Best Truck Tailgate Lock – Buyer Guide and Reviews
Is your truck tailgate secure? Most tailgates tend to get damaged due to day to day use, and in the process, making it an easy target for thieves to gain access to the truck bed and access your valuable cargo. This will only happen if you don’t have a tailgate lock. But if you can get the best truck tailgate lock, then there will be nothing to worry about as it will lock your tailgate secure while you are traveling. You will be safe and secure from the prying eyes of the thieves.
Having a tailgate lock especially if you have a tonneau cover, is necessary. There are a variety of tailgate locks which you can pick from on the market. Most of the locks which are economical will work with a key, but both the manual and electrical locks for the tailgate will be able to offer your truck tailgate with security that is tight.
Comparison Of Truck Tailgate Lock
Truck Tailgate Lock Reviews
1. Pop & Lock Tailgate For Honda Ridgeline
This is a one-button tailgate security lock which you can enjoy its convenience to lock your Honda Ridgeline. Locking and unlocking your tailgate from the comfort of your truck will be easy with this lock just the same way the locking and unlocking the door of your truck.
If you decide to purchase it, it will be mounted in the tailgate of your truck permanently and will connect using simple lock and push connectors that are on the door lock power system of your truck. It will lock your doors and tailgate of your truck automatically by the use of the push button.
With this tailgate lock, you will be assured that your cargo together with your tailgate is safe from being stolen. It works well with caps, toppers, lids, and truck bed covers.
Pros
1. It is mounted permanently in your truck’s tailgate
2. It locks the doors and tailgates permanently
3. It will add convenience
4. It is a one-button tailgate security lock
5. It works together with your power door locks and the key knob.
Cons
1. It doesn’t have any instructions enclosed
2. It is not durable
2. Pop & Lock Power Tailgate Lock PL8140 For Chevy And GMC
If you are a proud owner of a GMC or Chevy, then you can use this pop and lock power tailgate. It is going to protect your vehicle’s tailgate together with the content in your truck bed from being taken away by thieves. To replace your truck bed tailgate is a big cost as compared to purchasing a lock to protect it.
This lock is a great complement to the truck cap, canopy, tonneau cover, or camper shell. It is easy to install and it will give your truck a look similar to its factory look. There is both a manual and a powerful solution for this lock and thus, you will be sorted when you purchase it.
Pros
1. It is a power lock
2. It has a tamperproof design
3. No drilling required during installation
4. It locks automatically when the power doors lock
5. It is classic full size
6. It works with or without a backup camera
Cons
1. Works only for trucks
3. Pop & Lock Power Tailgate PL8535
It might be that you are looking for a lock for your Toyota Tundra to be able to prevent thieves from stealing your cargo or tailgate, and this could be the one for you. It is a lock which is powered and wires into the lock of the doors of your car power meaning, whenever your truck is locked, the tailgate locks automatically.
I think it could be the best lock for the tailgate for the Toyota Tundra due to the fact that its handle is able to provide security for whatever you are carrying inside your truck bed. When you use it, it is able to create storage which is very secure when you use it in combination with the tonneau cover or camper shell.
It unlocks and locks using a keyless from a remote location as it works in conjunction with the power lock system from factory and thus, you don’t require to have an extra key to operate it. It is constructed from stainless steel and thus, corrosion resistant.
This particular lock is customized to integrate into your OEM handle of the tailgate and fit into your Toyota Tundra well. Temperating is sorted out as it is able to mount into the mechanism of the factory handle that is already there.
For the installation, it is an easy task as all you will require to do is to wire it into the lock system which is already present in your car with the help of splice connectors. There is no welding required. When you purchase it, you will find in the package the quick spices, hardware, and wiring. The manufacturer gives it a one year warranty.
Pros
1. It has a one year warranty
2. It is easy to install
3. No drilling or welding required
4. Unlocks and locks with the use of remote keyless
5. It mounts into the existing mechanism of the factory handle
Cons
1. It has a loud locking mechanism
2. Its instructions are not clear
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4. SaBellCo Toyota Tacoma Tailgate Lock 2005-2015
This tailgate lock might just be what you need for your Toyota Tacoma tailgate. It will be able to prevent your tailgate from being stolen. It offers dual protection as it doesn’t allow the device from being bypassed or tricked.
It protects the paint which is between the locking device and the hinges. With its powder coating, you are assured of a long lasting and durable performance. This particular lock can be used with various fasteners including Allen, security, coded and one-way screws.
It does not clamp on as it completely ensures that the hinge cup is encapsulated to prevent the tailgate from being removed by especially thieves. When you are installing it, there will be no alterations to your truck and thus, your manufacturer’s warranty will not be voided.
Constructed from the aluminum 6061 T6, with V2.0 added clearance, it gives the hinge a heavier weld. It has a semi-simple operation and installation. By design the installation will take the shortest time possible through the hinge then it rotates to the lock position which then encapsulates the whole hinge.
Once you have installed it and secured in a locking position, it will ensure that your tailgate is secure from being removed. Its design which is sleek giving it a factory installation look.
Pros
1. Gives the truck a sleek design
2. It will protect the tailgate from being stolen
3. It is made in the USA
4. Installation instructions and video included
5. It gives your truck dual protection
Cons
1. Instructions not clear
2. It only fits Tacoma 2005 – 2015 trucks
5. Original Factory Tailgate Handle Bolt 5922987
I bought this particular tailgate handle lock for my truck and it took me the shortest time to install it. It works well as a single key unit and I am sure it should be one of the locks you should be considering to purchase if it is compatible with your vehicle.
If you own a Silverado or GMC Sierra, then this could just lock your tailgate. It has a bolt lock cylinder. You will replace your factory handle with the locking handle on the truck’s tailgate to prevent theft
.When you are locking, you will have to use the ignition key of the Chevrolet Silverado which means, you will be having the right key all the time. For you to be able to lock, you will have to insert the ignition key into the bolt cylinder and turn it once and immediately, the lock is permanently coded into your car key. Picking and bumping are prevented through the 6 plate-tumbler sidebars which are present
Its construction is weatherproof and quality meaning, you will have nothing to worry about no matter the weather situation. It is constructed from cast zinc cylinder which is superior corrosion resistance while dirt and moisture are kept away due to the presence of the locking shutter made from stainless steel.
When you remove the key from the ignition, the lock is able to shut automatically. When you purchase it, you will be able to get in the package a factory placement handle, a latch, and a frame which has a bolt cylinder lock. When you are doing the installation, you will use the hardware which is existing. It is crowned by a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
It is a unit which fits and works like OEM and thus, it will give your truck a sleek look. If you are looking for a tailgate lock, this should be one of them. combined with a tonneau cover, it will work well for you. The main thing that makes me just love it is due to the single key feature. If your original didn’t have a lock, you will just have to unhook the old hatch and then go ahead and hook this one in
Pros
1. You will permanently code the lock to your car key
2. Picking and bumping is prevented by the presence of a 6 plate-tumbler sidebar
3. It has a limited lifetime warranty
4. Cast zinc cylinder offers its superior corrosion resistance
5. It locks automatically when you remove the ignition key
Cons
1. Doesn’t fit Sierra or Silverado editions
2. Not easy to unlock
6. Pop & Lock Tailgate Lock For Nissan Titan PL8400
When it comes to installation, if you decide to purchase this tailgate lock, then it is an easy thing. You will not have to struggle, wasting a lot of time. The only thing that I found wrong with it is that the installation instructions are not very clear.
The wires are located in the sidekick plate of the passenger’s seat in a white box of plastic, which runs along the door on the passenger’s side. Once you open the box, you will get several clips. Look for the purple wire which is thick and solid. Attach the blue wire from the connector side using the clips which are provided.
Look for the green wire with the stripe that is yellow and attach the green wire from the connector using the clip which is provided. The clips have to be opened well and after you close them, ensure that you use pliers to form a connection which is solid. The installation is smooth and at the end, it will give your Nissan Titan a tailgate lock which will protect your tailgate and cargo from being stolen while you are on the move.
Pros
1. Easy to install
2. It will protect your cargo and tailgate from being stolen
3. It has a one year warranty
4. Good value for money
5. It is durable
Cons
1. Instructions not clear
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7. Pop & Lock Tailgate Lock For Nissan Frontier PL8450
If you are out there looking for security for your Nissan Frontier tailgate, then this lock could work for you. It is a lock which is custom made to be able to fit the contours of the handle and thus, ensuring maximum security of the bed of your truck and earning you peace while you are on the move or when you pack your vehicle outside the mall to go and shop.
You can choose between the powered or manual tailgate. If the manual lock is your option, then you will have to choose between the black or chrome finish to be able to give your truck a complementing finish.
The lock is constructed from steel which is armored which is normally very heavy duty and able to resist any tampering and thus, offer you a very long service. Unlike some locks which you will require to weld or drill in order to install, this one doesn’t involve that and you can attach it in the shortest time possible.
It will leave your truck with an OEM look and thus, leaving you satisfied. It is backed with a one year warranty from the manufacturer against workmanship and material defects.
Pros
1. No modifications on the truck
2. It has a one year warranty
3. It comes in manual and power options
4. It will give you maximum cargo security
5. The armored steel gives it a long-lasting construction
Cons
1. If the rivet that holds the silver bar comes out, it becomes useless.
8. Bully Integrated OEM Tailgate LH-007WD fits Ram Pickup
You must have a Dodge truck for you to purchase this particular tailgate. If not, don’t purchase it because it will not work. It will give your truck a factory look. It is manufactured from high impact plastic together with a lock that is metal and hardware which might last you for some time.
It features durable, solid aluminum construction meaning, it will be strong enough to secure your tailgate. It comes with a 90 days warranty and you should remember that it cannot be keyed to match your vehicle keys and thus, you will have to carry its key always.
This lock is likely going to work for you and secure your tailgate so long as you have a Dodge truck and it will give you value for your money.
Pros
1. It has durable high impact plastic with metal lock and hardware
2. Fits Dodge models alone
3. It is easy to install with no drilling or cutting
4. It will lock the tailgate securely into place
5. Good value for money
Cons
1. For dodge models and doesn’t work for any other models
9. McGard Tailgate Lock 76029 fits Ford F150/250/350
If you are a person who uses your truck bed quite often, then this could be the tailgate lock which is designed specifically for you. To open or close your tailgate, you will not have to remove the lock. There is no need for keys or handles to lock or unlock.
Installation is easy and quick with no modifications or drilling needed. It is strong, lightweight, and made from stainless steel and polycarbonate materials. This could be your answer for simple and effective tailgate security.
It has a hex size square drive of ¼ an inch and you can leave it in place without it having to cause any obstruction to the other functions of the tailgate. It comes with a one year manufacturer’s limited warranty together with a complete installation manual. To crown it all, it is made in the USA.
Pros
1. It is fast and easy to install
2. It is made in the USA
3. It has a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer
4. You will get it in black color
Cons
1. It doesn’t provide maximum protection
2. It doesn’t fit on all types of trucks
How Does A Tailgate Latch Work?
The latch of a tailgate is made of eight pieces. There is the mechanism of the rotating latch, the latch handle, two-panel latches on either side, two rods, the latches recesses on each side. The related components can be accessed from the inside of the tailgate handle. You will have to remove the large panel and the screws. The nuts of the handle will be seen easily behind the latch assembly which is rotating. When you lift the handle, it will push down on the latch which is rotating, and in turn, it will be able to pull on the rods which are running to the panel latches on the outside.
Adding A Lock To Our Truck’s Tailgate: Why Is It Necessary?
Due to the fact that there is a new trend in vehicle theft where tailgates are targeted, there is a need for putting a lock on it. Initially, tailgates were designed in such a way that, it is easy for you to be able to remove it when you don’t need it. That has made thieves start targeting them since they know that, they are valuable.
Because there is a lot of damage caused by tailgates, there is a high demand for them in the market. And since it is one of the many car accessories of the truck’s rear bodyworks, they tend to be vulnerable to harm because of collision at the end of the rear when the load is overweight. It is becoming expensive to do regular replacement of tailgates especially the ones with modern technology that come with a camera which is integrated.
The fact that tailgates can be removed using no tools or a little if any, that is the reason why thieves are targeting it while you are on the move. But with a lock for the tailgate, you will be in a position to combat the theft. All you have to do is to make sure that, the lock you buy for your tailgate is high quality.
At the moment, the new full-size truck tailgates which are in the market, are in a position to lock. But for a small truck or mid-sized one, there are those which have the locks while others do not have it. In case you have a tailgate which doesn’t have a system for locking, then you will have to go an extra mile and add security by buying an aftermarket lock handle that is readily available for the trucks that modern trucks.
When a thief sees a lock on the tailgate, it will make them shy away from the tailgate. But at times you might forget to put the tailgate lock always with most of the tailgate locks from the factory tend not to be able to connect to the e truck’s central locking system.
So even if the truck tailgate is lockable using a press on a button, your tailgate might still be vulnerable to thieves. When you get an aftermarket lock system, it will be able to provide extra security beyond the lock of the tailgate with the contents which are on your truck’s bed.
If you are currently shopping for a tailgate, it is best that you ensure you prevent the theft from happening to you so that, you don’t incur an extra cost of having to replace it.
How Long Does A Cylinder Tailgate Lock Last?
SUVs tend to be available in different sizes and shapes but one thing common with them is that they have a tailgate at the rear. You might call it a rear door or hatch but it means the same thing.
Trucks have tailgates too although they will only be secure if you accompany them with a tonneau cover or camper shell that secures them. Just like other doors on your vehicle, a tailgate needs to be protected using a lock, meaning that, it has to have a lock cylinder. That is the place where you will be able to slot the key in to be able to unlock the tailgate manually.
In any lock, there are two parts to it: the lock cylinder and the key. Both of them play an integral role in being able to unlock and lock the mechanism. If either of them has a problem, it could make the lock unable to open.
The cylinder of your tailgate lock does not do much work and you will only have to use it manually to unlock and lock the tailgate. It is located outside the vehicle and that means that it will be exposed to elements. There is a possibility that rain might get into the cylinder through the hole of the key. Dust and freezing temperature can also cause problems with the operation of the mechanism.
For the cylinder of the tailgate lock to last for a long time, you will need to maintain it vigilantly by cleaning it to prevent rust from forming and clean dust which could otherwise accumulate on its inner workings. Apart from that, there are other problems which can happen with your lock.
In case your rear tangs which are on the lock break, then the cylinder will spin in place whenever you try opening the tailgate. In case the cylinder is seized you might find it hard to insert the key into the lock for unlocking. Key being damaged can also keep you from locking and unlocking.
To know that you need to replace the lock on your tailgate, here are the symptoms:
◆ The partial turning of the cylinder
◆ Key doesn’t entirely insert all the way
◆ The cylinder spins freely, turning around completely
◆ You will hear some rattling from the cylinder lock when you drive around
Conclusion
Locking is important for security and safety purpose. This also applies to the tailgate lock for the truck. You will need to have a high-quality tailgate lock to make it possible for your cargo in the truck bed to be safe. During unloading and loading, the tailgate which is a hinged board or door at the vehicle’s rear can be moved up and down and you require it on your hatchback vehicle or pickup.
There is a need to protect your tailgate via locking it safely to avoid it from being stolen. There is an increase in tailgate theft due to high demand on the same making thieves to have a ready market. You will have to protect yourself by ensuring that, you get one of the best truck tailgate locks.
I found the Pop & Lock Tailgate lock for Nissan Titan PL8400 to be the best due to the fact that it is easy to install, protects the cargo and tailgate from being stolen, it has a one year warranty, it is a good value for money and on the overall, it is durable.
