I’ve got a 2017 Lariat super crew. I was annoyed to find that the tailgate latch is electric, rather than a mechanical pull handle that can help open the gate when the latch is a bit sticky. I bigger annoyance is the fact that in inclement weather, the reversing camera is virtually useless. The rain/slush/snow/mud will coat the lens and render it blind. I just got a Volkswagen and they likewise have an electric latch on the rear hatch. This one is clever; it integrates the latch switch and the reverse camera into/under the big chrome logo in the middle of the hatch. Said logo is about as big around as the height of the blue oval in the middle of the tailgate.

Ford could possibly save a penny or 2 by incorporating the latch switch into the blue oval, NOT have that big bezel/handle near the top of the tailgate and hide the camera under the tailgate to keep it clean/simple, tilting it out (as VW does) when the vehicle is put into reverse to deploy the camera. I’d try it myself, but I totally suck at bodywork and painting, but I’d sure be interested to see if a talented forum member could make it work.

 

Oh-kayyyyy...but why? Makes no sense to fawk with what has worked for literally millions of trucks.

 

What happens when that flip-open logo gets frozen shut, or gets crammed with slush and stuck open? That's always been a problem with moving exterior accessories in winter weather. One more unnecessary gadget to pay for, and break.

I find a little Rain-x on my cameras (while I'm doing the same to my side mirrors) keeps them pretty clear, and a shot of white lithium grease on the latches and hinges once a year keeps them from sticking.

 

I like the electric tailgate... makes opening it super easy from my dash or fob or keypad. You can switch to a manual style... not sure why you would want that but hey VW people are different

 

I can't open mine from the dash... as far as I know. I have to use the fob, keypad or tailgate button.