What is a Tailgate Lock Cylinder?
A tailgate lock cylinder is usually located in the tailgate latch handle assembly. It is used to lock or unlock the tailgate on a truck manually with a key. It may also be integrated into the vehicle's central locking system. Often the lock cylinder will have a sensor attached as part of the Anti Theft system to read the key, ensuring it is being unlocked by the proper key.
How do Tailgate Lock Cylinders work?
The tailgate lock cylinder is "coded" to the vehicle's key and it turns when the key is inserted and rotated, just like any other lock. But inside the tailgate, the lock cylinder moves a lever to enable or disable the latch handle. When the tailgate is locked, the handle is disconnected from the latch linkage. When it is unlocked, the latch handle engages the linkage and allows the tailgate to be opened. On some trucks, the lock cylinder also actuates the rest of the locks in the central locking system through the Body Control Module.
What are the symptoms of a bad Tailgate Lock Cylinder?
Most often, the symptom of a faulty tailgate lock cylinder is that the key will not turn or will not even insert into the hole at all. Sometimes the key gets stuck in one position or another, or it is difficult to remove. Occasionally a key is broken off inside the lock cylinder and cannot be removed. Electrical problems with the locking system are likely caused by the failure of other components.
Can I drive with a bad Tailgate Lock Cylinder?
A bad tailgate lock cylinder is less of a concern for driving and more of an inconvenience, especially if the tailgate is locked shut. A truck can still be driven with a bad lock cylinder. How soon the problem should be corrected is more of a personal concern and need for a tailgate lock. However, if the tailgate lock is connected to the central locking system - if it is activated with a remote key fob - symptoms of a bad lock cylinder could be related to other components, such as a faulty actuator or latch. Because components in the locking system are interrelated, a problem with one lock could affect the other locks.