Tail Gate won’t open

[nilsb14]

Our T6 California Ocean is just out of warranty and has an issue where the tail gate wont open when you pull the handle when it’s unlocked. It generally works after several tries but I’m guessing it’s an issue that needs to go back to the dealer for. Anyone come across this and have found a solution?

 

[yossarian]

Does yours feel like a switch or a mechanical lever when you pull it? If a switch then replacing the switch part will likely sort it out.

 

[nilsb14]

Does yours feel like a switch or a mechanical lever when you pull it? If a switch then replacing the switch part will likely sort it out.

Yes, feels like a switch

 

[yossarian]

Yes, feels like a switch

A common mode of failure of a switch is oxidation of the contacts due often to inactivity. You might exercise the switch, try a reputable switch cleaner (I'd use a 3M product or similar) or, because failure of this part is likely to ruin your holiday, consider a replacement part professionally fitted some time before you need the vehicle.

The most likely point of failure is the actual switch.

Also perhaps consider fitting a manual release while you can still open the tailgate. There are some directions on this forum.

With a manual release you can still get the tailgate open which might be a holiday saver...

{edit}
Replacing the part near to an actual holiday is not recommended as the actual replacement increases the short term chance of failure.

 

[Ch1pbutty]

Try some of this. Replaced our led brakelight this weekend which had fallen apart. One of the pins from the old assembly had snapped off / rusted into the connector onthe van wiring loom. Pulled the old pin out with plyers, sprayed some of this on and used a pin to clean inside the connector...5 mins later all was good.

WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner

A non-conductive spray that is suitable for use on all sensitive electrical components. It provides excellent cleaning with minimal fuss, and removes dirt, dust, condensation and flux residue with ease. Simply spray on and allow the product to dry before powering up. The WD-40 fast drying...

www.toolstation.com