I fixed my "broken" tailgate latch and made a video.

[bigskyeric]

Hello everyone,

My Labor day weekend started a few hours later than I planned because I couldn't get my tailgate to latch. The mechanism made the usual noise but didn't close the door.

I didn't trust the videos I found and $200+ for the part sounded terrible. Not to mention I was camping in my 4runner that night and needed to fix it asap.

Here's my quick video I made for this somewhat common issue.
*Please read the description for info I felt I forgot to mention.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsXnrD7XEls

 

[Hmasuko]

My 2007 4runner's mechanical latch is broken as the tailgate stays closed in a locked position. Do you think there are any ways that I can open it as the tailgate closes? I took out all the motors and etc and now I only can see 2 levers. Small one going into the lock mechanism and the big one is only for a serinoid, i believe..... please help....