Will Manually Closing an Electric Tailgate Cause Damage?
2 Answers
Occasionally manually closing an electric tailgate will not cause immediate damage, but it can lead to wear and tear on internal components such as the motor, gears, and telescoping parts, thereby reducing the lifespan of the electric tailgate. There are three common ways to operate an electric tailgate: 1. Tailgate switch: Use the open/close button located on the tailgate itself. 2. Hands-free/sensor-based opening: Place your hand or any object in the designated sensor area to automatically open the tailgate, which is useful when your hands are full and you cannot use the key fob or manual operation. 3. Dashboard tailgate switch: Press the tailgate open/close button on the vehicle's dashboard to operate the tailgate.
Manually closing an electric tailgate can indeed cause damage. Based on my experience in automotive repairs, the motor system is designed for electric operation, and forcing it closed manually can overload the mechanism. It's like making a robot perform movements it's not accustomed to—over time, gears may wear out, sensors could malfunction, and even wiring might burn out. In car enthusiast groups, I've seen complaints about electric tailgate failures, and upon inquiry, it often turns out to be due to frequent manual operation. Most manufacturer manuals recommend using only the button controls to prevent long-term damage. Occasionally doing it in an emergency might be fine, but avoid making it a habit; regularly cleaning the tailgate tracks can also reduce risks. In short, it's better to be cautious—using the electric mode more often helps protect the hardware's lifespan.
