Tailgate Release Handle: Removal

2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. 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.
  1. Open the tailgate.
    GFD562162Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    Vehicles with tailgate step 

  2. Push the tailgate step release button.
    GFD562163Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  3. Open the tailgate step.
    GFD562164Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    All vehicles 

  4. If equipped. Remove the bedliner tailgate cover.

    Torque

    : 22 lb.in (2.5 Nm)

    GFD562165Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  5. If equipped. Remove the tailgate access panel bolts and the tailgate access panel.

    Torque

    : 22 lb.in (2.5 Nm)

    GFD562147Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  6. If equipped. Remove the workspace tailgate access panel bolts and the workspace tailgate access panel.

    Torque

    : 71 lb.in (8 Nm)

    GFD562148Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  7. Remove the tailgate moulding. Refer to: Tailgate Moulding (501-08 Exterior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
  8. Remove the tailgate handle nuts.

    Torque

    : 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

    GFD562166Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    Vehicles with mechanical tailgate handle 

  9. Remove the tailgate release handle.

    1. Release the retaining clips and position the tailgate release handle from the tailgate.
    2. Disconnect the tailgate handle to tailgate control assembly rod.
    3. If equipped. Disconnect the tailgate lock cylinder rod.
    4. Release the wiring harness routing clip and disconnect the rear camera electrical connector.

    GFD562167Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  10. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

    Transfer components as necessary.

    1. If equipped. Remove the screw and the rear camera and bracket.
    2. If equipped. Remove the tailgate lock cylinder nut and the tailgate lock cylinder.

      Torque

      : 28 lb.in (3.2 Nm)

    GFD562168Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    Vehicles without mechanical tailgate handle 

  11. Remove the tailgate release handle.

    1. Release the retaining clips and position the tailgate release handle from the tailgate.
    2. Disconnect the tailgate release handle wiring harness routing clips.
    3. If equipped. Disconnect the keyless entry rear antenna electrical connector.
    4. If equipped. Disconnect the rear camera electrical connector.
    5. If equipped. Disconnect the tailgate release switch electrical connector.
    6. If equipped. Disconnect the tailgate light electrical connector.

    GFD562169Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  12. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

    Transfer components as necessary.

    1. If equipped. Remove the screw and the rear camera and bracket.
    2. If equipped. Remove the screw and the tailgate light.
    3. If equipped. Remove the screws and the keyless entry rear antenna.
    4. If equipped. Release the tailgate release switch retaining tabs.
    5. If equipped. Remove the tailgate release switch.

    GFD562170Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  13. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

    Transfer components as necessary.

    1. Remove the tailgate release handle pull cup screws.
    2. Remove the tailgate release handle pull cup.

GFD562171Courtesy 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.