Introduction
This guide is for a 2007 GMC Envoy with a jammed tailgate. One of the most common reasons for a stuck tailgate is a bent or warped latch bracket. This guide will show how to un-jam and open the tailgate to replace the latch bracket.
For the sake of clarity, here is an explanation of terms that will be used often throughout the instructions:
- Tailgate: the back portion of the car that opens (often referred to as the trunk)
- Latch bracket: the metal arch/upside down ‘u’ shaped piece fixed to your car that the tailgate latches onto. (see step 5 for a photo)
Lowering the back seat of the Envoy will give adequate space to perform this repair.
Once you have visual access to the bracket, inspect it for damage. If there is none visible, simply clean the rust and corrosion to see if this eliminates the problem. If not, you will need to install a new latch bracket, which requires a special Torx screwdriver.
Tools
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Use the flat head screwdriver to pry off the small round access panel on the interior of the tailgate.
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Look through the opening and stick your flat head screwdriver underneath this metal arm.
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Force the arm up. It should stay raised when you pull the screwdriver out.
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Use the flat head screwdriver to push this second lever to the right as far as it will go or until it clicks.
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Inspect the latch bracket's horizontal and vertical bars for dents, warping, and corrosion.
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If there are no physical defects visible, clean any rust and corrosion and test the tailgate. If it still jams, repeat Steps 1-4 and move on to Step 6.
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Use the 40 Torx screwdriver to remove the two T40 63.5 mm screws that secure the latch bracket.
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Remove the latch from the vehicle.
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To reassemble your device, follow these steps in reverse order.
