97 F150
Now all of a sudden the lock on the tailgate does not want to work. It's not frozen up. The key slides in but will not turn at all. I hauled a load of gravel a while back and wonder if a rock could have gotten inside but don't see how. Any ideas? Is this a common problem?
Thanks and Happy Holidays

 

I had the same problem on my 2000. Are you sure it isn't frozen up? Just because you can put the key in doesn't mean it's not frozen.

I bought some Lock-Eze (sp?) and sprayed some in there and also on my key. That worked for me. You can pick it up pretty much anywhere. have you tried this yet?

 

Thanks jk007
It is warmer today and I'll try the key again.
I don't think I have any Lock-Eze but I'll look for some.

 

Take the access panel of and check to make sure there is no problem from the back.

 

Yep. Take off the access panel (torx screws) and check the linkage for an obstruction (rock) or those threaded plastic clips come loose once in a while. Lube everything up while you're at it

 

Thanks. I'll have a few days off so I'll look at it then.

 

Lock is working now. I removed the access panel on the tail gate but did not see anything wrong. Worked the key in the lock when the tailgate was down and I guess maybe a piece of sand or something dislodged from the lock because it started to work. Oiled up the linkages and lubed the lock with graphite. Also got rid of the annoying squeak in the linkages.

 

Good to hear. And thanks for posting how you solved the problem.