HELP!! Tailgate will not latch closed!

[01GMC4.8]

Last night I went to load several full gas cans at the local gas station into the bed and the tailgate (2001 Sierra) would not lock and latch. After more than a dozen attempts, including oiling the latch springs the tailgate finally closed. I had the same problem when I got home.

 

Has anybody else had this problem? Is this a dealer fix?

 

Thanks in advance for any help!

[SteveCZ]

Funny you should mention this.... just brought my 99 Silverado in for the same thing.....

 

 

Among other things...

 

Turns out the actual handle mechanism was screwed up... they replaced it under my major guard warranty. If you are still under warranty, you should be all set.... I guess it was a known problem with the 99's, dunno if they changed anything in your model year or not...

 

I would say, if your warranty is still in effect, I would call up the dealer

 

SteveCZ

[01GMC4.8]

Thanks SteveCZ!

 

Do you know what part failed, or was it the entire latch mechanism?

[01GMC4.8]

Thanks SteveCZ!

 

Do you know what part failed, or was it the entire latch mechanism?