Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Tailgate Latch: Removal
2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2020 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
LH shown, RH similar.
- Open the tailgate.
- Remove the tailgate bolts and discard upper tailgate bolt.
Torque: 18 lb.ft (25 Nm)
- If equipped, remove the bedliner tailgate cover.
Torque: 28 lb.in (3.2 Nm)
- Remove the tailgate access panel bolts and the tailgate access panel.
Torque: 28 lb.in (3.2 Nm)
- Remove the tailgate latch.
- Disconnect the tailgate latch actuating rod from the tailgate latch control assembly.
- Position the latch assembly toward the tailgate latch control assembly.
- Remove the tailgate latch.
-
NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.
Remove the tailgate latch actuating rod.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.