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Hello. I'm replacing my XLT tailgate that doesn't have remote release with a used tailgate that does. (The reason for the upgrade is to get the flex step. The used tailgate just happens to have remote release.)
The wiring harness on the new tailgate has a plug that is not present on the old tailgate. I assume it's the remote release circuit but defer the collective wisdom on this forum to confirm that.
The truck side of the harness has two sockets that are not used. One is gray, the other is black. Both appear to be capped with blank plugs. As the plug on the tailgate is black, I surmise that it goes in the black socket.
Pictures are below. Can someone confirm that the plug on the tailgate goes into the socket on the truck? Out of curiousity, what is the unused gray connector? Is it related to power lift?
Edit: what is the cloth tape around the end of the larger plug? Both the old and the replacement plugs have it, so it must be OEM, but it's loose and not doing much like keeping it clean or keeping it plug together.
Also, do I need to do anything with FORScan related to the fact the XLT currently doesn't remote release? I have the exterior keypad and should be able to open the tailgate with the #5 button.
1. Extra plug on tailgate wiring harness
2. End view of extra plug on tailgate harness
3. Unused sockets on truck side of tailgate wiring harness.
Last edited by spammagnet; Sep 5, 2025 at 03:54 PM.
tailgate wiring harness help
