A tailgate is an essential component speaking of the pickup trucks. It protects the cargo from slipping outside when accelerating the pickup truck. While it protects the cargo on the truckbed, the modern pickup truck tailgates have various features and types.
From multi-flex tailgates to keeping heavy weight on the opened tailgates supported by strong cables, pickup truck tailgates have different types and functionalities. Let’s go through the details about a pickup truck tailgate and understand its types, features and functions.
What Is a Tailgate?
A tailgate is a hinged panel or gate located at the rear end of a pickup truck, positioned above the truck bed. It serves as a barrier between the truck bed and the external environment, providing security for cargo and passengers. Moreover, it offers convenient access to the bed for loading and unloading items.
Tailgates can be opened and closed, allowing easy access to the truck bed when needed and providing a closed-off space when transporting cargo. Additionally, tailgates often incorporate features. For instance, latches, handles and locking mechanisms enhance functionality and security.
Here are the types and features of the pickup truck tailgates.
Types of Tailgates on Pickup Trucks
When following the tips to buy pickup trucks in Dubai, you must check the truck’s cab and towing capacity. Besides, you must consider the type of tailgates on pickup trucks. The two main types of pickup truck tailgates include manual and electronic. While the manual requires the use of a hand to open or close the tailgate, the electronic tailgate opens with a single button click using a key fob.
Other than that, the pickup truck tailgates have the following types based on their functionality.
Traditional Tailgate
It is the standard tailgate on most pickup trucks. It’s a single piece that allows access to the truck bed. Older pickup truck models featured this type of tailgate.
Drop-down Tailgate
It is similar to the traditional pickup truck tailgates. However, one can lower and raise this tailgate easily due to mechanisms like counterbalance systems or hydraulic assistance.
Multi-Panel Tailgate
These tailgates consist of multiple panels that can be configured in different ways to provide easier access to the truck bed. For example, some panels may fold down while others remain upright, creating various load configurations. The GMC Multipro Tailgate is a prime example of a multi-panel, allowing enhanced flexibility and safety.
Barn Door Tailgate
Instead of a single piece that swings down, this type of tailgate consists of two doors that open horizontally, similar to barn doors. Pickup truck owners can open these doors independently, providing easier access to the truck bed in tight spaces.
Tailgate Step
Some pickup trucks come with built-in steps that fold out from the tailgate to climb in and out of the truck bed. These steps often include a handle for added stability.
Integrated Ramps
Some pickup truck tailgates feature ramps, which allow the loading of items such as ATVs, motorcycles or other wheeled vehicles directly into the truck bed.
Tailgate Assist
Tailgate assist systems use hydraulic or spring mechanisms to reduce the effort required to lower and raise the tailgate, preventing it from slamming down and providing smoother operation.
Powered Tailgate
High-end pickup trucks may offer powered tailgates that can be opened and closed with the button on a key fob or through controls in the truck’s cabin.
Features of a Pickup Truck Tailgates
Various features of tailgates on pickup trucks include the following:
Locking Mechanism
Many pickup tailgates have a locking mechanism that secures the tailgate in place to prevent the opening of the tailgate due to loose locks or hinges.
Lighting
Modern pickup tailgates may feature integrated LED lights that illuminate the truck bed, making it easier to see and access cargo in low-light conditions.
Tailgate Release
Pickup trucks have a release mechanism, often operated by a handle or button, to unlatch and lower the tailgate.
Rearview Camera
Higher trim levels or optional packages may include a rearview camera mounted on the tailgate to assist with backing up and manoeuvring, especially when towing.
Tailgate Appliqué
Some trucks offer decorative appliqués, badges or logos on the tailgate, showcasing the truck’s branding or trim level. For instance, the most popular used pickup trucks in the UAE have logos and badges representing the model and trims.
Tailgate Toolboxes
Some tailgates feature small pickup truck toolboxes. These toolboxes can be added to the truck using aftermarket options.
FAQs
What is the difference between a pickup truck liftgate and a tailgate?
The tailgates are a feature of pickup trucks and small commercial vehicles. Meanwhile, the liftgates are mostly found on station wagons and SUV car body types. Besides, one can add an aftermarket pickup truck liftgate.
Why do some pickup trucks drive with the tailgate down?
Some drivers drive with an open tailgate to improve fuel efficiency. However, the car aerodynamics study shows that a closed tailgate is better for proper airflow.
These were all the details about pickup truck tailgates. Their features and types depend upon the car’s makes and models. You can explore the list of used cars for sale in the UAE and find the pickup truck with the features you need.
Keep reading the dubizzle Cars blog to understand more about various automobile features and systems.
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