Sponsored

Tailgate ajar warning with fast acceleration

BriyGuyUSA

Member
First Name
Glyn
Joined
Jun 15, 2025
Threads
2
Messages
22
Reaction score
18
Vehicles
2023 Lariat ER
Hi all,

just picked up my Lightning this week. Ford certified used 2023 with about 6 months of the initial warranty left.

First EV vehicle I have had so have been enjoying the fast acceleration occasionally but have noticed when I take off fast that I get “Tailgate Ajar” warning and a chime for a second which then goes away. I’ll obviously be taking this back to the dealership to get fixed soon but wondered if this is a known issue? I’m assuming it’s just a loose sensor that moves when I take off fast. Anyone seen this before?

loving this truck - wish I had got one years ago!!
Sponsored

 

RickLightning

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 17, 2022
Threads
92
Messages
5,929
Reaction score
7,975
Location
SE MI
Vehicles
'22 Lightning ER Lariat,'22 Mach-E Premium 4X
Not a known issue. Make sure your tailgate is closed.
 

chl

Well-known member
First Name
CHRIS
Joined
Dec 16, 2022
Threads
6
Messages
1,781
Reaction score
1,043
Location
alexandria virginia
Vehicles
2001 FORD RANGER, 2023 F-150 LIGHTNING
That only happens when you hit "ludicrous speed" level and the tailgate gets left behind in the wormhole opened at the front of the truck. Check the dash image for more information:

Ford F-150 Lightning Tailgate ajar warning with fast acceleration SpaceBalls-speeds
 
OP
OP

BriyGuyUSA

Member
First Name
Glyn
Joined
Jun 15, 2025
Threads
2
Messages
22
Reaction score
18
Vehicles
2023 Lariat ER
Love it!!!
 
  • Like
Reactions: chl

glean

Member
First Name
Jacob
Joined
Dec 3, 2023
Threads
0
Messages
14
Reaction score
7
Location
Massachusetts
Vehicles
2023 F-150 Lightning Lariat
Happens regularly to me. It seems like something is loose with the tailgate mechanism.
 
  • Like
Reactions: chl

Sponsored

chl

Well-known member
First Name
CHRIS
Joined
Dec 16, 2022
Threads
6
Messages
1,781
Reaction score
1,043
Location
alexandria virginia
Vehicles
2001 FORD RANGER, 2023 F-150 LIGHTNING
Happens regularly to me. It seems like something is loose with the tailgate mechanism.
That would get annoying, not knowing if your gate is really closed securely, esp when carrying stuff back there...I think "3 years bumper to bumper" should include the tailgate?
 

glean

Member
First Name
Jacob
Joined
Dec 3, 2023
Threads
0
Messages
14
Reaction score
7
Location
Massachusetts
Vehicles
2023 F-150 Lightning Lariat
That would get annoying, not knowing if your gate is really closed securely, esp when carrying stuff back there...I think "3 years bumper to bumper" should include the tailgate?
Yeah LOL. If I wanted to lose my truck and get a loaner for a month. The dealers here are slow AF.

I'll probably see if I can fix it, then wait until I absolutely have to take it in.
 
  • Like
Reactions: chl

chl

Well-known member
First Name
CHRIS
Joined
Dec 16, 2022
Threads
6
Messages
1,781
Reaction score
1,043
Location
alexandria virginia
Vehicles
2001 FORD RANGER, 2023 F-150 LIGHTNING
It does sound like a loose or misaligned switch/contactor or wire on the sensor wherever it's located, left or right or both latches I suppose.

If you find it, post a pic for future reference for the rest of us!

AI says this (kind of a duh!) and has a video:




Troubleshooting:
If the light stays on even when the tailgate is closed, it could indicate a problem with the sensor, latch mechanism, or a wiring issue. Some users have reported issues with the warning light after replacing parts like the latch actuator or handle.

  • Possible causes:
      • Faulty sensor: The sensor itself might be malfunctioning and not correctly detecting the tailgate's position.
  • Latch mechanism issues: The latch might not be engaging properly or could be damaged.
  • Wiring problems: There could be a break or loose connection in the wiring harness that connects the sensor to the vehicle's electrical system.
  • Software glitches: In some cases, software updates or glitches can cause the warning light to trigger incorrectly.

Recommendations:
    • Check the tailgate: Make sure the tailgate is fully closed and latched securely.
  • Consult your owner's manual: Refer to your vehicle's manual for specific information about the tailgate warning system and troubleshooting steps.
  • Seek professional help: If the problem persists, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue
Sponsored

 
 







Top