Pickup trucks are often bought for their ruggedness, utility, and long-term dependability. One of the most used and arguably most abused parts of any pickup truck is the tailgate. Whether you’re hauling lumber, furniture, equipment, or just tossing in bags of groceries, the tailgate is constantly opened, closed, sat on, stepped on, and even driven with lowered for larger loads.
It gets more action than nearly any other panel on the truck. Despite its importance, not every tailgate is built with the same level of durability, materials, or engineering integrity. Some manufacturers prioritize toughness and reliability, while others focus more on design or added tech features that sometimes come at the cost of long-term reliability.
A solid tailgate should handle years of weight, impacts, and rough use without giving up. But in some pickups, you start seeing issues like latch malfunctions, sensor failures, dent-prone materials, or even warping in less than a year. With more trucks introducing power tailgates, multi-function tailgates, or complex motorized systems, reliability can sometimes take a hit.
This article will examine five pickup trucks with tailgates known to last a long time, often outlasting the rest of the truck. These are the ones that continue to function properly even after years of heavy use and exposure to the elements.
On the other hand, we’ll also look at five trucks that tend to have problematic tailgates, particularly within the first year of ownership. These may include models with overly complicated electronics, poor latch designs, weak materials, or other engineering flaws that cause users’ frustration shortly after driving off the lot.
While the rest of the truck might hold up reasonably well, the tailgate turns out to be a weak point that leads to early wear and repairs. Let’s take a closer look at which trucks have tailgates that stand the test of time and which ones tend to become a problem before you even get through your first full year of use.
5 Pickup Trucks with Tailgates That Last for Years
1. Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra has long held a reputation for being one of the most reliable full-size trucks on the road, and that extends to its tailgate as well. Designed with simplicity and toughness in mind, the Tundra’s tailgate doesn’t try to get too fancy. It uses strong hinges, a reliable latch system, and durable materials that resist denting and corrosion. It isn’t overloaded with tech that could break down, which is exactly why it tends to hold up better than more complex setups.
Owners often report using their Tundra tailgates for all sorts of heavy-duty work, including loading gravel, equipment, and large furniture.
Even with regular impacts and the occasional slam, the tailgate continues to close tightly and operate without any sticking or latch issues. It has the kind of build quality you would expect from a truck that’s built for long-term use and serious labor. This isn’t the kind of tailgate that starts creaking after a year or needs frequent lubrication just to open and shut properly.
Another factor in its longevity is how Toyota has chosen to keep things mechanical where it counts. Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel with electric motors or fancy folding designs, the Tundra’s tailgate sticks to the basics.
That makes it much easier to maintain over time. Even in older models, it’s not uncommon to find tailgates still functioning perfectly well with only minimal signs of wear. The hardware is replaceable and widely available, further supporting the truck’s long-term dependability.
Weather resistance also plays a big role here. The seals and internal components are protected from rust and corrosion much better than on some rivals. Whether you’re dealing with snow, heavy rain, or desert conditions, the tailgate tends to hold its shape and functionality. When you’re buying a truck with the idea of keeping it for 10 or 15 years, details like this become much more important than extra tech features or fancy tailgate configurations.
2. Ford F-150 (Traditional Tailgate Models)
The Ford F-150 is America’s best-selling truck for a reason, and one of those reasons is how well-built the traditional versions are, especially the tailgate. Over the decades, Ford has developed a tough and straightforward tailgate that lasts.
This isn’t about the newer multi-function tailgate versions or the ones with fancy powered features, but rather the standard versions that use old-school design with steel strength and mechanical dependability.
Owners across the country continue to praise how the F-150 tailgate handles years of loading, sitting, standing, and banging without showing significant issues. Even after hauling everything from construction debris to heavy farm tools, the tailgate continues to swing smoothly and latch securely. The hinges are thick, the support cables rarely fail, and the latch system doesn’t give out prematurely like it can in some lighter-built pickups.
Ford has done a good job of reinforcing the inner panel design as well. Even when subjected to heavy impact or weight from people standing on it regularly, it doesn’t tend to warp or bend.
That’s something you can’t say about every pickup, especially ones that use more aluminum or composite materials in their construction. The steel-bodied F-150 tailgates, especially those built in the early to mid-2010s, are still functioning today without a hitch.
Maintenance is also straightforward. A little lubrication and maybe some attention to surface rust in older models is usually all that’s needed to keep it working like new.
Because Ford has produced so many of these trucks, replacement parts are easy to find and relatively cheap. If you ever do need to replace a latch or cable, it won’t be an expensive or difficult job. This simplicity in design and focus on durability is why these tailgates often last as long as the truck itself.
3. Ram 2500 Heavy Duty
Ram’s 2500 line is built for serious work, and the tailgate is no exception. It’s designed to withstand the kind of heavy-duty use that comes from people in construction, farming, and towing professions. The tailgate on these trucks is one of the most durable parts of the entire vehicle, and owners often point out how it continues to function like new even when other parts of the truck begin to show signs of wear.
The construction of the tailgate uses reinforced materials and a solid hinge design. There’s no sense of flimsiness or cheap parts when you drop the tailgate and it lands with a thud that suggests strength.
Unlike some lightweight or tech-heavy trucks, Ram keeps things mechanical and straightforward with this tailgate, which helps in long-term reliability. Even the internal components, such as the latch mechanisms, are built to be serviceable and robust, avoiding early wear and tear.
The 2500’s tailgate can handle being loaded and stepped on repeatedly without sagging or showing structural problems. Whether you’re moving heavy gear or stacking supplies, the tailgate provides consistent performance.
In areas with harsh climates, where other trucks start showing tailgate alignment issues or rust, the Ram 2500 still holds up thanks to extra protection measures in place. It’s not unusual to see these trucks in rural settings with tailgates that are over a decade old and still function without complaint.
What really sets the 2500’s tailgate apart is its resistance to deformation under pressure. You can throw hay bales at it, let it slam shut in a windy field, or stand on it every day for years, and it won’t fall apart. The truck is built for people who don’t want to think twice about whether a tailgate will give out after heavy use. It’s a design meant to last as long as the frame and the drivetrain.
4. Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
Chevrolet’s heavy-duty Silverado 2500 models are some of the toughest trucks on the market, and their tailgates reflect that same focus on strength and endurance.
While Chevrolet has been experimenting with new tailgate designs recently, the traditional single-panel tailgates found on earlier and standard HD models are known for lasting nearly forever. They use high-strength steel, robust hinge designs, and an uncomplicated latch system that resists failure over time.
A big reason these tailgates last so long is that they are built with commercial users in mind. These trucks are used by contractors, landscapers, ranchers, and fleet operators who don’t have time to deal with small mechanical failures.
That means every part of the truck, especially the parts like the tailgate that get constant use, needs to be overbuilt rather than just sufficient. Silverado 2500 tailgates are exactly that: overbuilt in the best possible way.
These tailgates aren’t just sturdy, they’re consistent. The hinge lines don’t sag over time. The cables don’t fray prematurely. The latch stays smooth year after year. And even in harsh working conditions like mud, ice, or dusty construction zones, the tailgate doesn’t bind or misalign. Drivers often report that their Silverado 2500 tailgates keep functioning just fine after a decade of daily use, including hauling bricks, gravel, and machinery.
Another bonus with this truck is the relatively low cost and ease of repair if you ever do need to replace a component. Chevrolet parts are widely available, and the design doesn’t require complex disassembly to access the latch or hinge system.
This makes it a good choice for people who rely on their vehicles every day and can’t afford extended downtime for something as routine as a tailgate issue. Compared to more complicated multi-function designs that are difficult or expensive to repair, this straightforward tailgate gives you years of dependable use with minimal need for service.
From a materials standpoint, Chevrolet didn’t cut corners on these heavy-duty models. The tailgate skin is thick and resists denting, even when subjected to repeated abuse from shifting cargo. The internal bracing and support beams prevent warping, and the latching system remains tight even when under stress.
This contributes not only to a consistent open-and-close experience but also to the feel of structural integrity when the tailgate is in the lowered position and bearing weight. It’s common for users to treat it like a workbench or temporary platform, and the tailgate handles it without flexing.
Environmental exposure can be a real test of durability, and the Silverado 2500 HD passes this test better than most. Whether the truck is operating in salty coastal areas, snowy mountain towns, or the dusty back roads of the Midwest, the tailgate continues to function reliably.
Protective coatings on internal parts, along with a rugged exterior paint job, ensure that rust and corrosion take much longer to become a factor. Fleet operators have reported using the same tailgate mechanisms across hundreds of vehicles with almost no failure rate for years.
It’s the combination of all these elements, rugged construction, mechanical simplicity, ease of repair, and weather resistance, that makes the Silverado 2500 HD’s tailgate one of the most long-lasting in the business. It’s not flashy, it’s not full of new gadgets, and it doesn’t need to be. It serves the working class and heavy users with the kind of reliability that many modern trucks no longer provide in the name of innovation.
5. Nissan Frontier (Previous Generation)
The older generation of the Nissan Frontier, especially models produced before the 2022 redesign, is often overlooked in truck comparisons. However, when it comes to tailgate durability, these models offer a refreshing example of simplicity and toughness. The tailgate mechanism used in these trucks is basic in the best way possible. There are no motors, sensors, or soft-close features that can fail. Instead, you get a traditional drop-down gate with a sturdy latch and hinge system that just keeps working, year after year.
Many Frontier owners appreciate how the truck has resisted the temptation to become overly modern in its functionality, especially in previous models. While this might make the interior feel outdated to some, it’s an asset when it comes to maintenance and long-term reliability.
The tailgate in particular is built with a solid steel frame and uses very few plastic components. That makes it perfect for users who need something dependable, especially for loading materials or working in rural environments where toughness is more valuable than flash.
Real-world usage shows how effective this design choice has been. Even on older models with high mileage and visible wear, the tailgate usually opens, closes, and locks without issue.
It’s not unusual to find a decade-old Frontier with a perfectly functioning tailgate despite never having had any service work done to it. Whether you’re hauling dirt bikes, construction tools, or just camping gear, the tailgate keeps its alignment and doesn’t require constant adjustments or replacement of parts.
The durability of the Frontier’s tailgate is further helped by the fact that the truck as a whole was built to be a bit over-engineered for its size. It shares some chassis components with older Titan models, which adds to the feeling of toughness throughout.
The tailgate benefits from this same philosophy, built not just to meet the minimum standard but to exceed it quietly, without fanfare. For users who don’t need a full-size truck but still want long-term toughness, the Frontier’s tailgate is one of the best in its class.
5 Pickup Trucks with Tailgates That Tend to Break Within a Year
1. GMC Sierra 1500 with MultiPro Tailgate
The MultiPro tailgate introduced on the GMC Sierra 1500 was marketed as a revolutionary upgrade, offering multiple configurations for access, load stop, step functionality, and workbench use. While this innovation certainly brought new convenience and versatility, it also introduced a whole range of reliability concerns.
Many owners have experienced issues with this system within the first year of use. The complex folding mechanism involves additional hinges, cables, and buttons, any of which can malfunction or wear out prematurely with frequent use.
One of the most commonly reported problems involves the inner gate failing to latch correctly or opening unexpectedly. This can be particularly frustrating when transporting cargo, as the gate may shift or disengage while the vehicle is in motion.
The electric release mechanisms have also been reported to fail, especially in colder climates or after exposure to rain and road salt. These issues can leave the tailgate either stuck shut or unable to close fully, both of which reduce the utility of the truck and potentially lead to more expensive repairs.
The materials used in the MultiPro tailgate also contribute to its lack of long-term durability. While the main panel is still fairly sturdy, the inner fold-down section is more vulnerable to damage.
Users have reported dents, cracked corners, and problems with the alignment of the folding parts. Because there are so many moving sections, the tailgate is more prone to rattling and developing loose spots over time. Unlike traditional tailgates, which are usually supported by just two cables, this one has more points of failure.
Servicing the MultiPro tailgate is not straightforward. Even basic repairs can require disassembling multiple panels and ordering specialized components that aren’t as readily available as those for standard designs.
Dealership service costs tend to be higher for this kind of work, and not all repair shops are familiar with the tailgate’s layout. While the MultiPro system seems like a great idea on paper and does offer real convenience, the reliability concerns and early failure reports make it one of the more frustrating tailgate designs in current trucks.
2. Ford F-150 with Power Tailgate Release
The Ford F-150, especially in higher trims, now includes a power tailgate release system that allows users to open and close the tailgate with the push of a button. While convenient, this system has introduced some issues, especially in early model years, where the power system was first rolled out.
Many users have reported problems with the tailgate failing to open or close as expected. In some cases, the electronic actuator fails within the first year, requiring a trip to the dealer for diagnosis and replacement.
The core issue with the power tailgate is that it adds complexity without necessarily improving durability. Mechanical latches, which typically last for many years, are replaced or supplemented with electronic parts that are more sensitive to weather, dirt, and wear.
This is especially problematic in regions with significant temperature swings, where freezing or wet conditions can cause the actuator or sensors to fail temporarily or permanently. While manual tailgates are usually fixable with basic tools, the power tailgate often needs electronic diagnostics, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Another concern is that the tailgate does not always close securely if the electronics are slightly out of sync or if there’s an obstruction. In some cases, users have reported that the tailgate appeared to be shut but later opened while driving, causing cargo to fall out.
This undermines the purpose of owning a truck in the first place. It also puts pressure on the tailgate’s hinges and latching system, increasing wear and potentially shortening the tailgate’s usable life. What starts as a minor annoyance can turn into a safety risk if not addressed quickly.
The replacement costs for the power tailgate components are also significantly higher than for traditional systems. Actuators, control modules, and sensor wiring aren’t always covered under basic warranties, especially if they’re damaged due to misuse or environmental conditions.
For people who bought the F-150 expecting it to be a long-term workhorse, the power tailgate adds a layer of fragility that contradicts the rugged image the truck is known for. It’s a classic example of how added convenience can sometimes come at the cost of core reliability.
3. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline takes a different approach to truck design. Built on a unibody platform instead of a traditional body-on-frame setup, it offers a smoother ride and car-like handling.
While the tailgate in the Ridgeline is innovative, it can swing open sideways or drop down like a traditional tailgate, this same feature has proven to be a point of failure for many owners. The dual-action mechanism, although convenient in theory, has shown reliability problems in real-world use, particularly within the first year for some.
Owners have reported that the tailgate often becomes misaligned or fails to latch correctly over time. Because the hinge mechanism for the swing feature involves more moving parts than a traditional drop-down gate, wear and tear occur more quickly.
The locking and latching system, especially when exposed to heavy use or rough cargo, tends to loosen. Some Ridgeline owners have noted that the swing function becomes hard to engage properly, requiring excessive force or careful alignment just to get the tailgate to close completely.
Environmental conditions also seem to affect the Ridgeline’s tailgate more than they should. In dusty, wet, or snowy areas, the hinge and latch can become sticky or jammed. The internal handle that triggers the swing-out motion has been known to get stuck or break altogether under repeated use.
Honda’s attempts to combine two functions into one tailgate have unintentionally added a degree of fragility not commonly seen in more traditional tailgate designs. This can be especially frustrating for users who expect truck features to handle rough usage without issue.
Another downside is that repairing or replacing the dual-action mechanism isn’t cheap. The tailgate isn’t just a single panel; it’s part of an integrated system that includes unique hinges, latches, and locks. Because it’s not as common a design as what’s used on other pickups, parts availability is limited, and repair shops may charge a premium for labor.
While the Ridgeline has many strengths as a light-duty, lifestyle-oriented truck, the tailgate does not live up to the expectations of ruggedness and durability for users who rely on it frequently.
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with Power Tailgate
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, especially in its newer trims equipped with the power-up/down tailgate feature, has received mixed reviews from long-term owners.
While the motorized feature may seem like a step forward in convenience, it introduces issues that many traditional truck owners find frustrating. Reports of the tailgate failing to close fully or malfunctioning after just months of use are common among early adopters of this system. Unfortunately, what was intended to enhance ease of use often turns into a reliability headache.
One common issue is that the motor used to raise and lower the tailgate can become unresponsive. Whether due to wiring faults, moisture ingress, or mechanical fatigue, the system can stop functioning without warning.
In these situations, users are left with a tailgate that either won’t open or won’t close, which eliminates the utility of the bed. This is particularly problematic when cargo is already loaded and the tailgate gets stuck in the open position. The manual override doesn’t always work seamlessly, leading to even greater frustration.
Additionally, the sensor system that monitors for obstructions can be overly sensitive or glitchy. Owners have reported that the tailgate won’t close if the system mistakenly detects an obstruction, even when there’s nothing in the way.
This kind of issue tends to emerge early in ownership and may not be consistently reproducible, making it difficult for service departments to diagnose and resolve. This inconsistency adds to user dissatisfaction and erodes confidence in what should be a basic truck function.
The durability of the components inside the power tailgate system is also a concern. Plastic gears, fragile wiring harnesses, and small motors are all more prone to failure than the heavy-duty mechanical parts used in traditional tailgates. These systems are not easy to access or repair without specialized tools or dealership-level support.
What used to be a quick job, fixing a hinge or replacing a cable, can now become a multi-day repair with high parts costs. All of this makes the power tailgate feature in the Silverado 1500 a frequent point of complaint for users expecting long-term, no-fuss durability.
5. Rivian R1T
The Rivian R1T is a bold, all-electric entry into the pickup truck market. It’s packed with cutting-edge features, including multiple storage options, off-road capability, and a clean, futuristic design. However, one area where it has drawn criticism is the tailgate.
Early adopters have reported a range of problems, from unresponsive electronic controls to alignment issues that show up after only a few months of ownership. In a vehicle that emphasizes innovation, the tailgate feels like an area where basic utility was sacrificed for styling and tech features.
The tailgate in the R1T is controlled electronically, meaning there’s no traditional handle. Instead, users rely on a button or the infotainment system to open it. This may sound convenient, but it has proven problematic for users who need quick, reliable access to the bed.
When the electronic system fails, or even just lags, the tailgate won’t open. In colder climates or during extended outdoor use, these failures become more common. The issue is compounded by the fact that there’s no mechanical backup to open the tailgate if the electronics stop working.
Further complaints include early misalignment and warping issues. Owners have shared stories of the tailgate starting to sag or not closing flush with the rest of the bed within a short period of use.
This affects the aesthetics of the vehicle, but also raises concerns about water intrusion and structural integrity. Some drivers report that the seals between the tailgate and the bed begin to fail, allowing rain or snow to get inside. For a truck that’s marketed as ready for both city streets and backcountry trails, this is a major flaw.
Because the R1T is a new and relatively rare vehicle, getting service for the tailgate can be difficult. Parts may not be readily available, and few independent shops are equipped to handle repairs on the unique electronics and components involved. Warranty coverage helps early on, but as the vehicle ages, these issues could become even more troublesome.
Despite the R1T’s impressive list of technological advances, the tailgate design proves that sometimes, simpler is better, especially when it comes to parts of the truck that see the most frequent physical use.
