my tailgate on my 2005 gmc z71 sierra won't open. anyone had this problem? the handle will open all the way up, and it sounds like the connections on both sides are sliding, but even with a few friendly kicks, it still doesn't open.

pop the plastic ring off, and inside you will see a rod on the right side with a 90 degree bend that slides into a vertical piece..........the plastic piece that holds them together probably popped off and you just push them back together with your hand and it'll open. Or at least it fixed my buddies 05 GMC 2500 just last weekend.

Clear as mud?

May just need to lubricate the joints and latches.

already tried lubricating everything... no workie... i will try holdpoint's recommendation

Some tailgates have an access cover on the inside of tailgate. Sounds like the rods became disconnected from pull handle. Relativally a easy fix.

Bingo, i have to buy a new handle on mine. Clips came lose and the rods not connected.

here's how to fix it!!

take the handle off the tailgate.....keep the handle and throw away the truck......then go buy a ford bub.

Then maybe the tailgate will work but you won't get real far!!!

Yep, sounds like the rods came loose inside.

thanks guys. the rod came loose, got it fixed in 5 mins. oh and bubray, didn't you call me the other day because you needed a ride home from the shop??? again!

I was going to suggest a sawzall.

Plastic piece has broken on 2 of mine (99 & 2005) Twice off the 99

Also broke off on my buddies 2002.

Just seems like a bad/cheap part.

Then you will more to worry about than a tailgate. I would rather have a tailgate that does not open than spark plugs that spit out of the head or break off. Tailgate latches on GMs sound like the cupholders on the early Supercrews. Just plain under engineered.

Now that you have it fixed you can pretty much keep this from happening again by doing one simple thing.

Push in on the tail gate when you lift the handle. It reduces stress on all the little plastic pieces, makes it last much longer

O'reilly carrys those little clips in a universal set, $3 for the pack. Just an FYI next time it happens to anyone.
I found out mine broke when the tailgate wouldn't open in front of Lowes when I was ready to load a new dishwasher.