Ford Tailgates

• The Ford F-150 is a beloved American workhorse, with its tailgate receiving heavy use and wear.
• A tailgate is essentially a truck, SUV, or van’s door access to its rear storage compartment
• Tailgates can be opened manually or electronically.
• Based on mechanism, these can be classified as drop-down, swing, split and multi-way tailgates.
• OEM replacement parts typically cost anywhere between $100 and $500. This part is available for sale individually or as part of a kit.
• Tailgate replacement is essential in securing your truck’s cargo, minimizing future repairs, and protecting it from rust and corrosion.

No other truck is more iconic than the Ford F-150. This much-beloved vehicle has consistently topped sales charts since its debut in 1975. One of the many things that make the F-150 the quintessential American truck is its heavy-duty utility, with the tailgate receiving the most abuse and wear. Let’s take a closer look at how this part works and find out what you need to know when shopping for a replacement Ford F-150 tailgate.

A tailgate is essentially a truck, SUV, or van’s rear access door. This part is typically found on vehicles that have large rear storage compartments. The tailgate allows easy access for loading cargo at the back of the vehicle. It also securely encloses the compartment to prevent payloads from falling off while the vehicle is in motion.

A tailgate assembly is comprised of several parts that are attached to the trunk or bed of a vehicle.

The aluminum or steel panel that acts as the main rear door is called the tailgate shell. Inside this metal panel is a latch mechanism connected to the tailgate handle that allows you to lock it in place. On the side or bottom of the panel are hinges that allow the tailgate shell to swing open and close. Electric mechanisms can also be used to automate these gates.

There are four types of tailgates based on how the door swings open: drop-down, swing, split, and multi-way.

Drop-down

Drop-down tailgates are the most common style of rear doors installed in trucks. This mechanism has hinges fitted at the bottom of the tailgate shell, allowing the door to drop-down. The laid out panel can be used as an extension of the truck bed, providing more space to carry long pieces of pipes or lumber.

Swing

A swing tailgate features hinges installed on the side of the truck bed, allowing the gate to swing open like a regular door. Unlike a drop-down tailgate, this type requires significant space at the rear of the vehicle to completely open the gate.

Split

Split tailgates use a similar hinge mechanism but address the problem of space by using two doors hinged on opposite sides. This type of tailgate is recommended for trucks and vans used for towing. Split doors make it easier to access the back of the vehicle, even if it is hitched to a trailer or camper.

Multi-way

Truck manufacturers have come a long way in innovating tailgate design. We are starting to see newer models feature gates that fold multiple ways, convert into load stops and steps, and transform into functional workbenches on the go.

There have been thirteen generations of the F-series trucks since they were introduced in the mid-40s. Each generation features varying part sizes. To help you find the most accurate fit for your F-150, input your truck’s year, make, and model in our website’s search engine.

The cost a tailgate varies depending on your truck’s year and generation. OEM replacement parts typically cost anywhere between $100 and  $500. This part is available for sale individually or as part of a kit. While it is possible to install this part on your own, we recommend going to a trusted mechanic for proper and secure fitting.

A damaged tailgate reduces the functionality of your truck significantly. To get the most utility out of your Ford F-150, replacing a faulty tailgate must be a priority. Here are other advantages to replacing your truck’s tailgate promptly.

Bent and damaged tailgate can compromise the safety of your truck’s rear compartment. Your truck’s tailgate may accidentally open if the panel is misaligned or if the latches are faulty. Replacing your vehicle’s tailgate after a collision gives you peace of mind that your cargo and payloads will be transported safely and without incident.

Trucks are heavy-duty vehicles, but they aren’t completely safe from damage caused by long-term exposure to the elements. Metal tailgates are prone to developing rust and corrosion over time.

Failing to replace a rusted part can cause the damage to spread to other parts of your vehicle. Internal components inside the tailgate shell are rarely checked until a problem occurs. By this time, the damage may become so extensive that the replacement of the tailgate assembly may be necessary.

It’s easy to neglect stuck tailgates or worn out hinges since these won’t stop your truck from running. However, these small issues can pile up and become a costly repair in the long run. It’s better to replace worn out or loose parts as soon as you notice them to avoid further damage to the assembly that may put your truck out of commission when you need it.