Tailgate Latch Control Assembly: Removal

2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2018 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

All vehicles 

  1. Open the tailgate.
    GFD206894Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  2. If equipped. Remove the bedliner tailgate cover.

    Torque: 28 lb.in (3.2 Nm)

    GFD206895Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  3. Remove the tailgate access cover.

    Torque: 28 lb.in (3.2 Nm)

    GFD206896Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    Vehicles without mechanical tailgate handle 

  4. Disconnect the tailgate latch actuating rods.
    GFD206897Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  5. Remove the tailgate latch control assembly.

    1. Remove the tailgate latch control assembly nuts.

      Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

    2. Disconnect the tailgate latch actuator electrical connector.
    3. Detach the tailgate latch actuator harness routing clip.
    4. Remove the tailgate latch control assembly.

    GFD206898Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  6. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

    Remove the tailgate latch actuator.

    GFD206899Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    Vehicles with mechanical tailgate handle 

  7. NOTE: Complete manual tailgate latch shown, others similar.

    Disconnect the tailgate latch actuating rods.

    1. Disconnect the left tailgate latch actuating rod.
    2. Disconnect the right tailgate latch actuating rod.
    3. Disconnect the tailgate handle to control assembly actuating rod.
    4. If equipped. Disconnect the tailgate lock to control assembly actuating rod.

    GFD206900Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  8. If equipped. Disconnect the tailgate lock actuator electrical connector.

    Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

    GFD206901Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  9. Remove the nuts and the tailgate latch control assembly.

    Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

GFD206902Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
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.