How to Replace the Tailgate Latch on a Toyota Truck

The Toyota truck series is known for its longevity as well as its reliability. But as on any other vehicle, parts on Toyota trucks can get damaged or break and require replacement. If your tailgate latch fails, you won't be able to shut the gate until it's fixed, which means the usefulness of your truck is restricted. Fortunately, tailgate latch repair isn't a difficult job. It will take about 30 minutes to do this correctly.

Things You'll Need

  • 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
  • Replacement latch assembly
  • Open the tailgate on your Toyota truck, and locate the broken latch on the tailgate body. Unbolt the latch using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.

  • Pull out the latch from the body, and disconnect the handle linkage from the latch using your hands.

  • Connect the replacement latch to the handle linkage by hand. Then bolt the latch into the tailgate, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.

  • Open and close the Toyota tailgate to make sure it functions correctly.