Pinpoint Test C: Tailgate Step Hard To Open Or Close
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Normal Operation and Fault Conditions
REFER to: Pickup Bed .
Possible Sources
- Tailgate step release button
- Tailgate step latch striker
- Tailgate step installation
- C1 CHECK TAILGATE STEP OPERATION USING THE RELEASE BUTTON
- Lower the tailgate.
- Check the normal operation of tailgate step using the release button.
Is the tailgate step release upon pressing the release button?
Yes GO to C2 No GO to C4 - C2 CHECK THE TAILGATE STEP OPERATION
- Cycle the tailgate step fully open and closed several time in its horizontal position without dropping the step to its final position ensuring the tailgate step fully latches in the closed position for each cycle.
Is the tailgate step bind during opening or closing?
Yes GO to C3 No REFER to the Symptom Chart(s) . - C3 CHECK TAILGATE STEP INSTALLATION
- Verify the tailgate step installation.
- Check alignment and installation of the tailgate step. REFER to: Tailgate Step Adjustment .
- Operate the tailgate step and determine if the concern is still present.
Is the concern still present?
Yes REPLACE the tailgate step. REFER to: Tailgate Step . No The system is operating correctly at this time. REFER to the Symptom Chart(s) . - C4 CHECK TAILGATE STEP LATCH AND STRIKER INSTALLATION
- Check for damaged, loose or broken components.
- Verify the tailgate step latch and striker installation. REFER to: Tailgate Step Adjustment .
Is the concern still present?
Yes REPAIR as necessary No The system is operating correctly at this time. Refer to the Symptom Chart(s) .