[Tuner]

This has happened a few times, once a toolbox slid out going around a corner...another time while towing a fifthwheel. I am aware there was a recall on '17-19s on 12/6/19 but have heard the fix doesn't necessarily correct the issue. Anyone with any experience here? Input appreciated.

 

[ford_doctor]

There is a recall for that concern. 19S48... but you already know that. I would think any rumors of the recall not being effective would be caused by the recall not being properly performed. This would be rare in my opinion. If it was my truck I would have the recall completed and see if the concern has been corrected.

 

[Tuner]

Thank you for the reply, it is appreciated. I originally figured I was somehow pressing the remote opening button on the key. Last trip pulling the fifth wheel, the key was in the console unmolested and the tailgate still opened. I was very lucky not to have damaged the tailgate or the trailer.
So taking your advice, I called my dealer. Seems diesel appts are only about three weeks out now According to the dealer, my VIN does not show as being eligible for this recall. The lady said she would have the SM call me but based on my previous issue, I am not holding out hope.
I have removed the connections at the rear of the truck and filled them with dielectric hoping to overcome any water intrusion issues there. Next step is to remove the tailgate cover and take a look for any potential water issues inside. My understanding is the recall made repairs to the wiring around the electronic latch component. Not sure what to expect. I also believe there is a setting in software that will disable the remote opening and I really have no need for it.
I guess another option is removing the electronic opening and replacing it with a manual latch. Will report back, anyone with experience please chime in!

 

[ford_doctor]

The recall has us isolate the two tailgate latch actuator circuits from the harness connector at the left rear frame rail and install new connectors and replace the tailgate release switch in tailgate. I have on occasion found water intrusion and corrosion - in the rear camera coax cable connector too.

 

[Tuner]

Thanks...did some more reading and found the tailgate release switch is commonly and inadvertently pressed when releasing the E brake. Since I am not part of the recall, I am going to bet I have done this without knowing. I understand the usefulness of the switch but question the placement I may try to relocate or disable to make sure I am not the cause of the issue. I appreciate your help!

 

[Stroking it]

This would be a problem if there was a button on keyfob to open tailgate. How many times have you set off the alarm in your truck with the key in your pocket. It has happened to me more than once; I also could roll down the windose in my truck with the fob. One day I went out and my windows were down. I disabled that the same day.

 

[Greg03PSD]

This would be a problem if there was a button on keyfob to open tailgate. How many times have you set off the alarm in your truck with the key in your pocket. It has happened to me more than once; I also could roll down the windose in my truck with the fob. One day I went out and my windows were down. I disabled that the same day.

You must have a different key fob (or it is a pre-2020 thing). My key fob has a button to open the tailgate right under the remote start button, but you have to press it twice so even then it's probably unlikely to accidentally open the tailgate unless you hit it just right with the keys in your pocket. I, too, have set my alarm off many times when I have bent over to pick something up.

 

[Tuner]

Same keyfob as above....and I have set the alarm off with the fob in my pocket as well. Tailgate opened this morning while driving, key in the console and no parking brake involved. Since Ford says I do not have an issue that they will warranty, I am going to look in to disabling the function. I really like the remote lock ability so I hope that is not impacted.

 

[lincster]

One thing I learned was that if I am hooked up to my 5th wheel and plugged in, if I put the truck in reverse immediately after getting in, before the doors have time to autolock, my tailgate comes down.
Same condition but I manually lock the doors and then put it in reverse, tailgate stays up.
Might be nothing, might be something.

I know that you have to have the doors unlocked or the tailgate won't come down when you hit the button, even when I am backing up to my 5th wheel.

 

[Tuner]

I've looked thru Forscan for a way to disable the tailgate release and not found anything promising. I am guessing you could disconnect the button above the parking brake but I just decided to be more careful and keep an eye on it when towing, especially before backing up.