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Popping (electric) Tailgate

Buelltours

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Cornel
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Hendersonville, NC
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2023 F150 Lightning XLT SR
Hi there! I have posted this on another forum, but didn't get much feedback...
Here's the thing with my 23 XLT SR (which I LOVE - it's the best car I ever had): Just right before closing the tailgate, there is a loud "pop" sound. I read that there were issues with torsion bars, but since my truck is still under warranty, I went to the local dealer with this issue. They diagnosed and concluded that I need a new tailgate under warranty. An unpainted new tailgate would be shipped to them (currently on backlog, I am tailgate number 456 in line - it could take months I guess) , then it gets painted antimatter blue at a local paint shop (really??) and installed.
To me, this sounds absolutely insane. But then I am new to Ford warranty service. I do have a Mustang, but it never needed warranty work so far. I would appreciate if anyone could tell me that this is normal Ford behavior?
On a different note. When depressing the brake pedal, there is a slight resistance at first. No matter if truck is on or off. I asked the same dealer if there may be a problem as I never experienced other than smooth brake pedal engagement on my other cars. They told me that it is normal on the Lightning. Not sure why brake engagement would be different on an electric truck?
I'm just not sure my local dealer is on target with my issues? Thanks for your opinion! Picture for attention ;-)
Ford F-150 Lightning Popping (electric) Tailgate IMG_9749
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bc1

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2025 Ford f150 Lightning Flash
Where does it come from? Listen to see if it comes from either the left or right side latch pin that sticks out. I might have an idea there. (But maybe not on one that's been around for a few years) (If so, go inside and turn off the tailgate assist and hold the tailgate close to the latch pins to see how close they are to the edge of the tailgate latch opening on the side of the noise.) Or listen to see if it comes from the hinge areas. Does it make any extra noise when opening?
 
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