RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

Tailgate not releasing-sometimes

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Old 07-05-23, 01:51 AM
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warspite
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Default Tailgate not releasing-sometimes

Occasionally the button over the number plate will not operate the electric boot lock, if I then try and operate the electric tailgate from the key fob, it seems the motor is trying to lift, but the latch hasn't released. Thumping the tailgate eventfully seems to get it working, so I am presuming bad connection. Does any one have a link for a wiring diagram for the tailgate area, also there are three rubber tubes taking wire from the body to the tailgate, any idea which of these would carry my weak link. Thank you.
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SJM (07-05-23)
Old 07-05-23, 09:20 AM
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cfh13427
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Originally Posted by warspite
Occasionally the button over the number plate will not operate the electric boot lock, if I then try and operate the electric tailgate from the key fob, it seems the motor is trying to lift, but the latch hasn't released. Thumping the tailgate eventfully seems to get it working, so I am presuming bad connection. Does any one have a link for a wiring diagram for the tailgate area, also there are three rubber tubes taking wire from the body to the tailgate, any idea which of these would carry my weak link. Thank you.
Hi, Try cleaning the rubber seal and the metal portion of liftgate that comes in contact with the liftgate seal.
If the seal surface gets Sticky, then the liftgate will try to lift up, but it won't!
It's a Very Common Problem, just a Suggestion, Give it a Try.
Good Luck
Old 07-07-23, 12:16 AM
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DennisMik
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When you do get the tailgate open, will it stay open or will it close by itself? If it does close by itself, you my need new struts for the tailgate.
Old 07-08-23, 03:16 AM
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warspite
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Originally Posted by DennisMik
When you do get the tailgate open, will it stay open or will it close by itself? If it does close by itself, you my need new struts for the tailgate.
Struts are fine, when the catch releases the motor lifts it fine, and closes it fine. Its either a catch motor problem, or one of the wire to the tailgate breaking up. Trouble if there are so many wires in three rubber tubes from the body, so which ones are for the lock.
Old 07-08-23, 11:06 AM
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DennisMik
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Here is a link to a thread where the op could not open their boot/tailgate at all. It was a bad latch mechanism, but maybe it will help you.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-rx-350-a.html

In your situation, maybe you have electrical connections with corrosion that need to be cleaned.

Here is the wiring diagram for the boot/tailgate.
Attached Files

Last edited by DennisMik; 07-08-23 at 11:14 AM. Reason: added wiring diagram
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Old 07-08-23, 01:59 PM
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warspite
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Many thanks, that's what I needed, I'm on hols in France at the moment, and the lock has been behaving for the last couple of days, but with that wiring diagram when I get home I can do some simple tests to see if it is the motor or the wiring.
Old 07-08-23, 02:11 PM
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Margate330
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Originally Posted by warspite
Occasionally the button over the number plate will not operate the electric boot lock, if I then try and operate the electric tailgate from the key fob, it seems the motor is trying to lift, but the latch hasn't released. Thumping the tailgate eventfully seems to get it working, so I am presuming bad connection. Does any one have a link for a wiring diagram for the tailgate area, also there are three rubber tubes taking wire from the body to the tailgate, any idea which of these would carry my weak link. Thank you.
Hi Warspite1,

I see you are a long time member and your first post!

Welcome to Club Lexus!
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