Importance Of Auto Tailgate Handles

The most used part in every pickup truck is the tailgate handle and not just the tailgate since every time you need to access the bed you have to utilize the tailgate handle. So you can imagine how tattered the handles can get. The tailgate handle makes the external component of the tailgate latch assembly. It is attached to the outside panel of the tailgate and is responsible for triggering the mechanism that unlatches the door and allows it to swing open. A tailgate handle is typically made of either plastic or metal. In most cars, the handle sits inside a plastic bezel called tailgate handle cover which faces just as much abuse and replacing them would be a good idea as well.

The tailgate handle is found on the tailgate panel. It forms a part of the tailgate latching mechanism.

The tailgate handle can be categorised based on the actuation mechanism:

1. Manual Handle: This type of handle is pulled by the user and has no automated mechanism.
2. Automatic Handle: The latch is undone by an automated mechanism that requires no user intervention and can be done with the push of a button.
3. Combination Type: This consists of both technologies: Manual and Automated, for maximum convenience.

The importance of the tailgate handle can be easily overlooked until it fails and restricts access to the tailgate. The handle is used to open the tailgate but in reality, it does more than that. If the tailgate doesn’t open up properly you cannot fully access the tailgate or door. Trying to load goods with the tailgate closed can be very hard since it may hinder access to the bed. The tailgate handle is therefore a crucial part of the pickup truck.

The handle is operated on a daily basis which can wear out the handle and its mechanism. The handle is also faced with constant abuse from the elements that can deteriorate the handles. These parts get scuffed with dirt and dust and get pretty banged up over regular use and it is ideal to have them replaced with prolonged use. The latch mechanism is also prone to damage with rough use.

The handle shows these signs of failure indicating that its time for a replacement:

• The latch may malfunction preventing the opening of the door.
• The handle can get stuck in one position.
• Actuating the handle does not open the tailgate.
• In electronic tailgates, the door may not open upon pressing the button or switch.

Here are the tools you will require for the reinstallation of the Tailgate Handle:

• Screwdriver
• Gloves
• Plastic Scraper
• Ratchet
• Socket Set

If you know which car parts brand suits the best for your Tailgate Handles, then it would save a lot of your decision making time. What we believe is that picking a particular brand would always be helpful in reducing the clutter, and at the same time would make it easier for the customers to find what they are actually looking for. That’s why we have listed out some top brands for Tailgate Handles below as follows:-

To customize the look of your truck by adding a decorative yet protective layer to the body parts that are vulnerable to damage and enhance their appearance consider other such Chrome Trim parts:

• Car Door Handles
• Door Sill Protector
• Fuel Door
• Side-View Mirror Covers
• Vehicle Window Trim
• Car Emblem
• Headlight Bezel
• Tail Light Bezel
• Body Panel Trim
• Body Side Moulding

The tailgate handle is an essential part of the tailgate and it is what allows access to the bed and prevents the tailgate opening when not required. So make sure to always keep your handle in pristine condition by applying grease and opening and closing carefully. The handle can be swapped for a mere 25-150 $. The price depends on the materials used and their quality.

Here is a guide to replacing your tailgate handles:

• The first step is to remove the handle bezel.
• The bezel is secured to the tailgate via tabs which can be removed by taking a flat head screwdriver or a plastic scraper and unlatching the tabs from above the bezel.
• Once the tabs are removed the bezel shall come right off.
• The handle is attached to the tailgate with bolts that can be accessed from the front of the tailgate.
• Undo all the bolts and in case there is a bed liner, remove all bolts on the liner to reveal other hidden bolts to the handle.
• Once the bolts are undone, remove the latch cables or wires attached to the handle and the handle should slide right off.
• Insert the new handle and bolt it down. Refit the cables and finally grease the handle mechanism using a lubricant.
• To reinstall the handle bezel, simply latch the tabs in place and secure the bezel to the tailgate.