Electric Tailgate Not Working? Troubleshooting Power Liftgates

The Convenience (and Frustration) of Power Liftgates

An electric tailgate (or power liftgate) is one of the most beloved modern car features. But when an electric tailgate is not working, it can leave you stranded with groceries or unable to access your cargo. Here are the top culprits.

1. Failed Electric Spindle Actuators

Unlike standard gas struts, electric tailgates use motorized spindle actuators (struts with internal electric motors and worm gears). Over time, the internal gears can strip, or the motor can burn out. If you hear a grinding noise but no movement, the actuator needs replacing.

2. Weak Standard Gas Struts

Many systems use one electric actuator on the left and one standard gas strut on the right. If the standard gas strut loses its pressure, the single electric motor isn't strong enough to lift the heavy door on its own. Replacing the cheap gas strut often fixes the 'broken' electric system!

3. Obstacle Detection Sensors (Pinch Sensors)

Power tailgates have anti-pinch sensors along the edges. If these rubber strips are damaged, pinched, or wet, the system will think an object is blocking the door and will immediately reverse and open back up when you try to close it.

4. Low Battery Voltage

Power liftgate motors draw a massive amount of current. If your car battery is old and weak, the vehicle's computer may disable the power tailgate feature to conserve energy for starting the engine.

5. Out of Sync Modules

Sometimes the computer just gets confused. Try a manual reset: manually close the tailgate until it latches, then press and hold the close button on the tailgate for 10 seconds until you hear a beep. This often recalibrates the system.