Hello guys. I have a 2003 4Runner and I started to have a problem with my rear gate latch, it makes the sounds like it's latching but the un latches and just will not latch close,, PLEASE HELP ASAP

please

yo man, i don't think that's something anyone hear can diagnose and fix any sooner than if you just took it to the dealer. I would think something like that would still be under warranty...

good luck

probably not under warranty unless you got an extended warranty. 3 years, 36k miles on an '03 is already expired.

I would check a couple of things. First, make sure the tailgate connections at the bottom are clean and clear. Use compressed air to make sure no sand/dirt is in the mechanism. Second, check all around the gate to make sure nothing is pinching or binding like a gasket seal or some piece of carpet caught just over the edge. Third, you could also disconnect one of the hydraulic supports to make sure that those are compressing correctly and eliminate those as a potential source of issues. Fourth, close the tailgate softly and see if it grabs and pulls in.

If you are still having issues, you make have to make a service run.

There is another member with the same problem, and as of right now a diagnosis has not been made. Try locking the truck immediately after closing the gate, if that stops it from reopening, it may be the electronic door switch, as we know the swich is deactivated when the doors are locked.

Sorry, that is all I can offer for now. I have been looking at the parts involved in the door mechanism to locate a possible cause.

This happened to me once. It had to do with some computer box in the hatch. Sorry I can't be more specific but my warranty replaced it.

^^^ makes me wonder why Toyota would make such a simple mechanism like a door latch so complex as to make to electronic...seems more destined to fail eventually. I just hope if it happens to my '07 that it is still under warranty

If you have the repair order, it will list a part#, could you post it if at all possible? The three major components appear to be the mltiplex module $177 the door opener $38 and the lift gate control $44 so its not an outrageous expense.

Prices were obtained at partznet.

Man this was like 2 years ago when it happened, but I do have the work order. They replaced the Multiplex Computer Module.

I think the part number is 1 89222-35010

Oh yeah it says the cause was an open circuit. Hope this helps.