How to Install a Tailgate Handle

The tailgate handle on a truck allows you to manually open and close the tailgate, letting you load cargo into the bed. If this tailgate handle breaks or stops working correctly, you won't be able to open the tailgate, causing the truck's bed to become less useful. To fix the issue, you can install a new tailgate handle, which takes less than 15 minutes to do with a few basic tools.

Instructions

1

Pull off the bezel around the tailgate handle with your hands. Look inside the tailgate, on the opposite side of the tailgate handle. Unbolt the stock tailgate handle from the tailgate with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.

2

Pull the old tailgate handle off the tailgate to show the latching mechanism inside the sheetmetal. Remove the clips holding the handle to the tailgate latching linkage with the needle-nose pliers. Pull the tailgate away from the truck.

3

Install the tailgate latching linkage to the replacement tailgate with the needle-nose pliers. Push the tailgate handle into the tailgate and bolt it in place with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Push the bezel back onto the tailgate to lock it in place.