Questions about the lift gate window buttons

[Pavement Tested]

So, I've got a Trail Premium with a traditional key and the lift gate has a keyhole vice the up/down buttons that if I'm not mistaken are for the rear window. I'm not familiar with all the options in all the trim levels so I'd like to know a few things.

1: What trim or options come with the buttons?
2: What years was/is it available? I found a thread from '11 about the buttons so I'm sure a '16 was available with them.
3: Can they be added by replacing the gate trim piece?
4: Is a smart key required for them?

 

[harper7]

So, I've got a Trail Premium with a traditional key and the lift gate has a keyhole vice the up/down buttons that if I'm not mistaken are for the rear window. I'm not familiar with all the options in all the trim levels so I'd like to know a few things.

1: What trim or options come with the buttons?
2: What years was/is it available? I found a thread from '11 about the buttons so I'm sure a '16 was available with them.
3: Can they be added by replacing the gate trim piece?
4: Is a smart key required for them?

Pretty sure,If it came with the smart key fob instead of traditional key ,it has up/down buttons.

All Limiteds, 10-22 and not sure what year the other models got the fob, but fairly recent as they all have the fob now. My 22 ORP has the buttons and fob.

No, it can not be added unless custom job as the smart key has a ECU and these tie into it.

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

I have the buttons. Turning a key would be so much more satisfying, though.

I feel like you have to press them pretty hard for such a little click. Feels like it will damage the little circuit board underneath.

Has always been like this, both buttons, since new. Not a “malfunction” per se; as it does work.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Gclark949]

OP, do you know you can use your mechanical key in the back, twist and hold to open or close the window? Don’t need buttons.

 

[JoeBand]

i have a 16 TEP, and no buttons, just the key and a hole in the tail hatch.

 

[RobS10]

Not sure when Push to start came out, but am assuming all vehicles with it have the buttons for the rear window. They also act as a door Lock/Unlock, which is nice.
Our "new" vehicle is a '99 4Runner SR5, so only experience with a Push-to-Start, keyless system is in rental trucks. We are a little mixed on whether or not we like it. Nice things is no dangling keys to scratch the steering column or dash, not having to dig keys out or find the right button in a pocket to lock and unlock. Downside is no more Auto Down on the fob for the rear hatch window, and the "disconnect" my brain is experiencing in not physically operating the fob to lock/unlock doors or the key in the ignition. These are all long term Muscle Memory mental things that are hard to unlearn. I have found myself sitting in our new ORP and hitting the Start button and being dumbfounded that it doesn't start, until I remember the fob isn't in my pocket. That never happened with our '99!

The Arrow buttons on the hatch are a little stiff, but figure that's because of the thickness of the waterproof membrane, and perhaps the slight delay in the keyless signal allowing them to function that isn't instant so you think you need to press it harder?

 

[Pavement Tested]

OP, do you know you can use your mechanical key in the back, twist and hold to open or close the window? Don’t need buttons.

WHAT?!?!?! Are you serious?! No, I did not know that but will be testing that out when I get home today. Thanks for that info!

EDIT: Confirmed! Work great! The wife will be very happy about this. She is not a fan of opening the lift gate. Says it's too heavy although the struts work just fine. Thanks for the info [MENTION=135588]Gclark949[/MENTION], you saved me a bunch of money for sure!

 

[Gclark949]

Awesome. Glad I mentioned it.