Anyone pass on or regret getting a power tailgate lock?

Hey folks,

Seems logical enough to want to have a power tailgate lock and the OEM lock seems to be the ticket. But..does anyone actually regret getting one or did anyone pass on it intentionally?

I am thinking there may be some times where you don't want the tailgate locked when the cab is locked, and there may be some times where you want the tailgate locked while the cab is unlocked.

Examples:

Cargo in the bed locked, dog in the cab unlocked, no alarm

Cab locked when running errands, but want the tailgate unlocked so you can access the bed easily without the key

Perhaps I am overthinking it...

 

I wish the tailgate had keyless unlock - either with a foot or hand motion. Sometimes it's annoying to dig out the keys. But I don't regret the lock - even with a soft topper it has successfully deterred thieves so far. Making it marginally harder to steal goes a long way. I've seen vehicles parked next to me with shells picked over, while my cheapy Tyger soft tonneau is untouched.

 

You can still lock/unlock the tailgate with the key inside the fob for these random situations.

I don't regret it at all. Was frustrated it didn't come standard.

 

I’m actually looking to make that purchase and install soon.

 

Passed on it just as I would have power door locks an windows if possible. Just more stuff to break.

True mechanical stuff can break but it’s easier and cheaper to fix.

 

Do the remote tailgate lock. It’s something I just couldn’t imagine not having. I have dogs, kids etc.

I’d pay for it again. And again.

 

It's basically a unanimous no brainier. Like a bed mat. Just get it!

 

I came from a 2012 Tundra without it so it's second nature to me to not have it. They gave me a physical key besides one in the FOB with the truck. If I change my mind though, I would go with the OEM one and connect it to the second FOB push or a completely separate button under dash or something. I don't like the idea of it unlocking when I unlock my door.

That said, I don't miss it at all since I'm used to not having it.

 

I had it on my F-350 and really enjoyed the convenience. It's one of those things you won't miss if you never had it, but also one that you will wonder how you lived without once you do.

If it is not a dent in your resources and you're considering a quality system, it really is a no-brainer. If you are in the position where it is this or that but not both. Your personal considerations may take precedents when considering what toy ranks where on your list of wants or priorities.

Not to hi-jack the thread but maybe add a little more value with replies. Who does make the best or highest quality kit for our trucks? I have been thinking more and more about this with all the tailgate theft you hear about these days.

 

My truck came with a tailgate key separate from the fob. I keep it on the same ring. I use the tailgate once a week at most and have no problem unlocking it with the key in 2 seconds. No idea why no one else here seems to have a separate tailgate key. No regrets here, I did get the lights and bedmat though.

 

Different gen truck but same deal, I got an aftermarket one from pop-n-lock a few months ago and love it. I should have done that years ago… (tacos should have it from factory)

2nd gens specifically, the pop-n-lock kit leaves a little to be desired. It bolts with only one screw, and is LOUD in the tailgate. I’ll see how long it lasts as far as durability, but the sound I can get over.
The kit for the newer Tundras and 3rd gen Tacoma’s is a lot nicer though. I installed one on my fathers Tundra and it’s mounting is a lot better, 2 bolts, and it’s a little quieter, just a tad louder than the door locks. No drilling or splicing for the wiring either vs the 2nd Tacoma kit as there is a wiring adapter provided. Think it was about $90 or so. Mine was more $ for a lesser product
I’d recommend the Tundra/3rd gen Tacoma pop-n-lock if you don’t go OEM though.

 

Regretted not getting it. Had dealer install a couple months later. Love it.

 

Part numbers for OEM 2nd gen???

 

No regrets having installed one on my ‘19.

 

My opinion is it makes no sense not to get it. I like the idea that I can lock my truck completely, and even if I have nothing in the bed, I know some jerk won’t be able to steal my tailgate.

The OEM kit is easy to install at home. I have no idea why it says it isn’t compatible with the bed light kit. I have the OEM bed light on my truck and the tailgate lock install was no issue.

 

Relatively cheap, plug and play install, and Uber functional upgrade! What's not to love? As many have said, it should come standard on these trucks.

 

It was close to the top of my mod list.

 

Alternate view:

I do think it's a great idea and I'm not sure why it isn't standard in all modern trucks, but then again a lot of trucks still don't have power sliding rear windows so it is what it is.

Anyway, I don't have it and don't really feel the need. I only lock it if I have my tonneau cover on and stuff in the bed and at that point I may as well get the key out anyway. I'll also lock it if I'm leaving it in a sketchy area or at the airport for an extended period of time.

For my uses it is very nice to open the tailgate without having to reach for the key fob or key and so I just leave it unlocked. There are other ways to prevent tailgate theft such as a hose clamp or a part which is sold by another member on here. Yes they could be removed with tools but if a thief is coming prepared with tools then they definitely have the means to do other things as well. If they want it bad enough they'll get it.

 

I had the OEM power lock on my list for a while but recently decided not to do it. I just don't care that much to spend $152 and then do the install. Using the key to lock the tailgate is not a big deal for me.

 

The only thing that drives me nuts is that the tailgate doesn't unlock with the doors when you park and exit the truck.
I can't tell you how many times I've gotten out of the truck, walked to the back, found the tailgate locked, walked back to the driver's door, and pushed the unlock button.

Maybe someone can post a way to change the wiring so it unlocks with the door locks.