2001-2006 Toyota Tundra Tailgate Replacement (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006)

Introduction

If the tailgate on your 1st Generation (2001-2006) Toyota Tundra is damaged or stuck, use this guide to replace your tailgate. Typically, this replacement is performed with the tailgate handle, but this guide shows how to replace the tailgate without using the handle.

Having a working tailgate allows the user to transport a variety of goods in their truck. The tailgate can be closed to transport smaller materials or opened to allow large items to partially hang off of the truck. Having a malfunctioning tailgate severely limits what the truck can transport.

Whether the tailgate is stuck in an open or closed position, this guide will teach you how to replace it. After following this guide, you should be able to use your truck bed to its fullest capacity. No specialized tools or skills are required beyond the ability to use a screwdriver.

Before performing this repair, make sure to wear long sleeves and have a pair of gloves ready. The top of the tailgate and rim of the truck bed are made from fiberglass, which deteriorates with age. This may cause splinters or other skin irritation if handled without protection.

Note that newer models may include a backup camera on the tailgate. Before performing the repair, ensure that no additional cables run between the truck and tailgate.

What you need

Step 1 Tailgate

2001-2006 Toyota Tundra Tailgate Replacement, Tailgate: step 1, image 1 of 3

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Use a Torx T30 screwdriver to remove the eight 27.0 mm screws on the inside of the tailgate securing the bed-liner panel to the tailgate.

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Step 2

With the screws removed, lift and remove the bed-liner panel on the inside of the tailgate.
Do not touch the top of the tailgate. It's made from fiberglass that could cause splinters due to age or deterioration.

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Step 3

2001-2006 Toyota Tundra Tailgate Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Remove the metal panel beneath the bed-liner panel.
The metal panel uses the same screws as the bed-liner panel and can be removed at the same time.

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Step 4

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Grasp the cables and push inwards with both hands until the tailgate is released from the truck bed.

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Step 5

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Open the tailgate until it is flat or parallel with the ground.

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Step 6

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Remove the cables that connect the tailgate to the truck bed by prying the metal tab towards you using the flat head bit on the screwdriver.
Pry the tab up until the cable can be removed from the tailgate cable bolt.
The tailgate may need to be lifted up slightly to remove the cable from the tailgate cable bolt.
Repeat for both sides of the tailgate.