I bought a 2021 Ford F150 XL last week. The tailgate does not lock with key fob (the four doors do lock/unlock with the fob). There is not a key slot to manually lock the tailgate. Anyone had this issue? And, is there a solution to make it operable?

 

I have the same truck. No issues on mine. Have you checked the wiring connection for the tailgate? It's about mid way, under the bottom of the tailgate. Maybe somebody just unplugged it to remove the tailgate. Then I'd check the fuse box. Not sure which fuse it is but there's one for it. Might be that simple. Good luck.

 

I wish it was that simple. Just left the local Ford dealership. They said it was manufactured without a lock, and there are no solutions.

 

Sure there is, add a lock.

 

When I took delivery of a new 23' XL the tailgate did not lock. The dealer had to add a missing wiring harness , under warranty of course.

Good luck!

 

Sounds like a Tech. response not a real Mechanic response. It is likely upgrade able. Here is a photo of my 23 STX tailgate. It has 8 machine screws that hold the tailgate cover on, below that is likely the electronic switch, solenoid that activates the lock clasp in the hole near the cable connector. There is probably a wiring connection from the electronic switch, solenoid to a connector near the bottom of the tailgate on the underside of the bed. Surely the higher end trim models for this year have this locking tailgate feature?

 

Yeah, my 2021 XL has a locking tailgate. It would be super easy to add it. Check local junk yards you may get lucky and be able to get parts that way.

 

Amazon has them.
or if you like the nolube option.

Ford. dealership