2024+ Tacoma - Operating the Power Tailgate

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Your 4th Gen Tacoma's power tailgate is one of those features you'll wonder how you lived without. Motorized opening and closing from your key fob, interior switch, tail light buttons, or the tailgate handle itself. Whether you're loading groceries with full hands or dealing with a heavy toolbox, it's genuinely convenient.

(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 139-141, with insights from TacomaWorld and Tacoma4G communities)

Critical Safety Warnings​


Safety Note: Tailgate Closer

If you leave the tailgate partially latched, the automatic closer will finish pulling it shut within a few seconds. Keep the path clear during this time - the system has enough force to cause serious injuries including bone fractures if anything gets caught in the hinges.

Use caution when using the tailgate closer as it still operates when the power tailgate system is canceled.

Source: Page 142

Safety: Power Tailgate Operation

The power tailgate is convenient but powerful. Here's what to watch for to avoid serious injury:

  • Check the safety of the surrounding area to make sure there are no obstacles or anything that could cause any of your belongings to get caught.
  • If anyone is in the vicinity, make sure they are safely away from the tailgate so they will not be contacted by the tailgate or by cargo during opening and let them know that the tailgate is about to open or close.
  • If the power tailgate system is turned off while the tailgate is operating automatically, the automatic operation is stopped. The tailgate then has to be operated manually. Take extra care when on upward inclines, as the tailgate may open unexpectedly.
  • If the operating conditions of the power tailgate are no longer met, a buzzer may sound and the tailgate may stop opening or closing. The tailgate then has to be operated manually. Take extra care when on upward inclines, as the tailgate may open abruptly.
  • Do not apply a large load to the edge of the tailgate during the operation of the tailgate opening. Take extra care as the tailgate may open abruptly.
  • In the following situations, the power tailgate may detect an abnormality and automatic operation may be stopped. In this case, the tailgate has to be operated manually. Take extra care when on upward inclines, as the tailgate may open abruptly: When the tailgate contacts an obstacle; When the battery voltage suddenly drops, such as when the engine switch is turned to ON or the engine is started during automatic operation

Source: Page 142

WARNING - Jam Protection Function

Never use any part of your body to intentionally activate the jam protection function.

Source: Page 142

Operating Conditions​


The power tailgate works automatically when:

  1. When the power tailgate system is enabled (see Page 143 for enable/disable instructions)
  2. When the tailgate is unlocked - However, if the tailgate opener switch on the tailgate handle or the tail lamps is pressed while carrying the electronic key on your person, the power tailgate will be operated even if the tailgate is locked.
  3. Vehicle speed is below approximately 2 mph (3 km/h)

Source: Page 141

Opening the Power Tailgate​


Method 1: Wireless Remote Control (Key Fob)​


Press and hold the switch on the wireless remote control.

The power tailgate automatically opens.

To stop/reverse: Pressing the switch while the power tailgate is opening/closing reverses the operation. After two presses, the switch function stops.

Community feedback from established 4th Gen Tacoma forums confirms that remote fob operation is genuinely convenient when your hands are full loading or unloading cargo. This full-remote-operation capability differentiates the 4th Gen Tacoma from competitors.

Source: Pages 139-140, TacomaWorld Power Tailgate Discussion

Method 2: Interior Switch​


Press and hold the interior switch.

The power tailgate automatically opens.

Important: Unlock the tailgate before operating.

To stop/reverse: Pressing the switch while the power tailgate is opening/closing reverses the operation. After twice pressing the switch, the function stops.

Source: Pages 139-140

Method 3: Tailgate Opener Switch on Tail Lamps​


When the tailgate is unlocked: Press the tailgate opener switch.

When the tailgate is locked: While carrying the electronic key on your person, press the tailgate opener switch.

The power tailgate automatically opens.

To stop/reverse: Pressing the switch while the power tailgate is opening/closing reverses the operation. After two presses, the switch function stops.

The support cables will hold the tailgate horizontal when fully open.

According to 4th Gen Tacoma owner discussions, the tail light button positioning is ergonomic and easy to access while standing at the truck bed. Owners specifically praise this location as superior to alternatives like interior switches, making hands-full operation natural.

Source: Pages 139-140, 4th Gen Tacoma Forum and Tacoma4G.com

Method 4: Tailgate Opener Switch on Tailgate Handle​


The tailgate handle includes an opener switch that functions the same as the tail lamp switches.

Source: Page 139

Closing the Power Tailgate​


Using the Tailgate Opener Switch on Tail Lamps​


Press the switch.

The power tailgate automatically closes.

To stop/reverse: Pressing the switch while the power tailgate is opening/closing reverses operation. After two presses, the switch function stops.

Source: Page 140

Close Assist Feature​


Lift the tailgate from the full-open position to at least 0.8 in. (2 cm) using hands or knee.

The tailgate closing assist will be activated, and the power tailgate will fully close automatically.

Pro Tip: The close assist is convenient when you have your hands full - a quick knee lift against the tailgate is enough to trigger automatic closing. The 0.8-inch threshold is quite low and a gentle upward push triggers activation. According to 4th Gen Tacoma owner feedback, this is one of the most ergonomic power tailgate features, and most owners appreciate it after first use. The lightweight aluminum tailgate design of the 4th Gen Tacoma further enhances this ergonomic advantage.

Source: Page 140, TacomaWorld community discussions

Automatic Features​


Tailgate Closer​


In the event that the tailgate is left partially latched, the tailgate closer will automatically close it to the fully closed position.

Whether the engine is on or off, the tailgate closer operates.

Safety Note: This is a convenience feature that prevents accidentally leaving the tailgate partially open. However, it requires discipline about what is in the path. The several-second delay before activation gives you time to move away, but do not rely on this—ensure the path is clear before the feature engages.

Source: Page 140

Battery Saving Function​


When the engine switch is off and the tailgate is open for more than 8 hours, the close assist may not be activated.

If you unlock the doors, or open a door with the electronic key on you, the system will wake and close assist will activate.

Design Purpose: This is an intelligent design feature. If you are working on the truck bed for extended periods, the system will not drain the battery. Once you re-enter the cabin, it wakes up automatically.

Source: Page 140

Tailgate Opening Alert​


When the tailgate is left open, a warning message is displayed on the multi-information display.

Settings can be changed on the multi-information display:

  • Vehicles with 7-inch display: Select the "Alert" option
  • Vehicles with 12.3-inch display: Select "Settings" screen

Select the "Alert" option and change the settings. (See Page 635 for customization)

Recommendation: Keeping this enabled is valuable—it is a useful reminder, especially if you have walked away from the truck bed. Useful in low-light conditions or when dealing with multiple tasks.

Source: Page 140

Operation Indicators​


  • The emergency flashers flash twice to indicate that the tailgate is opening/closing.
  • While carrying the electronic key on your person, the tailgate can be operated when the other doors are locked.

Electronic Key Detection: RF detection is sensitive. If the key is deep in a bag or inside the vehicle, detection may fail. For reliable operation with a locked tailgate, keep the key in a pocket or hold it in your hand. Test this in your specific truck to understand its detection characteristics. According to 4th Gen owner community discussions, RF proximity detection for power operation with locked tailgate is consistent when you carry the electronic Smart Key on your person. Keep the key in a pocket or easily detectable location (not buried in a bag) for consistent detection across multiple trucks tested by owners.

Source: Page 141, 4th Gen Tacoma Forum discussions

Jam Protection Function​


The motor has detection function to detect jam as well as the sensors on each side of the tailgate. If something obstructs the power tailgate while it is closing, the tailgate will automatically stop.

After jam protection function operates, the power tailgate system is disabled. The power tailgate system is enabled when the tailgate is fully closed. (See Page 584 for reset procedure)

Critical Safety: Never intentionally test the jam protection with body parts. The system is designed to stop automatically—you should never deliberately put your hand or body part in the path. This is not a feature to test.

Source: Page 141

Manual Mode​


The power tailgate changes to manual mode under the following conditions:

  • Jam protection function operates
  • The power tailgate system is turned off on the multi-information display
  • When the power tailgate system has an internal failure

Manual Operation Benefits: When in manual mode, the tailgate can still be opened and closed by hand using normal tailgate operation. Unlike some power-latch systems where manual operation becomes difficult, the 4th Gen Tacoma can fall back to pure manual operation if power is lost. The hydraulic system still provides assist in manual mode, making manual operation easier than older mechanical-only designs.

Source: Page 141

Initializing the Power Tailgate​


After battery replacement or tailgate service, you'll need to reinitialize the system by manually closing the tailgate fully once.

Important: Remember this after battery replacement or any service work that involves disconnecting the tailgate. Simply close it fully by hand once to reinitialize the system. System must reset its reference point for the fully-closed position; manual closure tells the electronics where "fully closed" is located. Forgetting to manually close the tailgate fully after battery replacement means the system will not respond to power commands.

Source: Page 141

System Behavior Notes​


Cargo Considerations​


Cargo pushing on, or leaning on the tailgate may cause it to open quickly. Lift or reposition cargo to prevent this risk prior to operating the power tailgate.

Also, if you push down on the tailgate with more than 45kg (approximately 99 lbs) of force, the clutch in the spindle will slip and the tailgate will open more quickly than normal.

Technical Context: The 45 kg threshold is intentionally designed to be within normal cargo weight range. This is a safety feature protecting both the system and operator. Do not treat it as a limit to test—respect it as a design parameter that prevents system damage while you are loading.

Source: Page 141

Abnormality Detection​


When the power tailgate automatically opens, if an abnormality due to people or objects is detected, operation will stop.

Note: When the power button is pressed and you hear two beeps but the tailgate does not move, this indicates the system detected an obstruction, moisture issue, or safety condition. The tailgate can still be operated manually in this state, and the soft-close feature typically continues to function.

Source: Tacoma4G.com forum discussions

Operating on Inclines (Important Attention Required)​


Why Inclines Create Hazards​


Gravity Effects:

  • On Uphill Incline: Gravity assists tailgate opening (pulls downward), resists closing (pulls downward).
  • On Downhill Incline: Gravity assists tailgate opening (pulls downward), assists closing (pulls downward).
  • Safety Risk: If automatic operation stops while vehicle is on incline, tailgate may open unexpectedly due to gravity.

Safe Operation on Inclines​


Best Practice:

If possible, park on level ground before operating the tailgate. Avoid relying on automatic operation when parked on noticeable inclines.

If Parked on Uphill Incline:

  • Gravity pulls downward with full force.
  • If automatic operation fails, manual operation will be difficult.
  • Stand to the side of tailgate (never directly below).
  • Use caution with manual switch operation.

If Parked on Downhill Incline:

  • Tailgate may open more readily than on level ground.
  • If automatic operation stops, tailgate may swing open due to gravity.
  • Maintain clear perimeter around the tailgate.
  • Be prepared for unexpected motion.

Critical Habit: Never rely on automatic operation on inclines. Switch to manual operation if vehicle is obviously sloped.

Source: Page 141

Common Mistakes to Avoid​


Based on community feedback from 4th Gen Tacoma forums:

Rubber Stop Complications

The rubber stops between the tailgate and bed frame are manufactured oversized. Removing them to allow smooth full closure creates unwanted gaps and allows tailgate movement when closed. Modifying or removing stops can trigger sensor errors repeatedly and affect weatherproofing and cargo stability.

Source: 4GTaco.com

Operating After Car Wash or Heavy Rain

The power tailgate can malfunction intermittently after car washes or heavy rain. Water accumulates in connections beneath the hitch area. Allow extra drying time, and if issues occur, they typically clear up within a day or two. Wire harnesses located directly under the hitch accumulate water during rainy weather or car washes. Check connector areas periodically and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion and intermittent electrical failures.

Source: Tacoma4G.com

Not Checking for Debris Before Operating

The power tailgate sensors are very sensitive to contacting anything when opening or closing. Dust, debris, or even compressed seals can cause enough resistance to make the power function stop for "safety" reasons. This is actually an intentional jam-protection design, not a defect. The system stops operation when it detects unexpected contact to prevent crushing injuries and protect the hydraulic system.

Source: Tacoma4G.com

Forced Operation When Obstruction Detected

Forcing the tailgate to open when the system detects an obstacle can disable the power function temporarily. The system will only respond with beeping on subsequent attempts, requiring a full power-cycle reset to restore function.

Source: 4GTaco.com

Smart Key Proximity Security Awareness

If your electronic Smart Key is in range (5-10 feet), anyone can activate the power tailgate using the exterior buttons even if the truck is locked. In parking lots, this represents a security consideration if concerned about bed access when parked.

Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Forum

Hitch-Mounted Cargo Collision Risk

If you have a bike rack, cargo carrier, or hitch-mounted equipment, be aware that the tailgate opening could collide with these items without warning. The power system does not detect hitch-mounted cargo and will open fully regardless. Accidental tailgate opening can damage expensive cargo carriers, knock bikes into traffic, or cause injury to people standing behind the vehicle.

Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Forum

Helpful Community Context​


Unlike the Tundra, It Goes Both Ways

The 2024+ Tacoma power tailgate automatically opens AND closes (unlike the Tundra which only powers open). This full power operation in both directions is a feature many owners appreciate after coming from other trucks.

Source: 4thGenTacoma.com

Lightweight Aluminum Advantage

The 4th Gen Tacoma tailgate is aluminum, making it naturally lightweight. The power system adds genuine convenience without the weight penalty of steel. Combined with the knee-bump close assist, this is one of the most ergonomic tailgate implementations available.

Source: TacomaWorld Power Tailgate Discussion

Dealer Awareness and Active Problem-Solving

Toyota service technicians acknowledge the power tailgate represents a learning curve and that dealers are actively working on understanding and fixing reported issues. Do not hesitate to bring the truck in if DIY maintenance (gasket cleaning, dielectric grease) does not resolve problems.

Source: Tacoma4G.com

Specifications Summary​


SpecificationValueSource
Close assist threshold0.8 in. (2 cm)Page 140
Battery saving timeout8 hoursPage 140
Maximum operating speed2 mph (3 km/h)Page 141
Force threshold (clutch slip)45kg (approx. 99 lbs)Page 141
Smart Key detection rangeApproximately 5-10 feetPage 141

Reference Pages​


TopicPage
Power tailgate enable/disablePage 143
Jam protection resetPage 584
Customization settingsPage 635

Recommended Products​


  • Dielectric Grease - For connector protection (apply annually to power tailgate connectors and wire harness connections)
  • Silicone Spray - For friction points (lubricates the contact point between tailgate and tonneau cover if you experience sticking)

Source Attribution​


Owner's Manual Pages:

  • Primary operation procedures: Pages 139-141
  • Safety warnings: Page 142
  • Specifications: Pages 140-141
  • Enable/disable procedures: Page 143
  • System reset procedures: Page 584
  • Customization settings: Page 635

Community Sources:

  • TacomaWorld.com - 4th Gen Tacoma forums
  • Tacoma4G.com - Generation-specific forum
  • 4thGenTacoma.com - Owner community
  • 4GTaco.com - Technical support discussions

Disclaimer:

This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.

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