How to remove tailgate on Toyota Tundra

Toyota Tundra is equipped with detachable tailgate which can be removed with a few simple steps.

Important Note: This method is for Toyota Tundra without navigation system which does not have rear view camera. In the models with navigation system, you must first unplug the rear view camera cable before removing the tailgate, the method is mentioned at the end of tutorial.

1. Open the tailgate to the angle where you can release the brackets on the support cables from the lugs on both sides.
2. To release the support cable bracket simply lift it up and slide it off.
3. Tilt the tailgate to a thirty degree (30°) angle and pull up on the right side to unhook the right side.
4. Slide the tailgate a little to the right to unlock the left side.
5. To reattach the tailgate just repeat these steps in the reverse order.

Removing tailgate with rear-view camera

If your Toyota Tundra truck has rear view camera then the method is a little different. To remove the tailgate, you must first disconnect the wire harnesses between the rear-view camera and the vehicle. Connector covers are provided to protect the wire harnesses from becoming contaminated. When not in use, store these covers in the plastic storage bag located in your vehicle’s glove box. The connectors are located on the vehicle body frame behind the bumper. The white connector is the for the rear-view camera system. The gray connector is for the vehicle wire harness.

1. To disconnect the wire harness connectors, press and hold the lock on the white connector and pull the connectors apart.
2. Next, attach the white connector cover to the gray connector.
3. Lower the tailgate and remove the plastic wire protector located in the vehicle bed by pressing the tabs and pulling the plastic wire protector toward you.
4. Pull the rear-view camera wire harness through the hole.
5. Attach the gray connector cover to the white connector.
6. You are now ready to remove the tailgate.
7. Lift the tailgate to the angle where you can release the brackets on the support cables from the lugs on both sides.
8. To release the support cable bracket, simply lift it up and slide it off.
9. Tilt the tailgate to a 30 degree angle and pull up on the right side to unhook the right side.
10. Slide the tailgate a little to the right to unlock the left side.
11. To reattach the tailgate, just repeat these steps in the reverse order and then test the rear-view camera to make sure it is working properly.