagging and misalignment over time.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Whether to DIY or hire a mechanic depends on your skill level and the complexity of the repair. If you are comfortable with basic mechanical tasks, such as cleaning, lubricating, and replacing simple parts, you may be able to resolve the issue yourself. However, if the problem is more complex or involves electrical components, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.