2020 Ford F150 Tailgate Replacement – DIY Step-By-Step For A Factory
Replacing a damaged or stolen tailgate on your 2020 F-150 is a straightforward project that can save you hundreds in professional labor costs. This guide covers everything from disconnecting the backup camera wiring to choosing between an OEM shell or a complete used assembly.
Do you look at your truck and see a dented, dragging, or missing tailgate that ruins the clean lines of your Ford? We have all been there, whether it was a backing accident, a heavy load that shifted, or a late-night theft that left you with an empty bed.
The good news is that performing a 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement is a task any truck owner can handle with basic tools and a bit of patience. You do not need a degree in automotive engineering to restore your truck’s utility and aesthetic appeal.
In this guide, I will walk you through the entire process, from sourcing the right parts to the final alignment checks. We will ensure your backup camera works perfectly and your latch clicks shut with that satisfying factory sound.
Why You Might Need a 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement
The tailgate is one of the most abused parts of any pickup truck, serving as a workbench, a seat, and a structural barrier for cargo. Over time, the hinge pivots can wear down, or the internal latching mechanism can fail due to dust and debris buildup.
Structural damage is the most common reason for a full swap, as aluminum body panels on the 2020 model are notoriously difficult to “pull” or repair once they are creased. If your tailgate has been buckled by a heavy trailer tongue or a shifting pallet, a replacement is often more cost-effective than a body shop repair.
Theft is another unfortunate reality for F-150 owners, as these components are valuable on the secondary market. If you are starting from scratch because your original unit was stolen, you will need to pay close attention to the wiring harness and mounting hardware that may have been damaged during the theft.
Assessing the Damage: Repair vs. Replace
Before you go out and buy a new unit, take a close look at the latches and the handle assembly. If the tailgate is structurally sound but won’t open, you might just need a new actuator or a simple lubrication of the rods.
However, if the frame of the tailgate is twisted, it will never seal correctly against the bed sides. A twisted frame leads to water leaks, rattles, and eventually, failure of the striker bolts, making a full replacement the only safe option.
Sourcing the Right Parts for Your F-150
When sourcing your 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement, you’ll find several options ranging from bare shells to fully loaded assemblies. It is vital to know your truck’s trim level, as an XL tailgate is much simpler than a King Ranch or Platinum version.
A “loaded” tailgate includes the handle, backup camera, torsion bar, and internal wiring. If you buy a bare shell, you will have to transfer all these components from your old unit, which adds significant time to the project.
- OEM New: The most expensive option but guaranteed to fit and usually comes in primer, requiring a trip to the paint shop.
- Used/Salvage: A great way to find a “color-matched” unit that saves you the cost of painting, though you must inspect for hidden rust or dents.
- Aftermarket: Often cheaper, but fitment can be hit-or-miss, and the metal gauge may be thinner than the original Ford specification.
Understanding the Integrated Tailgate Step
One of the biggest variables in the 2020 model year is the integrated tailgate step. If your truck has this feature, the internal structure of the tailgate is completely different from the standard version.
You cannot easily “add” a step to a non-step tailgate shell without extensive modification. Always verify that the replacement part matches your specific utility needs, especially if you rely on that step for daily bed access.
Tools and Preparation for the Swap
You do not need a massive rolling tool chest for this job, but having the right hand tools will prevent stripped bolts and frustrated knuckles. Most of the fasteners on the 2020 F-150 are metric, so keep your socket set handy.
- Socket Set: Specifically 8mm, 10mm, and 13mm sockets for the hinges and strikers.
- Torx Bits: A T-25 and T-30 bit are often required for the access panel and handle screws.
- Trim Removal Tool: Useful for popping out the plastic wiring harness clips without breaking them.
- A Helper: Tailgates are awkward and surprisingly heavy; having a friend to hold one side prevents scratches on your bed paint.
Safety should always be your first priority when working on your vehicle. Ensure the truck is parked on level ground and the parking brake is engaged before you begin working around the rear of the vehicle.
Protecting Your Paint
Before you start unbolting things, lay down some painter’s tape along the edges of the rear fenders. It is incredibly easy to bump the corner of the tailgate against the bed while you are lifting it off the hinges.
I also recommend placing a moving blanket or a piece of thick cardboard on the ground. If you accidentally drop the tailgate or need to set it down quickly, the blanket will save the finish from concrete scratches.
Step-by-Step Removal Process
The first step in a 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement is disconnecting the electronic “brain” of the unit. On the 2020 model, the wiring harness connector is located underneath the truck, near the spare tire.
Reach up behind the bumper and locate the large electrical connector. Depress the locking tab and pull the plug apart; you may need to remove a small plastic dust cap if your truck is equipped with one.
Disconnecting the Support Cables
Open the tailgate fully and support it with your knee or have your helper hold it. Locate the support cables on both sides and slide the metal retaining clip upward to release them from the bed bolts.
Gently lower the tailgate a few inches further. Be careful not to let it drop, as the cables are no longer holding the weight, and you could put undue stress on the hinge points.
Lifting Off the Hinges
The F-150 uses a “lift-off” hinge system on the passenger side. Angle the tailgate to approximately 45 degrees—this is the “sweet spot” where the slotted hinge aligns with the pivot point.
Lift the right side of the tailgate up and away from the truck. Once the right side is free, slide the entire unit to the right to pull the left side off its fixed pivot pin. Now, walk the unit back to your moving blanket.
Installing Your New 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement
Now that the old unit is out of the way, it is time to prep the new one. If you are using a salvage yard find, check the wiring harness for any pinches or cuts that might have happened during removal.
If you are transferring your old backup camera and handle to a new shell, do that now while the tailgate is lying flat on your workbench. It is much easier to route the wires through the bottom access hole before the unit is mounted on the truck.
Mounting the New Assembly
With your helper, carry the new tailgate to the rear of the truck. Insert the left side (the round hole) onto the fixed pivot pin first. This side acts as your anchor and helps you balance the weight.
Next, align the right side slotted hinge at that same 45-degree angle you used during removal. Lower it onto the pivot and ensure it is fully seated. Test the swing motion to make sure it moves freely without grinding.
Connecting Cables and Electronics
Reattach the support cables by sliding the clips over the bed bolts. You should hear a distinct “click” when they lock into place. Give them a firm tug to ensure they won’t pop off when you drop the tailgate later.
Feed the wiring harness through the hole in the bed floor and crawl back under the bumper. Plug the harness back into the main vehicle connector. This is the moment of truth for your rear-view camera and remote locking features.
Final Adjustments and Testing
Once the hardware is installed, close the tailgate slowly. Check the gap tolerances on both the left and right sides. If one side is higher than the other, you may need to loosen the hinge bolts on the bed and nudge them slightly.
The striker bolts (the pins on the bed that the latches grab) are also adjustable. If the tailgate rattles while driving, or if you have to slam it to get it to lock, loosen the strikers with a socket and move them inward or outward as needed.
Testing the Tech
Hop into the cab and shift the truck into reverse. Verify that the camera feed is clear and that the alignment lines are centered. If the image is upside down, you likely installed the camera module 180 degrees out of position in the handle.
Test the remote release using your key fob. The 2020 F-150 has a damped tailgate that should drop slowly and smoothly. If it drops like a rock, your torsion bar or dampening strut may not be engaged correctly.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To prevent needing another 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement in the future, perform basic maintenance twice a year. Use a lithium grease or a dry silicone spray on the pivot hinges to prevent friction wear.
Check the drain holes at the bottom of the tailgate. If these get clogged with dirt or mulch, water will sit inside the shell and cause internal corrosion, even on aluminum models, as the steel hardware can cause galvanic corrosion.
Finally, consider installing a tailgate lock or a secondary security plate. These simple devices make it much harder for thieves to lift the tailgate off the hinges in the 45-degree position, protecting your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement
Can I install a 2021+ tailgate on my 2020 F-150?
While the physical dimensions are very similar, the body lines and the electrical connectors changed significantly with the 2021 redesign. It is not a “plug-and-play” swap and would require custom wiring and bodywork to look correct.
How much does a replacement tailgate weigh?
A standard aluminum tailgate for a 2020 F-150 weighs about 40-50 pounds. However, models equipped with the integrated step can weigh closer to 70-80 pounds, making a helper almost mandatory for installation.
Will my backup camera need recalibration?
In most cases, if you use the original camera or an identical OEM replacement, the truck will recognize it immediately. However, if the alignment lines are significantly off, you may need a dealership or a scan tool like FORScan to run a camera calibration routine.
Is it safe to drive without a tailgate?
Yes, it is legally safe in most jurisdictions, provided your license plate and rear lighting are still visible. However, be aware that your bed’s structural rigidity is slightly reduced, and your fuel economy may actually decrease due to changed aerodynamics.
Conclusion: Get Your Truck Back in Action
Taking on a 2020 ford f150 tailgate replacement is a rewarding DIY project that restores both the look and the functionality of your pickup. By following these steps, you ensure that the job is done safely and that all the high-tech features of your Ford continue to work as intended.
Remember to take your time with the wiring harness and always use a helper when lifting the assembly. A little bit of grease on the hinges and a quick adjustment of the strikers will make your new tailgate feel better than the day it left the factory.
Don’t let a damaged rear end hold you back from your next off-road adventure or job site task. Grab your tools, follow the steps, and stay safe and stay comfortable while you get your F-150 back in top shape!
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