Caution: It is extremely dangerous to ride on the tailgate, even when the vehicle is operated at low speeds. People riding on the tailgate can easily lose their balance and fall in response to vehicle maneuvers. Falling from a moving vehicle may result in serious injuries or death. Do not allow people to ride on the tailgate. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.
On vehicles with a lock on the tailgate, use the key to lock or unlock the tailgate.
Open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling the tailgate toward you.
To shut the tailgate, firmly push it upward until it latches.
After you put the tailgate back up, pull it back towards you to be sure it latches securely.
Tailgate Removal
The tailgate can be removed to allow for different loading situations. Although the tailgate can be removed without assistance, you may want someone to assist you with the removal to avoid possible damage to the vehicle.
On vehicles with a rear vision camera, it must be disconnected before removing the tailgate.
To remove the tailgate, do the following:
- Raise the tailgate slightly and release both retaining cable clips. To release the retaining cable clips, lift the cable so it points straight out. Lift the clip over the bolt, and push the cable forward then rotate down.
- With the tailgate about halfway open, lift the right edge of the tailgate from the lower pivot.
- Move the tailgate to the right to release the left edge.
On vehicles with the tailgate assist feature, raise the tailgate nearly all the way to the closed position prior to removing the left edge.
Reverse this procedure to reinstall the tailgate. Make sure the tailgate is secure.
