It’s that time of year again. The weather is getting nicer, the sun is out and everyone is ready to hit the open road. But before you can start driving, there’s one little task that needs to be completed: opening your tailgate. For some people, this may seem like a simple task—after all, it’s just a handle. But for others, it can be a bit of a pain in the ass due to a broken handle. If you find yourself in this predicament, don’t worry; we have some tips on how to open your tailgate with a broken handle. ###
What You’ll Need
In order to open your tailgate with a broken handle, you’ll need the following items:
-A pair of pliers
-A screwdriver
-An Allen wrench
-A piece of metal wire or a coat hanger
-Tape measure
– sturdy chair or table to kneeling position
-Superglue (optional)
1. Remove the broken handle from the door by using pliers. Beware of sharp edges on the inside of the tailgate. If necessary, use a screwdriver to pry off the damaged piece. Be sure to remove any screws that hold it in place.
2. With the help of an Allen wrench, remove the screws that secure the tailgate hinge to either side of the door frame. You may also need to use a hammer if they are stubbornly stuck. Once all screws are removed, carefully lift up and away from door frame. Be careful not to damage hinges or latches in process.
3. Measure and cut a piece of metal wire about 1 inch long and slightly wider than broken hinge pinhole (or use a coat hanger if no wire is available). Bend one end slightly so that it forms a “U” shape resembling an open hand grip (see photo). Glue this grip onto one side of hinge just above where pinhole is located (see photo). Allow glue to dry completely before replacing hinge assembly back into location and reattaching screws (
How to Open the Tailgate
If you find that the tailgate on your car is not opening any longer, it might be time to take it to a mechanic for repairs or replacement. There are a few different techniques that you can use to open the tailgate on your car if the handle breaks.
The first option is to use the emergency release button. This is located on the inside of the door near the hinges. Push down on this button and pull up on the handle to open the door. You should also keep in mind that this button will only work if the car is in park.
If you don’t have access to an emergency release button, you can try using a keyhole technique. Place one hand against the window next to the door and insert your other hand into the keyhole beneath it. Turn the handle counterclockwise with your fingers and pull up on it until it pops out of its socket. Then turn it back clockwise and pull down on it until it clicks into place again.
If neither of these techniques work, then you will need to replace the tailgate handle. There are many different options available online and at hardware stores, so be sure to search for one that best suit your needs.
Tips for Opening a Tailgate With a Broken Handle
There are a few tips for opening a tailgate with a broken handle. If the handle is off of the hinge, you can use a screwdriver to pry it off. If the handle is attached to the hinge, you can use a wrench to turn it until it comes loose. Be very careful not to break the plastic piece that holds the hinge together. You can also use a chisel or saw to cut away at the hinge until it comes loose.
Conclusion
If you find that your tailgate handle is broken, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. You may need to replace the whole assembly, or you may be able to just replace the handle. In either case, follow these steps to get your tailgate back up and running as quickly and safely as possible: