4th Gen Tailgate Problem

[tekcru]

I've had a huge problem with the tailgate on my 4runner this winter.

The problem is that the electronic latch will only close 1/2 way and then release. I can stand there for 10 min trying to close the door but it wont. The odd part is that the problem is temereature dependant and it only occurs when the outside temp is -5 C (23 F) or colder. I had it checked by Toyota 3 times now but they can't find anything wrong. They finaly replaced the latch under warranty this spring but I guess I won't find out if that has fixed the problem until next winter when the temperature drops.

Has anyone else had this problem?

Anyways I just thought I would let you all know before someone else looses their luggage.

 

[RickyCRX]

I haven't had this problem before, but I have found that if I close the hatch a little too hard, it will latch all the way without the electric mechanism pulling it closed. You will still HEAR the mechanism make its noise, but the hatch will already be fully closed and will not move while you hear the motor in there.

Try it sometime; just slam it a little harder and you'll see what I mean. It will latch fully right away before the motor runs.

Ricky

 

[UoD]

Yeah --- someone rear ended me and my auto-latch wasn't even functioning anymore. If I put a little force into closing it, it would just latch manually. The accident damage has since been fixed of course ... and I have neved noticed any cold weather problems with my auto-latch. Of course --- we don't see many 23 degree days here in Tallahassee.

 

[Krazynative]

I've had a huge problem with the tailgate on my 4runner this winter.

The problem is that the electronic latch will only close 1/2 way and then release. I can stand there for 10 min trying to close the door but it wont. The odd part is that the problem is temereature dependant and it only occurs when the outside temp is -5 C (23 F) or colder. I had it checked by Toyota 3 times now but they can't find anything wrong. They finaly replaced the latch under warranty this spring but I guess I won't find out if that has fixed the problem until next winter when the temperature drops.

Has anyone else had this problem?

Anyways I just thought I would let you all know before someone else looses their luggage.

I am having the same problem! It is definitely temp dependent. I have had it fully latched and while driving and the temp dropped it released on its own.

Did the new assembly fix your issue?